[scagjockey]

Posted by Tammy, 6/5:
Just a quick update to let everyone know that Ali and Baraa are back home in Kuna, Idaho. They are very happy to be home with mom and the rest of the family. They both are still in a lot of pain and finding it very hard to sleep. Ali is having more issues than Baraa but the physical therapist is stopping by and keeping an eye out for them. The ipads help a lot because it takes their mind off their troubles for a bit and allow them to listen to music and play games.

From Kelli:
Hello all, I spoke with Dhuha yesterday (Monday), Ali and Baraa' are doing ok, not sleeping too good at night but that is expected after major surgery. Mom is really hands on from what I am being told. I will check back in with the family by the end of the week to see how things are going. Please continue with positive thoughts and prayers.

[scagjockey]

Ali and Baraa both have Facebook pages now. If you'd like to be their friend, send them a request.

http://www.facebook.com/ali.farhan.94064
http://www.facebook.com/baraa.farhan.3

They've been trying to stay occupied while recuperating from their spinal fusions. They still have their halos on, but they told me they hope to have them removed by mid August. I sent the kids iTunes gift cards as Tammy had suggested a downloaded game for their iPads might help to pass the time. Guess what? Baraa called me to say thank you! I was so impressed with her command of English and her sincerity and gratitude. I didn't realize it, but they have been living in the states now for already 3 years. Such a sweet girl and a humble and blessed family. I've chatted with Ali as well.
The family is still struggling financially. If their story has inspired you at all, why not send a couple of dollars their way? For the price of a latte, it just might make all the difference in the world.
http://www.dwarfchildren.org/

[scagjockey]

A new article on the family in the Idaho Stateman

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/0...ope-again.html

[scagjockey]

Update from Tammy:



This photo is of Abdul bringing Baraa home from the hospital in May. Both she and Ali spent the summer in their halos but on 30 August they will return to Wilmington, DE for the removals.

On 31 August they return back to Idaho for physical therapy and then will be able to go back to school (hopefully by the end of September). As you can imagine, they are beyond excited.

Ashley and I will be going to visit them next week because it will be their youngest sister, Taboo's, first day of kindergarten. I don't know who is more excited, she or I???

As always, we thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.

Tammy

[scagjockey]

From Tammy:
I wanted to provide everyone an update on Baraa and Ali's halos. They have been removed and everything went beautifully at DuPont Children's Hospital this morning. Baraa was first in getting her halo removed. She was very, very scared. I could see her little heart fluttering through her shirt. The specialist had to keep reminding her to breathe. Ali went next and he was a super trooper. He had absolutely no issues other than one or two small winces. It only took a matter of minutes for Dr. McKenzie to remove the halo's and they are now in neck braces for the next 4-6 months. After it was over Abdul was beside Ali and he had tears running down his face. He was crying from happiness and so very grateful. Thank you God, thank you.

Great news - the doctor said they both can go to school on Tuesday. Another chapter begins. For now they rest and heal and enjoy being in the 7th and 4th grade. Next year will bring their hip surgeries but that's a little painful to think about so we will rejoice in this small miracle of having their necks stabilized and say thank you to everyone who keeps these precious children in your thoughts and prayers.

[scagjockey]

Ali Farhan:

The halos r off! I am very happy because I am over with this challenge! It was a big relief of mine! I can't express how happy I am to have the halo off! Even though I have some breathing problems but it's better than the halo!!! Thanks to all of your prayers ! All the people that prayed for me was a big support of mine!

[scagjockey]

Ali and Baraa are two of the children that I rescued in Iraq. We were featured on the show "Little People Big World."
If you are familiar with our story, please, please, pass this on to as many people as you can. Help me save their lives. The loss of their older sister Saja devastated me.

Losing Ali or Baraa is unthinkable.


Please check out my website to see how to get my Book, “Miracle rugs” a free gift with your donation to save Ali and Baraa: www.dwarfchildren.org


If you would like updates on how they are doing here in Idaho, please click the links below and I'll send you a newsletter.

http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.c...=1105463465421


www.dwarfchildren.org
International Dwarf Advocacy Association is a non-profit organization and is dedicated to helping with the medical and financial needs of people with dwarfism.

[scagjockey]

Well, I finally figured out Skype and was able to chat with Ali and the rest of the family today. Their camera wasn't working but we talked about school and the weather. It's cold and snowy in Idaho right now. Ali's birthday was last Thursday(Jan. 3rd). He is now 14 and in the 7th grade. He seems like a very charming, polite young man.
Both he and Baraa are in cervical collars for another 2 months. They attend school for half the day.

[Northern Neighbour]

Wow 14???? Time really does fly!! I'm glad to hear they seem to be doing well.

[ohiolady]

Hi!
I'm new here but have followed Ali & Baraa as much I could looking online. I am so happy to hear they are doing great!! and just as happy to have found this site to be able to see how they are doing. I just fell in love with the kids when I first saw them on Matt's show one time and it was an older show. Thank you so much for keeping everyone informed.