Taking Care of Family

Sarah Kittle
Edior in Chief

As the days grow cooler and shorter, many of us take time to reflect on what matters most—and for Chaldeans, that often begins with family.

Our cover story is a true family affair: five cousins from the Thomas family—Alison (OUWB ’20), Christina (M2), and incoming students Jackie, Julianne, and Jacob—have all chosen to pursue medicine at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Inspired by Alison’s experience and the school’s supportive culture, each cousin has followed their own path to the same place, united by shared values of service and community.

This month’s guest columns examine the painful reality of familial separation, whether through deportation or the difficult decision to place a loved one in assisted living. Because Chaldeans hold family above all else, these are serious topics. We’ve provided advice and resources to help elders stay active, engaged, and safe—from avoiding scams that target seniors to recognizing that many in this generation are far from done contributing to society.

We also share stories about nurturing the next generation, including Hamsa Yaqo’s vision for Kintsugi Village, and a woman whose research into her Afghan roots uncovered ties to Tel Keppe and Michigan’s Chaldean American community.

At CCF West, the Chaldean Community Foundation’s jewel in West Bloomfield, a new season of programming is about to begin. From cooking and language classes to senior wellness and cultural workshops, Program Coordinator Farah Shammami is shaping CCF West into a true hub for health, connection, and heritage.

Other highlights include a feature on the remarkable counselors in our community—from pioneers to prodigies—plus updates on the Mar Eliya Retreat Center in Oxford, a new Chaldean Catholic church in Calgary, and the second installment on Jewish Shrines in Iraq.

In this issue, you’ll also find Linda Abbo’s unique torshi recipe in Chaldean Kitchen, Noah Manna’s accomplishments on the court in Sports, and a Health & Wellness piece that takes us “back to the roots.” We close with a heartfelt thank you from the publisher’s father, written after the passing of his beloved wife.

As we turn the page on another season, may we continue to honor our families, support our elders, and guide the next generation with love and purpose.

Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief