Starting March 8th, International Women’s Day, Sahiyo U.S. will be hosting a virtual silent auction to raise funds and awareness for our programs and services to end female genital cutting (FGC). The auction will open on Wednesday, March 8th, 9am PST/ 12pm EST and close on Sunday, March 12th, 6pm PST/ 9pm EST. We have some amazing sponsors and auction items have been provided by our supporters. To uplift and thank them for their contribution, we’re highlighting who they are and why they support Sahiyo.
When and how did your involvement with Sahiyo first begin?
So, I think it started when I had a conversation with my cousin, who was familiar with Sahiyo’s work, about FGM/C and he told me about all the great work that Sahiyo is doing. Back in the 70s, I was practicing medicine in The Middle East, and it was a great shock to me that my co-workers and colleagues, all doctors, were circumcising their own daughters. I think that’s when I first began feeling passionate about this issue. I only actively got involved with Sahiyo after speaking with Arefa Casshobhoy, who, at a community gathering, asked me if I’d like to get more familiar with Sahiyo’s work. I said, 100%, this is what I really believe in. Arefa’s a splendid person, and she really pushed me to think about my role in contributing to this work.
Why did you decide to donate to Sahiyo’s silent auction? What does the event mean to you?
When I saw what Sahiyo was doing, I was immediately committed to helping in any way that I could. The more money we raise, the more work we can do. I don’t mind putting my book out– it has already been well received and reviewed, and I have done hundreds of interviews and podcasts to help people understand heart disease, as it is the leading cause of death in the world today. So, my point is, by donating four copies of my book to Sahiyo’s auction, I want to help the organization raise as much money as possible, while also providing valuable information to the highest bidder.
What did you donate?
I donated four signed copies of my book, Open Heart, as well as an hour of my time to answer any of the highest bidder’s questions over a Zoom call. I wear three hats- a doctor, an open heart surgery survivor, and a septuagenarian athlete. So, I can and will answer any questions from the highest bidder regarding the prevention of chronic disease, fitness, and open heart surgery. I want people to learn from my shortcomings and mistakes, and at the same time contribute to a cause that is close to me.
How would you like to see your donation help Sahiyo grow?
My broad focus of the impact of this donation is contributing to ending this practice of FGM/C. I want this cause to be helped, whether it is Nigeria or Egypt or the U.S., or wherever. That is my first aim. And then, if I am needed for other things, such as the Bhaiyo program, I will use whatever expertise I have to contribute to it. I’ve gotten so much from the community, and I want to give back. It is my community, too.
Why do you think others should donate to Sahiyo?
I think others should donate to Sahiyo, because, in my opinion, there is no better way for them to contribute to something larger than themselves. The message I would give to others is this: donate your time, donate your expertise, and donate your money. Whether you are an actor, a CEO, a physician, or whatever, and if you have the means, use your resources and skill-sets to donate to this cause. It is not going to get better unless we act now. My final message to people is: dig deep in your pockets.