Rima still remembers the early days of her marriage to Elias. They were neighbours, young and hopeful, and their life together began with love and joy. After they married in 1990, they welcomed their first daughter, Cybelle. Two years later, their son Bernard was born, and it soon became clear that he had a serious health condition that would lead to a lifelong disability. Over time, medical tests confirmed what Rima had feared. Their family’s journey would be shaped by care, perseverance, and faith.
Five years later, Cynthia was born and was also diagnosed with a disability. The challenges multiplied, physically, emotionally, and financially. Rima and Elias eventually placed their circumstances in God’s hands and learned to accept a life they had not planned but chose to embrace with love. Bernard was later enrolled in a school for children with special needs, bringing some stability to the family. When Rima became pregnant again, fear returned, but so did trust. Their youngest son, Charbel, was born healthy and grew into a caring brother and devoted son.
The family faced another severe trial when Bernard was diagnosed with cancer. The treatment was long, difficult, and expensive, but today Bernard is cancer free and continues to be closely monitored. Through every hardship, Elias remained a source of strength and kindness within the family.
Displacement caused by the conflict in southern Lebanon added further strain. The family could no longer spend time in their home village, where life was calmer and extended family support was available. Then, four months ago, Rima’s life changed forever when Elias passed away suddenly after a rapid illness. The loss left her grieving deeply and struggling to imagine the future without him.
Today, Rima is the sole caregiver for Bernard and Cynthia, who require constant support and are unable to work or communicate independently. Cybelle now has her own family, and Charbel has recently begun freelance work. Rima is careful not to place heavy responsibility on him, knowing he is still finding his way in life.
With no steady income and rising costs for food, medical needs, and daily care, life has become increasingly restricted. “Sometimes we feel like prisoners in our own home,” Rima shares. Yet, in the midst of this uncertainty, practical support has brought relief and dignity.
Through the partnership between Chiyah Brethren Church and MERATH, the family has received food vouchers and e cards since the COVID 19 pandemic. These have become a vital lifeline. The e cards allow Rima to provide nutritious food her children can eat and enjoy, including milk, cereals, and soft cheese that she prepares daily. “They came exactly when I needed them most,” she says.
Rima speaks with humility and gratitude about receiving help. Asking for support is not easy for her, but she recognises it as God’s provision through caring people. She gives thanks for Claudette, the church, and all those who make this assistance possible.
Despite everything she has endured, Rima continues to pray for a dignified path forward. She finds comfort in knowing she is not alone and that God has remained faithful through every season. Her story is one of quiet resilience, deep love, and the sustaining power of compassionate support at the right time.
