Q: Can you share a bit about your journey to discovering Dar-us-Sakina and how you first learned about the organization?

A: I was searching for a Muslim support system for my daughter when I came across Dar-us-Sakina through our masjid's website. They were looking for interns, and I decided to enroll my daughter. After the first semester, I learned more about the various programs they offer, and TAP turned out to be a perfect fit for her. Alhamdulillah, she’s now in her second semester, and I’ve noticed such a positive change in her. She’s excited to go each week, which is not typical for her as she’s usually very introverted.

Q: What is your child’s diagnosis? What was your initial reaction and experience when your child was diagnosed, and how did you find support during that time?

A: My daughter’s initial diagnoses were failure to thrive, delayed development both physically and mentally, and hearing impairment. She was very sick from birth—she was born early at just 3lbs 5oz. Within two months, she developed reflux, and at three months, she sustained a head injury. Things were difficult, and her diagnoses came gradually. Honestly, I felt numb; I was just trying to manage each situation as it came. She was tube-fed until she was six, which was her only source of nutrition.

One thing I did was try everything I could to help her thrive. I was told she wouldn’t be able to sit, but with Allah’s blessings and extensive physical therapy, she started sitting at three years old. Doctors said she would never eat normally, but her feeding tube was removed at six. Walking came at five. Unfortunately, I had no support system outside of my husband and kids. Even her physician once told me to focus on my three healthy children, but we never gave up. Alhamdulillah, with Allah’s blessings, we defied every expectation and proved her doctors wrong.

Q: Can you describe the specific programs or services at Dar-us-Sakina that have had the most significant impact on your child and family?

A: She’s currently in TAP, and she’s genuinely happy with her progress. Previously, she interned at Pearland’s Sunday School through Dar-us-Sakina, and that was a great experience for her as well.

Q: How has your journey with your child’s deafness shaped your understanding of communication and connection?

A: My daughter is 29 now, and we’ve tried everything to help her live as normal a life as possible. As her mother, I’ve always been her advocate since she couldn’t advocate for herself. We ensured she had extensive speech therapy to build her language skills, and she learned sign language for proper communication. Our family made a big effort to communicate with her verbally, which helped her develop her speech, Alhamdulillah. Though she completed her associate degree in American Sign Language and Interpretation (ASLI), she also speaks very well.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a parent, and how has Dar-us-Sakina supported you in overcoming them?

A: Basmah is still fairly new to Dar-us-Sakina as a student, but she’s already learning so many things that are often overlooked. Things we might think are too simple for kids with disabilities to understand. Every time she leaves class, she’s eager to tell me what she learned, and that enthusiasm is priceless. I’m also grateful for the intern who’s become a close personal friend to her. It’s the first time she’s shared anything outside of her family, and that’s a big deal. Alhamdulillah, I’m so grateful for everyone who has supported us on this journey.

Q: What advice would you give to other parents who are just starting their special needs journey?

A: Understand your child’s needs and emotions, and always be their best advocate. Don’t believe everything professionals say—trust your instincts. Whatever Allah has destined for you and your child will happen, so put your trust in Him and do your best. Approach everything with a positive mindset, and everything else will fall into place, Insha’Allah.

This heartfelt interview reminds us of the strength it takes to advocate for our children and the blessings that come from perseverance and community support. Dar-us-Sakina is proud to be a part of journeys like these, empowering families and helping children thrive.

September 27, 2024
Jami Sabety Atto