Hundreds of kind-hearted people have donated more than $950,000 in two weeks to help an ailing Muslim family whose loved ones were almost wiped out by a crazed motorist in London.
A Go Fund Me campaign that was created on June 7 by family friend Sana Yasir has attracted hundreds of mourners who have pledged almost $1 million, which is the goal set for funds.
More than 650 people have pledged funds or left supportive notes to the grieving family and members of the Muslim and widespread communities in Canada.
The London, Ont., family of five were waiting at an intersection last June 6 when a driver intentionally mounted the curb and struck them, killing four, because of their Islamic faith, officials said.
The dead included two parents, two children and a grandmother. They are identified as Salman Afzaal, a physiotherapist and community leader, his wife Madiha, who was in the process of finishing her exams to obtain a Doctor of Philosophy at Western University in Civil engineering; and their daughter Yumna. Their son, Fayez, survived the attack. The grandmother was also killed.
“Nine-year-old Fayez is in stable condition but remains in hospital and is accompanied by a family member,” Yasir wrote. “The attack has been confirmed by police to be a hate crime.”
She said some funds will be donated to help London-area groups or charities, as approved by the family.
“I am well aware that the family does not need any money for funeral expenses as that has been taken care off,” said Yasir, who has been a friend of the slain family for 12 years. “The immediate family members will make a final decision on the funds and where it will be going.”
She said the giving away of the donations is an important concept in Islam, in that ‘it is a gift that not only benefits others in this life but also benefits us and our loved ones in the next.’
“When a person dies, all their deeds end except three: a continuing charity, beneficial knowledge and a child who prays for them,” Yasir cites words from a Muslim Prophet.
The useless murders were condemned by most Canadians from coast to coast.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Madiha and her family are sorely missed by friends and colleagues,” members of Geosyntec Consultants wrote on Go Fund Me.
“Peace be With You. May you continue to see the love in the world through this terrible tragedy,” said Danielle Buchko.
“Side hustle signs by D is happy to donate proceeds raised for this fund. Spreading love and kindness to you and your family during this tragic difficult time,” another person wrote.
“It’s truly tragic and heartbreaking for the entire family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We pray for love and healing inshallah,” Shelisa Singh said.
Nathaniel Veltman, 20, faces four first-degree murder charges and an attempted murder charge that prosecutors allege constitute an act of terrorism.
He is slated to return to court on June 21.