A sister trying to avoid riba amidst heavy medical debt

Assalamu Alaikum everyone,

I’m writing this with a heavy heart. I’m not used to sharing personal matters publicly, but this past year has been very difficult for my family.

I am a sister from Mindanao and currently the only one working and supporting my parents and younger siblings, who are still studying. We are from a Muslim region in the Philippines. My mother is battling stage 4B cervical cancer, and my father has complicated diabetes. Managing both conditions at the same time has been emotionally and financially overwhelming.

We tried our best to continue my mother’s treatments, but the medical expenses became too much for us to handle. Making decisions around her care has been one of the most painful experiences of my life. It breaks my heart — no child is ever truly prepared to see their parents suffer.

Over time, our responsibilities and obligations have grown heavier. The debts accumulated to more than a million. There is no interest involved, but the weight of everything has been difficult to manage. I am doing my best to stay strong, work hard, and handle everything in a way that is halal and honorable.

More than anything, I humbly ask for your sincere duas for my parents and for ease during this hardship. May Allah grant shifa to the sick and relief to those who are struggling.

Jazakum Allahu khayran for reading.