Maryam’s Story: Finding Hope for Her Two Sons in Thailand

This World Day of Migrants and Refugees, we invite you to listen to Maryam’s story — a mother’s voice that reflects the courage and hope of many families seeking safety and dignity far from home.

Maryam*, a Pakistani mother of two, arrived in Thailand with her husband and children to escape religious persecution. In Pakistan, the family faced hostility and repeated threats because of their Christian faith. Violence against her husband, coupled with the fragile health of their two sons, left them living in fear. “We could not stay any longer in Pakistan,” she recalls.

“My children could not sleep at night because of fear. We decided to come to Thailand in search of safety.”

Life in Bangkok, however, has not been without challenges. Maryam’s husband lives with a serious muscle condition that causes chronic pain and prevents him from working. Both of their sons face health difficulties: the younger struggles with speech development, while the elder lives with epilepsy and neurological complications.

“We face too many problems,” Maryam says.

“I stay home to take care of my children, and my husband cannot work. We often borrow money just to pay for medicine and food.”

In the midst of hardship, Maryam found support through Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Thailand. “JRS helped us with food and rent,” she says. “When we received assistance, life became a little bit easier. We could buy food, pay the bills, and feel some relief from our worries.”

For Maryam, JRS’s support provided more than financial help. JRS offered reassurance and human connection. “I pray for JRS every day,” she says. “The staff are kind and compassionate. They listen to our stories and try their best to support us. May God bless them for helping families like mine.”

While uncertainty remains, Maryam continues to draw strength from faith and gratitude.

“Before, in Pakistan, we lived in constant fear. Here, even with difficulties, we feel safer,” she reflects.

“JRS’s support has been a blessing for my family. It gives me hope that better days will come.”

Name has been changed to protect identity.