How DIWA Brought Biju Back Home
A story of solidarity, sacrifice and a community that refused to leave one of their own behind.
On the morning of March 27th, Joseph Dominic — known to everyone as Biju — collapsed at his workplace in Khorfakkan. He was 48 years old and had arrived in the UAE just months earlier, with one dream: to give his family in Mararikulam, Alappuzha a better life.
That morning changed everything. Rushed to Khorfakkan Hospital, Biju was placed in the ICU with severe hypertension and bleeding in the brain. He lost movement on the left side of his body and could no longer speak. Doctors were clear, without urgent specialist treatment in India, his chances were grim.
Back in Kerala, his wife Mrs. Arsha and their two young children waited in anguish — unable to travel, unable to afford the cost of repatriation flight. Medically-assisted DIWA members visited Biju personally at the hospital. What they saw moved them deeply. Within days, an urgent appeal was sent to the entire DIWA community and the residents of Dibba. The response was extraordinary. AED 18,602 was raised through collective contributions — from members who gave AED 20 to others that gave AED 500 and many more in between. Every dirham carried the weight of a community that believes no one should face crisis alone.
On 26th May, Biju was flown home to Kerala in business class, with full medical life-support and a trained nurse by his side. AED 7,000 from the fund covered his travel. DIWA did not just raise money — they made sure he was safe every step of the way.
DIWA patrons Mr. Rajettan and Mr. Nishad personally visited the Indo-American Hospital, Kottayam. They handed the remaining contributions directly to Mrs. Arsha — ensuring the family could continue his recovery without financial burden.
Today we are proud to share: Biju’s health has improved significantly. Doctors expect a full recovery with continued treatment. The family has expressed their deepest gratitude to every member and resident who stepped forward. This is what DIWA stands for — not just an association, but a living community that shows up when it matters most. Biju is home. And he is healing.
“ We are not just an association. We are family. And we do not leave family behind.”
— DIWA Executive Committee, Secretary & President | Dibba Indian Welfare Association (DIWA)
“Together we are stronger. Together we bring people home.” Dibba Al Fujairah, UAE
