Honouring a hero

Letter July 10, 2019
The country lost a true hero and we still have not recovered from this loss

TURBAT, KECH: Abdul Sattar Edhi dedicated his life to humanity and is remembered for saving the lives of the most vulnerable in Pakistan. He immersed himself in charity and social work and fought to ease the numerous hardships the poor struggled with. He believed that humanity conquered all differences and he embodied love and compassion for all, irrespective of religion or caste. He founded the Edhi Foundation that helped millions. From homeless women, to orphans, abandoned children, and unclaimed deceased — all were supported by the foundation. He established the biggest ambulance network in the country that is run by volunteers and provides 24 hours emergency assistance across Pakistan and abroad. Moreover, he was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1986 for his service to the public, and the Balzan Prize in 2000 for promoting humanity and peace.

July 8th marks the day he departed from this world three years ago. The country lost a true hero and we still have not recovered from this loss. It is hard to imagine that in a few years, we will have a generation that will not know who this legend was or his contribution to our country, especially Karachi. We must mark the days of his birth and death to ensure his legacy lives on, and we live by his message of mercy and kindness. He should never be forgotten and should live on in our hearts and our actions.

Irshad Wahid

Published in The Express Tribune, July 10th, 2019.

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