Aid Project Launched for Assyrian Bus Bombing Victims
Chicago -- The Iraqi Christian Relief Council (ICR Council) has started a worldwide campaign called Faith, Hope, Endurance to raise $15,000 for medical needs of 60 students in Baghdeda, Iraq.
On May 2, 2010, over 200 Christian students were targets of two massive explosions. Militants attacked four buses carrying Mosul University students traveling from Hamdaniya in the Province of Dohok, Northern Iraq. Sandy Shabib and Radeef Al Aahruk were killed as a result of the blasts. Shattered glass left over 150 students drenched in blood and scarred. Many of them lost their eyes and limbs in this attack.
Our source in Baghdeda, Dohok, Iraq reports that Radeef sacrificed his life to save others': "As he sensed the danger of the attack, he ran out of a shop he was at and waved the buses to slow down and not to approach a bomb-filled vehicle." Our source adds: "If it weren't for Radeef's bravery and selflessness, the number of casualties would be monumental. He is our modern day Christian martyr."
Currently, there are close to 60 families who are unable to provide medication for their child who has been affected by this horrendous attack. The cost of medication is approximately $150 per month per student. The Iraqi Christian Relief Council has decided to initiate the Faith, Hope, Endurance campaign to help lift the burden off of the families' shoulders. The donations will be forwarded to the Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), established in 1991.
When asked what the greatest needs are, we were told there is an immediate need for plastic surgeons who would like to dedicate their time and perform plastic surgery on the students who have sustained horrific injuries to their face and upper body. When asked about their morale, our sources disclosed that the students are heart-broken and are not sure how to start picking up the pieces to rebuild their futures.
To help with the Iraqi Christian Relief Council efforts and to donate, please visit our website at www.iraqichristianrelief.org.
www.iraqichristianrelief.org