Support Aamir's Recovery Fund

Dear friends and cherished community,

I am Aamir Subhan, a devoted social worker and psychotherapist based in Toronto. Today, I come to you with a mixture of vulnerability and hope, sharing a chapter of my life that took an unforeseen and distressing turn. As I recount the events that unfolded, I also wish to convey the profound impact this incident has left on me.

Before I delve into the incident itself, allow me to offer you a glimpse into who I am and the life I led prior to this unfortunate event. Through my psychotherapy practice, I focused on assisting Muslim, queer, and racialized folks navigating diverse challenges. Concurrently, my community organization efforts revolved around advocating for underserved populations, including those affected by HIV, while highlighting and exploring the crucial connection between sexual and mental health in the wellbeing of queer communities. My practice was built upon the core principles of empathy, understanding, and providing a safe haven for those who needed it most.

During the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic, like countless colleagues, I found myself on the frontlines. From dedicated COVID wards to ICUs and emergency departments, I worked tirelessly in some of Ontario's most deeply affected communities – Brampton, Scarborough, and Toronto. In these communities, my heart and soul were invested, as I offered care and compassion to those who needed it most.

Beyond my professional commitments, I also stood as a rock of support for my family. The care I coordinated for my elderly father and the strength I offered to my mother were essential parts of my daily life. My moments of joy were simple yet treasured – from hopping between cafes and bakeries to sharing in meals, dancing the night away with peers, and finding solace in my faith. These moments of lightness fuelled my determination to serve my community with unwavering love and dedication.

But the evening of July 2nd, 2023, marked a turning point. Walking alongside two friends near Bathurst and Harbord Street in Toronto, I encountered a young man seeking help with his taxi fare. Moved by the desire to offer assistance, I handed over my debit card for payment. What transpired next was beyond comprehension.

As I attempted to complete the transaction, it became evident that the card inserted into the machine was not mine. When I pointed this out, confusion arose on the drivers part. I leaned into the front passenger window to show the driver what I meant, and in that moment my world abruptly shifted. The car surged forward, catching me off guard. Reflexively, I held on to the window to steady myself.

The driver sped recklessly for nearly two blocks, my body hanging precariously from the window, exposed to the dangers of the rushing traffic as he swerved back and forth attempting to throw me off. My pleas to stop were met with anger and vitriol. Eventually, the driver voiced his decision to crush me, he veered to the right, side-swiping a parked vehicle, my body crushed between the two before being thrown onto the road. Heartlessly, the driver sped away, leaving me injured and abandoned.

This harrowing incident has shattered me both physically and emotionally. Multiple fractures to my pelvis have severely impacted my mobility and strength. The physical pain, though daunting, pales in comparison to the emotional wounds. In the aftermath of the assault, I find myself unable to work, uncertain of my future, and struggling to cope.

In this moment of vulnerability, I turn to you – my community – for support. The weight of bills, rent, basic necessities, and healthcare expenses has become overwhelming. I reach out not only to aid in my recovery but to also regain a sense of security in a world that has become increasingly uncertain. Your contribution to this fundraiser, no matter its size, holds the power to make an immense difference in my path to healing and restoration.

While it is humbling to ask for support, I know that community is the lifeline that carries us through our darkest hours. Your kindness, compassion, and generosity will not only uplift me but will also serve as a reminder that we are never truly alone in our journey.

As someone who has dedicated their life to standing in solidarity with others, this moment of asking for help is an exercise in vulnerability. Yet, I believe that the strength of community can light the way through even the darkest nights. Your care will be a beacon of hope during this time of loss.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider offering your support. Every dollar, every message of encouragement, bears testament to the unbreakable strength that community provides. With your compassion, I dare to envision that this moment of adversity can evolve into an opportunity for profound growth and healing.

With heartfelt gratitude and unwavering hope,

Aamir Subhan