IRVINE, Calif. – Words could not express Frishta Suha’s gratitude as she received a donation check raised by the Islamic Center of Irvine (ICOI) to help the family following a tragic hit-and-run accident that left her brother, Assad Suha, struggling for his life.

The 52-year-old father of four was riding his bicycle to work on Culver Drive in Irvine early morning on July 12 when he was struck by a vehicle. The driver remains unknown.

Assad sustained critical injuries in the accident and remained comatose for three weeks at Western Medical Center.

"When I first saw him, I thought I had walked into a horror scene. It was very difficult to see someone you love in that condition," Frishta said.

At one point, Assad’s prognosis was so grim that doctors asked the family to make a decision of whether to continue life support. But the family remained steadfast and gripped onto faith. "We weren’t ready to give up on him," Frishta said.

Assad has since regained consciousness but remains in serious condition with extensive fractures all over his body.

Assad’s family told InFocus he suffers from unilateral paralysis and is still unable to see or speak. Doctors have yet to determine the extent of Assad’s brain damage.

In the midst of this terrible tragedy, the Suhas believe the community’s support has made the difference. "We’re very grateful to the Muslim community and to all religious faiths that have been generous with their contributions and with their thoughts and prayers."

According to members of the mosque, ICOI is more than just a place of worship; it’s a community haven that works with numerous social service organizations to help individuals in dire circumstances.

"It is our responsibility as Muslims to provide support and assistance to those regardless of their ethnic background or faith. After all, one of the fundamental tenets of our faith as Muslims is to give ‘zakaat’," said Issa Edah-Tally, ICOI administrator.

While the accident has been very devastating, Frishta feels it has strengthened her faith. "I’ve realized what a pivotal role religion and prayers play in a person’s life and how important it is to have faith."

Those who wish to help can make contributions at www.suhafamilyfund.com.