Recognizing the urgency of her condition, Mr. Williams has approved a humanitarian grant of $1,000 USD (approximately Tk. 110,000) to support Fahima’s ongoing medical treatment. Upon receiving the news, Fahima was overcome with emotion. “No one in my country stood by me. Many international organizations also turned their backs. But Jon Williams came like a godsend in my darkest hour. I will pray for him for the rest of my life,” she said, tears streaming down her face.
Fahima has long served as the Cumilla district correspondent for several leading Bangladeshi newspapers, including Dainik Ajkaler Khobor, Moynamoti, and Bhorer Surjodoy. On February 15, she was viciously attacked by unidentified assailants. Since then, her condition has worsened due to inadequate medical attention and the severity of her pre-existing health issues.
To date, she has spent over Tk. 1.2 million (approximately $10,200 USD) on treatment—money raised by selling her family's only home in the village. Despite this, she remains in urgent need of advanced medical care.
Her husband, Shuaibul Hossain Munshi, is no longer able to work due to his own health issues, leaving the family without any stable income. Together, they are raising two daughters—one in grade six and the other in grade one—while barely managing daily expenses.
Currently admitted to Cumilla General Hospital, doctors have stressed the need to transfer her to a specialized facility in Dhaka for proper care. However, financial hardship is standing in the way.
Dr. Delowara Begum, an internal medicine and cardiology specialist at the hospital, stated: “Fahima is suffering from severe kidney dysfunction, diabetes, and the aftereffects of a stroke. The injuries from the attack have worsened her condition. She urgently requires advanced treatment in Dhaka under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team.”
Attempts were made to contact Executive Director Jon Williams for further comment on whether Fahima could be recognized as a brave woman journalist or receive further support from the Rory Peck Trust. However, due to language barriers, no official remarks could be obtained.
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