MAKKAH: Azlina Ayub received an offer from Tabung Haji to perform the haj this year with her husband and eldest daughter.
She was ready to turn down the offer, however, as she just could not leave her 15-year-old son behind.
Born with cerebral palsy, Azif Asyrafi needs personal attention and specialised care.
Azlina also has three other young children to think of.
The teacher from Kuala Selangor had more or less made up her mind that it was not to be for her this year, when four of her former students from SMK Jeram paid her an unexpected visit at her home in Kuala Selangor.
"Allah certainly works in mysterious ways," she said, wiping away tears.
She shared her story with the team of Tabung Haji counsellors who paid her room a random visit to provide counselling and moral support.
Azlina said she informed her ex-students of her offer from Tabung Haji but told them she could not go as there was no one to take care of her son.
"To my surprise, the four girls told me they would take care of him as they are on their university semester break.
"Tak apa Mama Lin, biar kita yang jaga anak-anak Mama (It's okay, let us take care of your children).
"They refused to accept payment, saying it was the least they could do for my help and guidance all these years. I was really shocked and touched. Never did I imagine that I would be given ease of passage for the haj this way."
The four are now taking turns to stay at Azlina's home.
"They cook and entertain the kids, even change my son's diapers. They send me photos every day. The food they cook for my children look more delicious than mine and all the children look so happy. I am truly blessed."
The counsellors advised Azlina not to worry and focus on her religious obligations now that her children were well taken of.
They advised Azlina's daughter Alya Syakirah Badros, also here for the haj, the same.
Azlina said she would and described everything that she has experienced in the Holy Land thus far as being memorable and positive.