Letter to my mother, August 26, 2018
Today when I heard about you I did not know what to do
I felt the entire world stop around me.
I don’t know what to say to you
No matter how much I could ever thank you, it would seem insignificant compared to everything you gave me
Mom, you taught me how to be a man,
But now that you left, who will guide me?
You were my northern star.
Sometime sons ask their moms,
Where are you going?
I never asked you, correct?
But today I would like to ask you
Where are you going without me?
It is not fair that you left without me
When you left, a peace of my soul left as well
Do you know how much I love you?
I love you more than myself.
Do you know how much I miss you?
I miss you like mothers miss their sons
You are the most delightful mother in the world.
Could you please come back to me?
Without you I will be alone, and no one will ever fill your place I am so sorry I was not there when you left, but I promise I will visit you as soon as I can
With love, Qusay
In Loving Memory of Dr. Qusay Hussein
1988 – 2025
“Do not let your disability stop you from doing what you want to accomplish. Never say, ‘I can’t,’ instead say, ‘I will try.’”
Dr. Qusay Hussein was a beacon of resilience, compassion, and quiet strength. At 17, he survived a suicide bombing in Mosul that left him blind and severely injured. After enduring over 60 reconstructive surgeries, he began a new chapter in the United States—learning English, pursuing education, and becoming a powerful advocate for refugees and people with disabilities.
In May 2025, he earned his PhD in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin, where he inspired countless students, faculty, and community leaders. At graduation, he was recognized with special honors for his extraordinary contributions to the field and to the community.
Through his memoir, Can You Open My Eyes?, and his lifelong service to others, Dr. Qusay leaves behind a legacy of courage and transformation that will continue to uplift future generations.
His body will be transported to his home country (Iraq) where he will be burried.
To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.
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This is so beautiful, Qusay. Your mom was a very special woman!