Within the walls of the kindergarten, Rania Ahmed found refuge and joy. Her work as a service worker at the kindergarten was more than just a job; it was a mission she cherished. She enjoyed seeing the smiles on the faces of young children. But when she faced an unexpected challenge, she realized that life is full of surprises, and that change is an integral part of it. With her strong faith, love for life, and her family, she decided to face her challenge with strength and determination.
In Ramadan of 2020, the story began with a small lump in her breast. It didn’t seem serious at first, but her sister’s insistence and awareness of the importance of early detection prompted her to undergo medical tests. The psychological shock was great when the doctor told her husband that she had cancer. She recounts this moment, saying, “My husband told me, based on the doctor’s words, that I had a malignant tumor. I was completely unaware of what he was saying, as if the world had turned upside down and I was about to lose everything I loved.”
Rania’s confrontation with the disease was difficult. Chemotherapy was a recurring nightmare for her, as she feared its painful and debilitating side effects. Her fear of the surgery, especially given the health conditions in Yemen, only exacerbated her suffering. But thanks to God and the support of the Hadramout Cancer Foundation volunteers, Rania found the hope and psychological support she needed to continue on her path. Their constant visits and words of encouragement fueled her positive energy and reminded her that she was not alone in this battle.
Rania’s suffering was not limited to her health; it extended to all aspects of her life. The disease left its mark on her role as a mother, wife, and working woman. She found it difficult to perform even the simplest household tasks and felt lonely and helpless. However, thanks to the support of her family and husband, she was able to overcome this difficult phase. As Rania says, “During this period, I felt lonely, my body was weak, and my hair was falling out. But with the support of the foundation’s volunteers, my family, and my husband, I was able to overcome it.” She says of her husband: “My husband was my primary supporter and backer. He cooked for me and my children, did the housework, and was always keen to provide me with healthy food despite his difficult economic situation.”
After months of suffering and challenges, Rania began to show signs of recovery. She found refuge and strength in prayer, seeking forgiveness, and supplication. With every prayer, she would implore God to heal and restore her. Her firm faith in God Almighty was the motivation that propelled her forward. With each improvement in her health, she gradually returned to her daily life. She found joy and peace in working at the nursery, and she overcame her malignant disease.
Rania realized the importance of making the most of her time and developing herself after recovering, thanks to God. She began learning handicrafts such as making accessories and resin, and discovered a new passion. She decided to share this talent with her colleague, opening a store together called “Sahala Accessories and Resin Store.” She chose the name “Sahala” as part of her gratitude to the foundation’s most prominent volunteer, Sahala Bahidra, who supported her during her illness. This project was not just a source of additional income; it was a way for her to express herself and unleash her creativity. She also didn’t forget her social duty, joining the Hadhramout Cancer Foundation Volunteers Association, where she helps other patients and provides them with psychological and moral support whenever she can. Rania says, “Cancer was a difficult test, but I succeeded in passing it thanks to God and the support of my loved ones. I learned that life is short and that we should enjoy every moment of it. Illness doesn’t mean the end of life, but rather a new beginning. Don’t despair in life. Just hold on to God’s rope, and He will make every difficulty easy for you.” Regarding her outlook on life after experiencing the disease, she adheres to the words of God Almighty: “But perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And God knows, while you do not know.” She affirms that the disease did not change her outlook on life, but rather increased her faith that all of God’s decrees are good. Rania not only overcame her illness, but also turned her experience into a source of inspiration for others. Through her small business—Sahala Accessories and Resin Store—and her volunteer work, she has proven that suffering can be the beginning of a new journey filled with creativity and giving. Her story invites us all to be a source of light and hope for those around us.
We should also not forget the support of family, friends, and the community, which played a significant role in Rania’s recovery. Her story reminds us of the importance of solidarity and cooperation, and that we all need each other to face life’s challenges. Let us all be like Rania and extend a helping hand to those in need.