Nur Shakila is a single mother from Medan, raising two children with autism on her own. She is also grieving the loss of her husband, who passed away from colon cancer. It is the kind of loss that reshaped her family overnight.
Since his passing, her children have struggled to express their grief in the only ways they know how. Their behaviour reflects pain they cannot yet put into words, and caring for them through this has taken a heavy toll on her.
Nur Shakila shared openly about her struggles. Financial strain
is constant. Emotional support is almost nonexistent. She has no close relatives or trusted friends to turn to.
And when we gently asked her about her fears, she said something that stayed with us.
She worries that if something were to happen to her, no one would know.
That her children who are already vulnerable, might be separated and left without each other.
Naʿudhu billah.
This is the kind of fear no mother should have to carry alone.
As we left her home, we made duʿa that Allah Almighty eases her burden, surrounds her with care, and sends sustenance and support from places she does not expect. And we share her story in that same spirit.
This Ramadan, community support can
be more than assistance.
It can be reassurance. Presence.
And relief for a heart that has been holding on for too long.
May Allah subhanahu
wa ta’ala unburden Nur Shakila, protect her children, and place Barakah in every form of support extended to families like hers. Amin.
Thank you for reading, for reflecting, and for being part of a community that responds with mercy.
