Syrian Father Crosses Seas to Save Ailing Son

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Abdulaziz Aldarwish, a Syrian refugee living in Athens, Greece, made a perilous journey across the Mediterranean Sea to save his young son's life. His son was suffering from a serious medical condition that could not be properly treated in Greece, so Aldarwish took the dangerous risk of crossing the sea in a small boat to reach Italy, where his son could receive the specialized care he needed.

Why it matters

The story highlights the extreme measures refugees are sometimes forced to take to access essential medical treatment for their loved ones, as well as the ongoing humanitarian crisis facing displaced Syrians who have fled the civil war in their home country.

The details

Aldarwish and his family had been living as refugees in Athens for several years after fleeing the conflict in Syria. When his young son fell gravely ill with a rare genetic disorder, Aldarwish knew the Greek healthcare system would not be able to provide the specialized care required. With no other options, he made the difficult decision to make the perilous journey across the Mediterranean Sea in a small, overcrowded boat to reach Italy, where his son could receive the life-saving treatment.

• Aldarwish and his family have been living as refugees in Athens since fleeing Syria several years ago.
• In March 2026, Aldarwish's young son fell seriously ill with a rare genetic disorder.
• Aldarwish made the dangerous journey across the Mediterranean Sea to Italy in March 2026 to seek medical care for his son.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Aldarwish and his family are currently in Italy, where his son is receiving treatment for his rare genetic disorder. Doctors are cautiously optimistic about his prognosis, but he will require ongoing specialized care.