JAKARTA —-— In a narrow alley cutting through the densely populated Pancoran neighborhood in South Jakarta, there is a single-room rental unit measuring 3×2 square meters. The room, which rents for 700,000 rupiah a month, now feels quieter than usual. There, Mr. Solihin (45) lies weak, far from his wife and five-year-old son in Sragen, Central Java.
Misfortune struck this mobile coffee vendor after a recurring flood overflowed and submerged his rented room. The doctor’s diagnosis was grim: Mr. Solihin had suffered food poisoning that had compromised his liver function. Initially, it was suspected that he had contracted a virus from rat feces carried by floodwater into his living space, leaving behind a fatal pathogen. Starting with a high fever and abdominal pain, he is now forced to stop pushing his mobile coffee cart—the sole source of income for his small family.
“My daily gross income is around Rp200,000,” said Mr. Solihin.
Since falling ill, Mr. Solihin’s livelihood has come to a standstill. He even struggles to care for himself. Fortunately, his older sister, Nursania, who lives not far away, often makes time amidst her household chores to help Mr. Solihin with his medical treatment. However, the ongoing costs of living and medical care have become an increasingly crushing burden.
“Since there’s no one else to take care of him, and our other relatives are far away. But I also have my own family,” said Mrs. Nursania.
Seeing this distressing situation, ROIS OJK, through Dompet Dhuafa, stepped in to extend a chain of kindness. As the trusted distributor of donations, Dompet Dhuafa provided a cash assistance of Rp10 million as part of the Dhuafa Relief Program during the month of Ramadan 1447 Hijri and to cover medical expenses.
Read also: A 5-Day, 630-KM Journey of Longing: A Homecoming Warrior Cycles to Gunung Kidul
According to medical recommendations, Mr. Solihin needs at least three months to recover. This assistance serves as a “ray of hope” so he can focus on his recovery without worrying about rent or daily food expenses. His hope is simple yet deeply meaningful: that Mr. Solihin may recover soon, regain his strength, and embrace his family back home with a smile.
“I want to get well soon and start trading again. Right now, I’m still taking my medicine regularly. Being sick is unpleasant; good health is priceless. Thank you so much for your donation, because it’s truly been a blessing for me,” said Mr. Solihin.
Let’s continue to spread kindness together with Dompet Dhuafa for those in need through Dompet Dhuafa Donations. Because your generosity means the world to those in need. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photos: Dhika
Editor: Dedi Fadlil