When I was five, I experienced a life changing event when I was involved in a serious car accident that severely injured my right leg. Initially, I received treatment in my hometown Adwa, but it became clear that I required more specialized care. After two years of enduring pain and limited mobility, I was fortunate to meet Norman and Ruthie Perdue, founders of an NGO called COEEF, who visited my school Lem Lem Atsede in Adwa town. They recognized my situation and facilitated my transfer to a pediatric hospital called Shriners in Utah where I would receive the comprehensive medical care I needed.

The journey to Utah was not easy, as it involved numerous process and arrangements, but it marked the beginning of a beautiful chapter in my life. I spent two years in Utah during which I underwent two significant surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. Throughout this challenging period, I was incredibly lucky to have the unwavering support and care of Norm and Ruthie. They went above and beyond to ensure my comfort and wellbeing while I experience life in a wheelchair. Their kindness and dedication made my stay in Utah a positive experience, filled with cherished memories that I hold dear to this day.

After completing my treatment, I returned home carrying with me not only the physical healing but also a deep sense of gratitude for the people who helped me along the way. I missed Norm and Ruthie immensely, and I was relieved to find that our connection remained strong. We have continued to stay in touch over the years, which has been a source of comfort and joy for me. I also want to thank the Newbold family whom I called my family in Utah.

In 2019, I had a wonderful opportunity to meet Suzanne, Rick Egan, and other volunteers and members of COEEF who brought me a laptop for my studies from Michael Patrick Conner, Jr. who is a friend of Norm Perdue.

Suzanne began sponsoring me, further demonstrating the lasting impact of this organization on my life. Years later while pursuing my medical studies in Axum, I faced the challenges of being pregnant among war in Tigray. Thank GOD we survived after three whole years of suffrage.

I had to continue my studies and raise a baby, and Suzanne made it all easier, to be honest I don’t know what would happen to me if it wasn’t for her.

Today I am a fourth year medical student and a proud mother of a two years and seven month old baby girl. I am deeply grateful for the kindness and assistance I received and I am still receiving from Suzanne and everyone at COEEF.

Thanks to their support and GOD’s grace, I have overcome significant obstacles and continue to pursue my dreams.

-Firtuna Birush