A young Syrian refugee is fighting the struggles of immigration while being stuck in a body years beyond him.
Only 7 years of age, Mohammed has the appearance of an old man. The boy suffers from a rare, fatal genetic condition called progeria that affects one in 20 million children, causing premature ageing. His family fled Syria to Turkey, but during their voyage the paperwork detailing his medical condition was lost.
Without passports, the family is unable to take Mohammed out of the country for medical treatment he needs.
When a video of Mohammed gained attention around the world, donations and help from volunteers and organizations such as the International Association for Relief and Development have enabled them to cover some living costs.
The man who is set to be the United Kingdom’s first Muslim astronaut, Hussain Manawer, heard Mohammed’s story and dedicated efforts toward helping him. He recognizes that refugees like Mohammed are in a critical condition, and not only need to be acknowledged but need help—from the screen to reality.
“Don’t let this feeling that you’re having when you see a boy like Mohammed last for a few hours and then dissolve,” Manawer said. “They need us.”
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Fair Observer’s editorial policy.
Photo Credit: RinoCdZ
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