World Life Institute thankful with progress for 10-year-old battling several health challenges
Photo by Ginny Kropf: (Left) Miriam Ajrond and her son Ahmed Cherif are pictured at the World Life Institute prior to a “Leaves of Summer” concert last Saturday featuring The Voice Gavel Club from Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Miriam brought Ahmed to America, with aid from Project Life, an initiative administered by World Life Institute, to seek medical attention for multiple health problems. (Provided photo – Right) Ahmed Cherif lays in the bubble on the play gym at the YMCA during a recent fundraiser for his medical care. He overlooks the gymnasium floor, where numerous activities were set up for adults and children.
MEDINA – When Miriam Ajrond brought her son Ahmed Cherif to America, he was suffering from multiple major health problems. They were brought here by World Life Institute hoping the medical attention he needed would be available here.
Since then, World Life Institute’s Project Life has provided funds for his ongoing medical care.
When Ahmed, age 10, arrived here from Tunisa in January 1924, he weighed 35 pounds club feet, intellectual disability, severe digestive problems and a rare genetic condition. He also is on the autism spectrum.
Since then, he has seen significant growth, thanks to ongoing treatment from a dedicated team of doctors, specialists and therapists. Over the past two years he has gained more than 11 pounds, grown nearly 2.5 inches and continues to make daily strides at the Aspire Center for Learning in Buffalo, where he receives occupational, speech, physical and vision therapy. His mother has also made incredible progress, growing more independent and active engaging in Ahmed’s care in their new life in Medina.
Deborah Wilson, Project Life’s deputy director and finance manager, talked about a recent fundraiser for Ahmed at the YMCA in Medina.
“The fundraiser was not just about raising money, it was about rallying around a family who continues to face extraordinary challenges with grace and determination,” Wilson said. “Every dollar raised goes directly toward essential services for Ahmed and his mother Miriam, including a monthly food, clothing and shelter allowance, transportation to multiple medical appointments, medications and home health supplies, educational resources and supplies and more.”
The Family “FUNraiser” focused on family friendly activities, including paint on canvas sessions for adults and children; face painting; henna art; and a bargain boutique. By popular demand, there was a bake sale and an international food section, which sold out at last year’s fundraiser.
During the afternoon, Project Life did a presentation on their decades-long history of involvement with international war orphans and children with rare health conditions.
Those who could not attend the fundraiser, but would like to donate to Ahmed’s care can donate directly to Project Life. Click here for more information or reach out to Shareefah Sabur at (216) 496-2986.
