Zubaida was just nine years old when her life changed forever. Living with her nomadic family in the remote province of Farah, Afghanistan, she was one of eight children growing up with few resources and even fewer options. In August 2001, a tragic accident occurred—while pouring kerosene into a home burner, the fuel ignited, engulfing her in flames. She suffered life-threatening burns to her face, neck, chest, and arms.
Local doctors in Afghanistan and nearby Iran did what they could, but after several attempts to treat her injuries, they told her father there was nothing more they could do. He should take her home—to die. But Zubaida didn’t give up. Despite unimaginable pain and emotional trauma, she survived.
In early 2002, desperate to save his daughter, Zubaida’s father reached out to the U.S. military. Doctors at an American base in Kabul saw her and immediately referred her to the U.S. State Department. That’s when Dr. Peter Grossman, a top plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Southern California, entered the picture. With help from the Children’s Burn Foundation, Zubaida was flown to the United States for treatment.
Over the next year, she underwent 12 major surgeries at the Grossman Burn Center. The results were extraordinary—not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well. While recovering in California, Zubaida learned English, started school for the very first time, and made close friends. By the time she turned 11 in March 2003, she was celebrating milestones most kids take for granted—like her first birthday party and first-ever sleepover.
Inspired by the team who helped heal her, Zubaida now dreams of becoming a pediatrician. She hopes to return to Afghanistan one day—not only to reunite with her family but to help children like herself rebuild their lives.
Zubaida’s story is one of incredible strength, resilience, and hope. Though she still bears physical scars, they do not define her. After briefly reuniting with her family—who remain in deep poverty—she continues to need financial support for education and ongoing medical care.
Her journey is a powerful reminder of how kindness, courage, and the will to survive can change a life—and maybe even change the world.
