13-year-old Filipina battles life-threatening disease, parents seek help amid mounting bills

UAE

 In the heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), amidst the Eid festivities, lies a poignant story of resilience and perseverance. Fatima Pancho Lobaton, a 13-year-old Filipina, fights a life-threatening autoimmune disease with unwavering courage, supported by her foster parents, despite the mounting financial burdens they face.

Fatima's journey is one marked by challenges from a young age. Abandoned by her birth mother as an infant, she found solace and love in the arms of her second foster parents, Syed Ali Moazzam and Muozzama Batool. Despite their financial strain, compounded by the absence of Fatima's residency visa and health insurance, they stand as pillars of strength for her.

The onset of her illness coincided with Ramadan, a time of reflection and spiritual growth for many Muslims. Fatima began experiencing symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, skin rashes, and joint pain. These seemingly innocuous signs soon escalated into a life-threatening condition, diagnosed as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease attacking her organs and tissues.

As Fatima lies intubated in her hospital bed, her foster parents face the daunting reality of soaring medical bills. Without the safety net of health insurance, every treatment and procedure adds to their financial burden. Yet, amidst their struggles, they continue to fight for Fatima's life, appealing to the kindness of strangers for support and prayers.

Fatima's story is not merely one of illness and financial hardship but also of resilience and hope. Despite the adversity she has faced, she remains steadfast in her dreams and aspirations. A devout Muslim, she embraced the teachings of Ramadan from a young age, fasting and practicing her faith with dedication.

Her foster parents recount her unwavering spirit, her love for learning, and her passion for arts and music. Despite the abandonment she endured as a child, Fatima harbors no resentment towards her birth mother, instead choosing to focus on building a better future for herself and others.

The narrative of Fatima's life is a reminder of the importance of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity. It calls upon us to extend a helping hand to those in need, to offer support and prayers in times of crisis. In a world often marred by division and strife, Fatima's story serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter and more compassionate future.

As Fatima continues her fight for survival, let us rally together in support of her and others like her, offering whatever assistance we can provide. Let us stand united in the face of adversity, drawing strength from Fatima's resilience and determination. For in our collective compassion lies the power to overcome even the greatest of challenges, and to forge a future defined by empathy and solidarity.