“Stay strong”—with these touching words, the late Palestinian journalist Mariam Abo Dagga said goodbye to her 12-year-old son, Ghaith, through a deeply personal will meant to be unveiled after her passing.
Abo Dagga was among at least 15 individuals killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital on Monday. The attack also claimed the lives of three other journalists, drawing widespread condemnation from human rights groups and international observers.
Mariam, aged 33, had a distinguished career reporting for outlets like Independent Arabia and the Associated Press. In her final words to her son, penned in the Palestinian dialect, she affectionately wrote: “Ghaith, you are your mother’s heart and soul.”
Stay updated with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
She encouraged him to continue her legacy of resilience and ambition: “I want you to make me proud, to succeed, to excel, to stand strong, and to become a successful businessman, my love,” she expressed.
The message, which has been shared online, illustrates Mariam’s vision for Ghaith’s future. She envisioned him marrying, having a daughter, and naming her Mariam, preserving a part of her in future generations.
“I want you, my dear, never to forget me. I always did everything to bring you joy and comfort, and to give you everything,” she added. “I want you to pray for me and not mourn, so I can stay happy.”
Concluding her message with a poignant reminder of faith and love, Mariam urged Ghaith never to miss his prayers and reaffirmed her unwavering pride and affection: “You are my love, my heart, my support, my soul, and my son who always makes me proud and brings me joy with his good reputation… Your mother, Mariam.”
