Christmas is a time for food, family time and colourful festivities. But for many, who’ve lost loved ones, it can be a sad and trying season.
For one New South Wales family, Christmas 2020 was the first without their four children.
On February 1st, Daniel and Leila Abdallah lost three of their six children after a reckless driver swerved onto a footpath at Oatlands, trampling the kids.
Bridget Sakr, Mr Abdallah’s cousin, also lost her 11-year old daughter.
Siblings Antony, Angelina and Sienna Abdallah and their cousin Veronique Sakr were innocently walking when they were hit.
With great strength, the family have since come forward saying they forgive the male driver.
Mr Abdallah says “We still feel pain and sorrow everyday, but forgiveness has helped to get rid of the anger and bitterness. It’s helped us get through each day and make sure we are there for our other children.”
With the support of the NSW Government, the family will be launching ‘I 4give Day.’
The aim of the day is to remember the children and to help others who have suffered from the loss of loved ones.
A new website ‘i4give.com’ will also be launched where direct links to grief counselling will be available.
Minister for Mental Health, Bronnie Taylor, says that tragic circumstances can have a profound impact on families. She hopes this initiative can help people all over New South Wales.
“For some people a psychologist or grief and trauma therapist may be of assistance and the need for this may occur months or years after the event.”
The day will be launched on the 31st of January with a memorial service.
