The Journey of Refuge and Hope: A Community’s Impact on a Father’s Story
This is the story of a father who fled Albania in 1990 and found a new life in the U.S., and of his daughter, Drina, who, inspired by his journey, is now dedicated to helping refugees. Their story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and the lasting impact that happened because of your support.
Escaping Albania: A Story of Survival
“My dad came to the US as a refugee from Albania when he was 26 years old. He decided to leave because Albania was under a harsh communist regime, and he felt he had no future there. He has told me about how his family, like many others, struggled to have enough food because of government rationing. There was no freedom of speech, and everything was tightly controlled by the government, even access to media. He escaped with a friend and stayed in a refugee camp in Belgrade, Serbia, before being transferred to Chicago. Once he arrived in Chicago, World Relief became his resettlement agency.”
A New Beginning: The Community That Made a Difference
Upon arriving in Chicago, Drina’s father found a community that made all the difference.
“I remember first hearing about World Relief when my dad would talk about Paul and Linda, two volunteers who became his sponsors when he first arrived. He would tell us how they showed him around Chicago, helped him with his English, and became his first friends in a strange new country. These stories left a deep impression on me. It showed me that World Relief wasn’t just an agency—it was a community of people who genuinely cared and went out of their way to make refugees feel at home.”
It wasn’t just about getting by—it was about creating a foundation for a new life. The love and generosity from people like Paul and Linda provided more than practical support; they gave Drina’s father something invaluable: hope.
A Daughter’s Calling: Giving Back to Refugees
Inspired by her father’s journey, Drina began volunteering with World Relief in high school, mentoring a young refugee from Burma. “It was such a meaningful experience. I formed a close bond with her and her family, learning about their culture and struggles. I continued volunteering throughout college, and it reinforced my desire to help refugees.”
Drina went on to study Medicine and Health at Vanderbilt University. She knew she needed to understand not just the healthcare needs of refugees, but the broader challenges they face in adjusting to life in a new country.
The Refugee Healthcare Internship: Strengthening Her Resolve
Drina became a refugee healthcare intern at World Relief combining her passion for medicine with her commitment to refugees. “This internship not only solidified my desire to become a physician, but it deepened my commitment to working with refugees, ensuring they receive the healthcare they deserve after enduring so much.”
The Power of Community Support
Reflecting on her father’s journey, Drina sees how pivotal community support was. “World Relief wasn’t just an agency—it was a lifeline. My dad didn’t just survive; he thrived because of the community that embraced him. This support was about much more than housing or food—it gave him the tools and confidence to rebuild his life.”
Her father’s experience highlights this profound truth: that the kindness of others can create lasting change, not just for individuals, but for generations. The act of showing up, offering support, and simply being there for someone in need can turn a life around.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Hope
Drina’s journey to become a physician is fueled by her commitment to advocating for refugees and underserved populations. “I want to provide quality healthcare and continue the work of helping refugees rebuild their lives, just as others once helped my father.”
Her story is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that both financial and volunteer support from the community can have. Just as Drina’s father found hope and a new beginning through the kindness of others, you can make a lasting difference in the lives of refugees today. Your financial support can help provide the resources, care, and support they need to heal, thrive, and contribute to our shared community. Join us in continuing this vital work—because when we stand together, we create lasting change.