The Story Behind the Name

ABDULLAH AID


On 27th October 2014, my beloved son, Abdullah, entered this world, Alhamdulillah. Like any other parent, I was filled with hopes and dreams for his future. However, by the time he was three months old, we noticed he wasn’t bearing weight on his legs or lifting his head on his own. Concerned, we sought medical advice and were referred to various paediatricians and specialists. The waiting period felt endless, and while we tried to stay positive, deep down, we knew something wasn’t right.

As Abdullah grew older, his symptoms became more pronounced. He was diagnosed with hypotonia, and further tests were scheduled, including MRI scans and other medical evaluations. The initial results were inconclusive, but eventually, we were referred to Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. There, a neuromuscular specialist confirmed our worst fears: Abdullah had SMA Type 1, a severe and life-limiting condition with no known cure.

The news was devastating. We were told that Abdullah would never walk, crawl, sit, or even hold his head up. Over time, he would lose the ability to swallow and breathe independently. The shock and heartbreak were indescribable. Despite our grief, we resolved to do everything in our power to support him. We explored treatment options, but his fragile condition made travel risky.

At nearly seven months old, Abdullah was hospitalised with pneumonia. Watching our son struggle to breathe in intensive care was a harrowing experience. Yet, despite his challenges, Abdullah showed remarkable resilience—fighting through infections and hospital admissions with a smile that belied his suffering.

Caring for Abdullah was a profound lesson in patience, gratitude, and the fragility of life. He required constant care and medical support, but his presence brought immeasurable joy and strength to me. During this journey, I found solace in my faith, praying more regularly and increasing my charity, seeking comfort in Allah’s wisdom.

On 5th December 2015, Abdullah’s fight came to an end. He returned to his Creator, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and compassion. Abdullah is now in the care of Allah’s friend, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), enjoying the gardens of Jannah.

During this heartbreaking time, I found myself asking:

Why? Why did Allah choose me for this test?

Why? Why was I given a son so precious, only to have him taken away in the blink of an eye?

But in my sorrow, I found a renewed purpose. I asked myself:

What have I done to please my Creator?

How have I worked towards my Jannah?

Life is short. Allah, who has given me life and showered me with countless blessings, deserves my utmost gratitude. In this realization, I knew I had to honour His gifts by dedicating my life to helping others.

Abdullah’s story is a testament to the power of faith, the importance of community, and the impact of compassion.Through Abdullah Aid, we strive to honour his memory by making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.

Please keep Abdullah in your prayers and remember…

Allah took my son away, but He replaced that loss with something deeply meaningful and rewarding.

His life was like a beautiful, fleeting dream—one I will cherish forever, until we meet again in Jannah, Insha’Allah.

Shakil Malji

CEO & Founder of Abdullah Aid