electronicIraq.net

Direct Aid Initiative
Umm Ali

Staff, Direct Aid Initiative

Aug 17, 2007

Umm Ali, 57, is an Iraqi refugee living in Jordan. She is the mother of six children. Four of her children live with her in Jordan. One of her sons has been resettled to America, having fled under the regime of Saddam Hussein following a roundup of suspected dissidents in 1995. Her other son lived with her in Jordan until he was arrested by security forces, held for nearly a month, and deported to Syria. Another son living with her in Jordan was recently detained by Jordanian police, but was released before being deported following extensive advocacy by DAI team members and other friends in Jordan.

In May of 2007, DAI provided funds for Umm Ali to undergo uterine surgery to address a chronic condition, and for follow-up medication during her recovery. She was in the hospital for four days and continued to take medicine for several weeks after the surgery. She reports that she is now healthy, and that the surgery was successful.

Umm Ali's family reports that they have received clearance for resettlement to the United States. DAI will maintain contact with the family throughout their transition to support any needs that arise.

*Note: Names have been changed and images omitted at the family's request.