My marathon runner sister doesn't just have a strong heart, she also has big heart.
Until yesterday, the bulletin board in her hospital room stated this:
Goal: Comfort
Yesterday they changed it. Here's what it says:
She's still fighting for her life today. May my sister find her peace.
Peace to you Rina.
ReplyDeleteLove, love, love, Cara
Wishing all of you PEACE...
ReplyDeleteLove,
Paul and Chris
InshAllah(God willing) she will be in peace <3 we are all praying for her and the entire family to get through this.
ReplyDeleteRina I'm so sorry to hear that you have been going through all of this. I went to school with you and your sister Sauki was in my class. You have been very strong through all of this and I want you to know I'm praying for you and your family. I pray that you and your family will find peace.
ReplyDeleteRenee Chambers (Ellefson)
Its the love of her family and friends thats keeping her strong...Ferdousi hears the voices, so sweetly ,saying " I love you, mom, sister, my daughter, cousin, friend" God Bless you Ferdousi,you're a beautiful person ..I pray for you and your family everyday
ReplyDeletekt
Love you Rina. You are one tough cookie, aren't you....but of course. You are a true inspiration. Miss you so, so much. Yours, Kim E.
ReplyDeleteYou will always be a beautiful part of my life. c/nc
ReplyDeleteRina apu,
ReplyDeleteI love you with all my heart. You are the most adventurous outgoing and silliest gal I know. Every day, hour, minute I was able to spend time with you was absolutely fantastic. You have helped me get though anything and everything. You helped me be confident with myself. You bring out the best in me. You gave me the best advice and made me smile in the worst of times. You have been by my side as long as I can remember. You are so loving, caring, and reasonable and I can talk to you for hours on end. You have made my life full of extraordinary adventure on all the fishing, hiking, and road trips we had. I don't regret any second we spent together because those are some of my favorite memories.
You are a fighter though, all your life you have only listened to yourself and I know that you can beat this.
I need you to be there for me, I want you to see David and I graduate. You need to shop with me for my prom dress. We have so many more memories to make. It can't end here. You loved me as your own daughter and I can't be more thankful for all you have done for me. I love you so much and I can't stand to lose you. You are my cousin, friend, and sister and I love you unconditionally.
Love,
Iffat
Rina, I so wish we could talk right now. The comfort you have given me over the years has been amazing. When I have been upset over something, you have always made me feel peaceful. Now all I want for you is the same. Peace be with you and your family. Keith
ReplyDeleteMay you find your peace Rina - you deserve it more than anyone. Love always, Kelly
ReplyDeleteFerdousi,
ReplyDeleteAs a read the most recent entries in your blog from your wonderful family and dear friends, the tears flow, but I calmed by the memories of our unique friendship. Drawn by our passion for wildlife and adventure, we found each other in the Galapagos, and through telephone calls and visits, we've stayed close even though we are far apart.
On my first visit to see you, you showed me the sights and sounds of Chicago on the fourth of July and I got to know David, even though he has grown so much since then! It was wonderful seeing you again in January along with your family and the wonderful people who care so much about you.
You are so loved by so many Ferdousi, and I am certainly one of the many who love you. You are an amazing person and a wonderful friend and I will always cherish our moments together. I wish I could tell you that in person. . . My heart goes out to you and all your loved ones.
Janine
Rina,
ReplyDeleteI can not begin to express the care and concern I feel for you and your ongoing battle. Regretfully, it's been some time since we've been in touch. I just want you and your family to know that your in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you, Saki, for this post. Your words expressed perfectly the strength and beauty of Rina's heart.
Kirsten (Jackson) Johnson
MY dear Rina...you are always picky..i remember few years back we both were talking about saari and i still remember u said I AM VERY PICKY i want to wear exactly the way i want and i really like ur spirit thats the way things should be...you want all of us to love u and care about u... and here we r sweet heart we all love u and thinking about u almost all the time since june 2011.May ALLAH bless u and make life easy for u.my love and prayers r with u and ur family..ur smily face is in my mind all the time .May Allah bless u and ur parents, sissters, and whole family.u did great SELINA we all want to know about her that shows u r with her in all the time like a great sisster.
ReplyDeleteLots of love,love and love and bundle of prayers for u Rina. Mona and family
My dear sweet, loving, generous, and crazy sister I'm upset with you. When you came to MI we made so many plans to go out shopping, go walk around beautiful places, have movie nights all the time, and so much more. I was so looking forward to seeing your beautiful face at my graduation when i went up there on stage because your face makes me smile and gets me so motivated. Your adventurous and you always follow your heart, which are two qualities i absolutely love about you. As i told you yesterday when i talked to you alone I plan on following my heart just like you did. I know you've probably heard this a thousand times but you truly are such an inspiring person! The way you've fought through this is just amazing and when your back home talking to everyone again it'll be even more amazing. I'm so proud to call you my cousin and my big sister. There honestly can't be a better big sister out there. I hate admitting this but i'm so jealous of how much more time all our cousins got to spend with you. Everyone always talks about how you took them hiking, boating, shopping, etc. and gave them so many new experiences and opportunities. I really hope soon it'll be my turn to get a bit of those tremendous memories everyone loves to talk about :) But I'll still never forget the very few memories we have had together because every time I was with you I had a smile on my face and on top of that there was always something to talk about. You are such an easy person to talk to and one of the most understanding people i know as well.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to this years December 20th because exactly at 12am like every year i love hearing us screaming happy birthday at each other.
I can't stand seeing you in the pain you are in and iA it'll all be gone ASAP. Allah is surely to hear the many many prayers that are being recited everyday by all your fans :) I Love you soooo extremely much Rina Apu!
Love, Tasmin (Farhana)
Peace to you and your family, Rina. Love, Beth
ReplyDeleteMorning my dearest Rina,
ReplyDeleteMay peace be with you always. May the pain go away and calmness fall into place. Like a dove's feather on a bed of autumn leaves, may you rest tranquilly. I love you Rina.
Kim E.
Rina, I feel I know you much better than you know me, but I want to share with you from my perspective how much your sister Selina and your nephews Russell and Elliott love you so, so much. I only got to meet you a couple of times when you came to Iowa to visit, and I could tell from the small amount of time I spent with you that you are a person that I would love to know better. Your sister tells me of so many things she loves and admires about you--your warmth, your adventurous spirit, how you can make friends so easily, that you are a ray of sunshine to everyone. My son Ian has been friends with Russell since first grade, and over the years I have heard Russell and Elliott talk of you and David with such affection and warmth. You should be proud of your nephews--they are wonderful boys. But then you already know that!
ReplyDeleteMy family has been praying for you since last June when you began this battle. You, Selina, your parents (whom I also have had the privilege to meet), David, Russell, Elliott, and all your loving family have been held so close in our hearts this past week. May God hold you in his keeping and give you all peace.
Jana
Ferdousi - I am so sorry to learn about the challenge of these last several days.
ReplyDeleteWhen we first met at that Caribou Coffee in St. Paul for your interview I was struck by your energy, enthusiasm and tenacity. The stories you told me of your prior experiences were memorable and impressive. I knew I wanted to work with you! May you find comfort and peace knowing that there are so many that care about you.
Shawna Peters, Genesis10
To Ferdousi's family and friends: The love Ferdousi has given each of you will be with you always. May God's blessings shine upon all of you and give you comfort.
ReplyDeleteTo Ferdousi: God is blessing you as He is encompassing you in his eternal arms. We wish you peace and love on your journey. We will miss you. You have made a difference in our lives.
Carroll Nystrom, Holland, OH
I know you are going to a better place; only transforming; will be looking at us, smiling.
ReplyDeleteThere is no goodbye.
I spent my college days watching you grow up in Platteville. Always smiling, always helping, always excited.
We all will take this journey to the next phase; you’re just taking it earlier than us. Maybe you’re needed over there or you’re done here. We don’t know the reason, our wisdom is limited.
But you have touched so many people, you have brought smile to so many faces, young and older; you have brought joy to us. Kudos to you dear Rina.
Thank you for being here.
Just like the cross country runner you were, you’re getting ready for another sprint.
You will always be in our hearts.
Peace be upon you.
Khokon Mama
Our prayers with her, May Allah(SWT) make it easy for her and the family..don't have words with me
ReplyDeleteFerdousi, AKA highest heaven in paradise
ReplyDeleteIn our younger years, we dream of great things to accomplish in life. Traveling, exploring, and living life to the fullest are few general topics can be discussed with almost all people. We all wants it! How many of us try it? How many of us go for it? Somewhere along the way, life happens:( We settle for it. We make excuses. In a world full of self interested people, Rina Afa is a change of pace. She traveled, explored, and lived her life. We all want the adventures without the risk. No such thing! She inspires me to think different.
In the summer of 1992, Rina Afa & family went back home to Bangladesh. It was very exciting time for all of us cousins. One summer evening, Rina Afa challenged all the male cousins for a short running competition. As I vividly recall how all the guys were very confident that they can beat this skinny girl from overseas. To everyone’s amazement, she finished first in the race. That is Rina Afa. She challenged conventional thinking. We need more free spirit like her to make this world a better place. She made this world a better one.
Scholars say that creator of this universe look for little things in an individual to send them in heaven. Rina Afa has a big heart! Her name represents highest paradise. May you dear cousin find peace with the creator of heaven and earth. We love you soo much.
Saki Afa, your strength in this difficult time is incredible. You truly are rock of your family. Be strong! We are with you dear cousin.
Munna
Dear Rina,
ReplyDeleteYou have walked with, stood by, and touched so many. You are blessed. We all walk and pray with you now. Please be strong.
Jason
Dear Rina -
ReplyDeleteI hope that in your strength you find your peace. My thoughts are with you, David and Saki and your family.
Rachel B.
Sending love your way Rina and family. I wish you peace on your journey.
ReplyDeleteDear Rina~
ReplyDeleteI only knew you for a short time but your loving energy touched my heart. Praying for you and your family during this difficult time.
XO, Joan
Rina,
ReplyDeleteI remember the first time I met you at Nadia's bridal shower. You were so bubbly and happy and radiantly beautiful. I thought Nadia was lying to me when she told me your age -- mashaAllah, your family ages so well!! I swear, you don't look a day over 29. You just have this light, this energy, that attracts people to you and makes them want to be around you. SubhanAllah. I only got to hang out with you a handful of times, but I remember being in awe of your spirit and your excitement for life. That is what I will remember about you always.
Imam Ali (AS) said, “Live amongst people in such a manner that when you die, people weep over you, and when you are alive, they crave for your company.”
I think you embody that saying perfectly. In life, you attract people like a light attracts flies, and you have no idea how many people will weep for you when you go. You don't know how truly blessed I am to say that I've met you, and although we didn't get to spend a lot of time together, you have left a very lasting impression on me.
You and your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. May you be at peace soon. <3
With all my heart and all my love,
Erika
Ferdousi and Family, David-
ReplyDeleteWe have not met. I stayed at the same hotel as Ferdousi in Jamaica in ~2006 and then we made plans to go climbing in Kentucky around Easter 2007.
Ferdousi has spirit that does not die.
David, while Ferdousi kept me company in Kentucky after my accident her focus on you set an example for me about what it means to be a parent. While we talked about your love of soccer I remembered my own childhood playing the game. In this, I have learned to consider my own mother's thoughts; and what is of value.
My thoughts are not clear but I know there are few people who match Ferdousi's quality.
I am upset for myself because I think that there are so few people who were willing to endure the challenges and still be full of love. I am angry in knowing that I can't always meet the challenge. I am humbled by the opportunity.
My spirit is with you c/nc
Hi,
ReplyDeletePlease share with Ferdousi that we have been praying for her and she is a beautiful person. Peace will heal all! We love you! Shelly (The Ganzer family)
Dear Ferdousi and Family, I as humbled and moved incredibly as I read these comments of tribute and accolade to your beautiful Ferdousi, whom so many I now know call Rina--- both beautiful, perfect names. The Cancer Support Group at St. Paul's United Methodist Church continues to ask about you, Ferdousi, and to pray for you. You are being held tightly and warmly in our hearts. That is one of our favorite sayings because the heart is the perfect place to hold someone: it is warm there and . . . safe. I wish you PEACE, in every form, dear one. Gently, Cheryl Martz
ReplyDeleteWrote this for Rina Apa... inshaAllah she will find peace...
ReplyDeleteStay a little longer
We beg, plea, you have touched so many hearts and it is not time for goodbye yet
Be here for a little longer
Let us hear your heart beat as it is more beautiful than any melody
Rest a little longer
there is no sight more beautiful than seeing you calm and resting
Sleep a little longer
You have spent countless hours awake for other’s sake
Wait a little longer
Wait till we finish counting the tear drops so you never stop waiting
Give us few more moments
You spent your existence helping others; let us try to help
Breathe a little longer
You are, you’ve always been and you will remain in our hearts for eternity
Rina Apu,
ReplyDeleteI am remembering how kind and affectionate you were to me and Sadia when we were little. I am remembering all the time you gave to us. With much love-
Rina Apa,
ReplyDeleteSeeing you in your current state was one of the hardest things I've ever done. I didn't know how'd I'd react to what's been happening.
As I watched you my mind drifted back to my childhood. I remembered you living with us and all the crazy things you used to do ... hanging out our roof, trying to introduce my mom to eating dandelions, breaking your side view mirror on our garage.
You lived life to the fullest, always making the best use of your time. I remember getting introduced to so many new things because of you. Every so often I'd hear about a new adventure you were on, things that I've never heard of before.
"How many miles are in a marathon." "Mom what's the Bermuda triangle and why is it cursed?" "What's South American like?"
We had the Bermuda triangle magnet you gave us for years. I'd always reflect on how adventurous you were.
You were always so full of love. I remember how you treated Nadia and how Nadia adored you. Every time I saw you two together, I wanted an older sister.
Life's too short but you really knew how to live it. You've touched the lives of so many people. Thank you for being in mine.
You are alwayz in my heart and you will alwayz be in my heart. May The almighty Allah Bless you.
ReplyDeleteLave you,
Rajib Hussain
Hey RINA APU :)
ReplyDeleteYes! You bring smile to the face every time I take your name.
I will never be able to list the things that you have done for me, nor will be able to thank you enough for them!
I always felt so connected to you...felt as though I have an older sister, who I can always share my experiences and problems with. And not to mention, you've always guided me n made it easy for me to make my own decisions.
You encouraged me to work on achieving my dreams. Well, my dreams are also to be like you in so many ways. Your fearless, friendly, charming and adventurous personality has always attracted me!
When I was facing difficulties n didn't know where to go....you were always there for me. Whether to help me with my high school home works, or financial difficulties, or choosing the right engineering program in college, or choosing the employer to work for, or sharing my personal issues, I've always found you beside me.
I dunno how you do this.....only a person with your personality will be able to handle all this!
I wish I had the chance to do 1/1000 portion to you of what you've done for me.
The least I could've done was to be with you when you moved to Michigan. Instead I thought I was busy living my life.
Forgive me sis; forgive me for not able to do my part. May Allah swt forgive me as well. You always knew how to give....and I only knew how to take it from you!
I've no doubt that Allah is very pleased with you.
I love you with all my heart....you made me strong, you made me smile, you taught me how to fight with the world.
Dearest Ferdousi,
ReplyDeleteWe haven't been in touch in a very long time, sometimes life leads us in different directions. The time I did spend with you will never be forgotten. You presence in this world has made a bigger impact than you will ever know. When I was made aware of you illness, I started reading the blog your wonderful family created. You are so lucky to have such caring people around you. Most will grieve or try to be strong in silence but the world was let in on your progress, giving you more love and support than most could ever wish or hope for. If I could touch even a miniscule fraction of the people you have made an impact on I would consider myself lucky. You have been so strong and a support for others around you during this difficult time which shows your open loving heart. Your long journey is now coming to an end although your presence will always be here. Please find peace now, we understand. Your spirit will live on forever. Forever in my heart, Amy
Rina Rina Rina... Jeez! Going around stirring stuff up again... <3<3<3 I've known you for a short time, but I know I will have you in my heart forever... There is not a person who you've met, even for a second, who you didn't have an impact on, make an impression! (wowzers, right>)
ReplyDeleteI often wondered why I felt an instant connection to you; on my Wedding day no less! As I read these posts, these memories and these blessings, I see what that connection is - You are for your friends and family as I am for mine. We are sisters in the heavens, I now know this...
We are stars in the night sky; Happily and yet sadly your star has been shining brighter / stronger and the heavens are calling you home... be sure to make room for us all!
I love Jon even more for knowing he had such a good friend like you in his life... I think you prepped for me! (0=
My mom and dad say "Vaya con Dios..."
Jon says - There goes Rina off on other wild adventure
I say - "don't forget me, I need someone like you looking after someone like me!"
Melenene & Jon - Loving & Missing you in NYC
omg! I spelt my name wrong... I hope you are having a good chuckle on my behalf!
DeleteMELENEE Melenee M-E-L-E-N-E-E
hey ferdousi,
ReplyDeleteWe didn't get a chance to get to know each other all that well but we did get the opportunity to work with each on a few projects at Duncan, unfortunately it was for a short time. The time we did work together I did get the opportunity to learn more about you. From the little time we worked together, I really appreciate the stories you shared. You always had stories to share about your son, David. Your face would always light up when you talked about him. Plus it was good to talk to another desi person & share each other’s experiences. Thank you for this.
I honestly check this blog daily hoping for a miracle. But I have learned everything happens for a reason. I hope you find your peace, Ferdousi. Take care.
-Nikki
For Rina/Bean,
ReplyDeleteI have been trying for several days to write to you on this blog. I start, but then I can't go on. I've held your hand often these past few days and told you how much I love you, but I couldn't find the words here. I think it was because it felt like a goodbye. I won't write goodbye. I can't because you will always be with me. There are so many ways in which you have affected who I am as a person and so many of my memories, good and bad, are tied up with you. (mostly good) We have grown up with each other since we were only 19 or 20. David, did you know how your mom and I met? She bounced up to me after the first day of a sociology class at Platteville and told me, "Please don't think I'm totally weird, but I just love your hair!" We talked, found out we were both going to lunch and were the best of friends from then on. Funny how that single moment changed my life forever.
I have always aspired to be more like you. You have given me so much. From you, I learned there are more important things than a clean home. Having a cup of tea with a friend is much more important. From you, I have learned that the time to do something you want to do it now. I have learned that it is never too late to try something new. I have learned that you should tell those that you love how much they mean to you, and to do so often. I still have so many of the cards and letters you sent to me just to thank me for being your friend. The honor has always been mine, Dear Friend. From you, I have learned that I shouldn't waste my time worrying about what others think. All that accomplishes is that it keeps you from being who you truly are. I learned not to come to a friend's house empty-handed. Give something little, but give of yourself a lot. Finally, from you, I have learned to be myself, to say what I feel and mean it and to live my life fiercely. You know what is important in life - friends, family and adventures. That and being true to yourself.
I won't say goodbye, Bean. You will always be with me and a part of who I am. Every card and letter I received from you finished with the words, "Paz y Amor". That is what I pray for you now. May God grant you Peace and Love, Rina.
Paz y Amor, also to you friends and family. These last several days, your family has been my family and I love them all dearly.
You're always here with me.
Sara/Bear
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteEvery couple of ours I enter the blog to find out how my dear Rina is doing, and if fills my aching heart to see how much love is expressed to Rina and her family. I know you are not afraid, and if you are, please know that there are hundreds of hearts holding you and the biggest love of all, our Lord, has his arms waiting for you if you are ready to go, we still believe in miracles because they do happen.
ReplyDeleteTe quiero mucho amiga... Veronica Pino.
Hello Little Sister:
ReplyDeleteAlthough we have lived afar from each other during our adult life, I still could count on my baby sister to be there for me when I need her. You truly are dearer to me than a sister, even if I have one. I have always admired your spirit, beauty, sense of adventure as well as your "warped" sense of humor! Oh sorry, is it I who has the warped sense of humor?! I love you so much my Rina, I thank you so much for all the wonderful and warm memories that I have of you, so does Rhaneem. She loves her Auntie Rina so much and misses her as much. This is not goodbye my dearest friend, but as the French say, it is "au revoir," until I see you again. I love you Rina and always will. Always in my heart and on my mind.
Assalamualaikum Rina,
ReplyDeleteMay Allah's peace and blessing be with you. Samia told me about your blog, so at the end of the day in school I was reading it. I felt so bad, I'm so far away and cannot see you or talk with you, but I want to tell you that we love you. You are a beautiful person, with a beautiful kind, warm, and caring heart. I pray to Allah that he may bless you with eternal peace, tranquility, and Jannah. Aameen.
Saki,
Assalamualaikum. Mashallah, your love for your sister and your strength is incredible. It was a good idea to start this blog so that people can express their feelings for Rina. May Allah give you, Nadia, Bhabi, and Bhaidon and all of us peace and strength to handle these hard times. Aameen.
Laily Auntie