MECCA: Performing the haj, challenging enough for the average pilgrims, can be even tougher for those with disabilities, or so we think.
“I strengthen my will. I want to do it like other people. I walk if I can,” said Umor Abd Rahman, 59, from Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan.
Born with a shortened right leg, the former Immigration Department employee is in the Holy Land for the first time to perform haj with his wife, brother, and sister-in-law.
“I can do the tawaf (myself). For sa’ie, I ask my brother to help push me on a wheelchair,” Umor said, adding that God had eased his affairs in the Holy Land.
Shahrani Talib, his wife, related how the security officers at the Grand Mosque had been flexible with her husband, how other pilgrims in the crowded mosque gave way for him, and the wheelchair gifted to them by an unknown donor.
“What motivates me? If others can do it, why not me? That has been my principle all along. What others can do, I can do Insya-Allah (God willing),” said Umor, who has four children.
He choked up as he spoke about his sick mother, whom he visited three times a week and cared for.
“Alhamdulillah, I am thankful to be chosen this year, and I can pray in front of the Kaaba for my mother to get better,” Umor said.
Asked what advice he would give other Muslims with disabilities, Umor said their handicap should not prevent them from performing haj.
“They must have strong spirit to do it well. If others can do it, so can we. Thank you to Tabung Haji for giving this opportunity. All the assistance given to us can never be repaid,” he added.
Wheelchair-bound Siti Mardhiah Badaruddin, meanwhile, had rejected the offer to do haj three times due to financial reasons and her father’s ailing health.
“It wasn’t easy to save money over the years, but with some contributions and income from selling crystal bracelets online, I accepted the fourth offer this year,” said the 33-year-old from Seremban.
She is performing Haj with her brother Badrul Hisham, 40, and sister Marzaida, 47.
“I couldn’t believe it when I saw the Kaaba in front of my eyes. I was excited and happy, but also sad. I had promised to come with my father (he passed away from diabetes in 2010),” Mardhiah added.
She advised other handicapped pilgrims to always be patient in the face of challenges during their worship.
“Of course it’s difficult to walk, climb stairs and things like that, but Insya-Allah I can do it,” Mardhiah said.