Greenville Welcomes Back a Brave Girl Turned Woman
In the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, a touching story of resilience and hope is unfolding as a courageous woman, Salee Allawi, returns to the place that changed her life forever. Now 27, Salee originally came to America as a child after losing her legs in the Iraq War. Her journey, filled with incredible challenges and support, has brought her back to the Upstate with her husband, Abed, and a heart full of memories.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
During a recent visit to the Ronald McDonald House, where she spent long months while receiving medical care, Salee was overcome with emotion as she saw the plaque that features her smiling face. “It feels surreal to be back,” she said, wiping away tears. “I never expected to see it after all these years.” Marti Spencer, the executive director of the house, shared how Salee’s impact still resonates within the walls of this nonprofit organization. “Her journey and strength inspire us all. She’s truly unforgettable,” Spencer noted.
The Journey That Changed Everything
Salee’s first visit to the U.S. occurred in 2007, following a series of devastating events that saw her lose not only her legs but also significant family members. With the help of the No More Victims organization, founded to assist children injured in the Iraq War, Salee was transported to America for medical treatment. “What started as a small grassroots effort turned into a lifeline for so many like Salee,” said Cole Miller, the founder of the organization. After multiple surgeries and replacements of prosthetics over the years, her visits to Greenville shaped her young life.
Finding Love Amidst Struggles
After enduring significant hardships and relocation to Turkey in 2015 due to the deteriorating situation in Iraq, Salee met Abed at a Turkish language school. Sharing a laugh, she recounted the awkwardness of their first encounter, “He approached me, and I was terrified. It was not common for a boy to talk to a girl like that, but thank goodness he did!” After overcoming her initial shyness and fears, they began a loving relationship that blossomed into marriage this past October. They now call northern Iraq home.
New Beginnings and Old Memories
During her recent trip to Greenville, Salee is not only reminiscing about her past but also gearing up for a bright future. She’s currently undergoing fittings for new prosthetic legs, a process made possible by local generosity and medical expertise at the Hanger Clinic. “These legs will give me a normal life,” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with hope. With the help of organizations that continue to support her journey, Salee expects to regain mobility that she has struggled with for far too long.
A Community That Cares
The local Greenville community has rallied behind Salee once again, with kind folks eager to contribute to the costs of her new prosthetics, estimated at a staggering $30,000. “It’s heartwarming to see how many people want to help,” said Emily Boyd, clinic manager. And it seems the goodwill doesn’t stop there. Salee and Abed were greeted with open arms and smiles from those who remember them. “Seeing her come back brings tears to my eyes,” said volunteer Kathryn McDeed, who fondly recalls when Salee received the Key to the City.
A Legacy of Strength
As Salee embodies hope, resilience, and strength, Marti Spencer from Ronald McDonald House shares the impact she’s had on the community. Salee’s journey serves as a reminder that through the darkest times, light can still shine through. “Her story may have started in hardship, but it’s blossomed into inspiration for so many,” Spencer said, her voice filled with pride.
Today, as Salee looks forward to a future filled with possibilities and plans to ride a bicycle, her story reminds everyone that overcoming adversity is possible with determination and community support. “I may not have my legs, but I’ve got wings to fly!” she concluded with a smile. Greenville will always be a special place for her, forever etched in her heart.
