MRAJEEB AL FHOOD, Jordan // The wrinkles lining the features of Syrian refugee Sheikha Azzam during just over a century did not hide the elegance of her smile as she received visitors at Mrajeeb Al Fhood camp in Jordan.
Sheikha celebrated her 105th birthday in the Emirati-Jordanian camp, but she still dreams of returning to her hometown of Jasem in Syria’s Daraa governorate, from which she fled after the war broke out.
Despite her old age and a loss of eyesight caused by diabetes, Sheikha is in good health and has an excellent memory, allowing her to recite all 66 names of her grandchildren.
She enjoys the company of her neighbours, with whom she reminisces about her hometown. She is welcoming to old and young, and has been called the “Mother of the Camp.”
Sheikha enjoys going on walks to get some fresh air at night with her 85-year-old daughter. Although she is illiterate, she speaks French. She’s looked after by four of her grandchildren, who live in the same camp.
Mrajeeb Al Fhood camp has 7,100 refugees, of which 85 are over 65. This age group has special treatment from camp management.
Salem Al Mazrouei, deputy manager of the camp, emphasised that all refugees are treated like family, particularly senior citizens.
*Wam
