
"All this doesn't faze Hikmat. She views herself as a flag-bearer of a new Iraq, a country she hopes will find its equilibrium in time for her to live a peaceful life as a teacher.
Her father died five years ago; her mother, a teacher, has raised her son and daughter alone since then.
Her family was forced to move during the fighting because their landlord raised the rent. Even now, bound for the Olympics, she trains in a pair of second-hand counterfeit Nike sneakers she bought for $10, their fabric so worn out it's almost see-through.
Despite those experiences, she doesn't repeat the commonly voiced complaints heard in Baghdad."
I will continue to find out if there are other ways to help this brave young lady and let you know.
Thanks Fayrouz and Ladybird!! GO IRAQ!