A New Beginning for the Alhashemi Family: Mourning, Asylum, and a Newborn
After a tragic loss at sea during their quest for asylum, the Alhashemi family navigates the challenges of life in France, now celebrating a new baby and hope for the future.
The Alhashemi family, having faced grievous challenges during their quest for asylum, lost their seven-year-old daughter Sara while trying to cross the English Channel. After an arduous year filled with grief and uncertainty, they have finally received recognition as refugees in France. Recently, they welcomed a new baby girl, Sally, which marks a fresh start for the family.
Ahmed and Nour Alhashemi had spent years in a state of legal limbo, moving from one country to another in search of safety, when the heartbreaking incident occurred during their fourth attempt to cross to England. Sara's suffocation during that disastrous journey left an indelible mark on the family.
However, life has taken a positive turn. In March 2025, they were able to secure a home in a social housing unit, paving the way for them to begin anew in Rouvroy. Rahaf, one of Sara's sisters, saw this as an opportunity to create a ‘shrine’ for her sister, honoring her memory while also embracing the future.
Today, the family’s home echoes with new life; Nour gives birth to Sally, a name that carries a sense of hope and love. Nour expresses her delight, saying, 'It means I can see Sara in her'. This arrival symbolizes not just a new addition to their family but also their resilience against the adversities they’ve faced.
As the Alhashemi family settles into their new life, Ahmed works towards opening his own business, while Nour dreams of running a bakery, indicating a shift from survival to aspirations for a stable and fulfilling future.
Through their story, it becomes clear that while the shadows of their past linger, the Alhashemi family can finally embrace the light of possibility, as they now have a safe place to call home.
