Hey all, it’s Maria, just a quick update on my mother’s case but first and foremost I want to begin by saying thank you. Every signature, every share and every message of support you gave to this petition reminded me that my mother is not forgotten and that alone has meant more to me than words can explain. Losing my mother to this nightmare has been beyond soul crushing, but nevertheless, I was raised by a woman who was built upon resilience so I have no doubt I will do everything I can to walk the same footsteps she left behind for me to trace. We uploaded a video of my mother, giving a heart felt thank you to EVERYONE who signed and continues to support.
I wanted to share an update with you since you all signed this petition. The truth is, our journey has continued, though not in the way we had hoped. My mother’s appeal has been rejected, my mother faced two failed appeals and she remains imprisoned overseas. Her conditions are extremely difficult, she is currently sleeping on the floor, begging for things as little as a blanket and warmth to cover herself and as many of you know, living with a heart condition, without her medication, she stand at risk of losing her. God forbid. This update hasn’t been easy to write, listening to my mother struggle to eat due to being unable to tolerate many foods. It’s been difficult. Our contact with her is limited, freedom to speak to my mother is based off the availability the online portal has and at most times, that’s extremely limited.
Despite this, I continue to fight for her. My mother is innocent and silence in the midst of her cries and screams is something I cannot accept.
So I’m here to give you all an update, an update I hope reaches the right ears and scrolls upon the correct gaze. On February 4, peaceful protests will be held in both Melbourne and Sydney. These protests are about standing together for justice, for humanity and for an Australian citizen and mother of 5 who deserves dignity and urgent action from her own country. Immediately. We underestimate how powerful this country is and I strongly believe, if we stand firmly together, we can push for my mother to be sent back to Australia. At least that allows us to monitor her more and continue to fight without losing contact.
If you are able to attend, share the message or PLEASE simply help amplify her story, I would be deeply grateful. If you’re interested in attending, please click the link below! This allows me to keep track of the numbers, as keep in mind, we’re standing in TWO different states. Nothing is impossible with God on your side.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1sacXs3IQXcupUUTcKcVyB-bqoJaA4hTzG9rHqp1SqQg/edit#responses
I know this wasn’t an update you were all looking for, but, that’s life! We stand stronger and more firm in knowing our mother’s truth and not surrendering to anyone, apart from God himself.
My mother is a woman of great resilience and class, so it makes nothing but pure sense that she’s raised strong and stubborn children who refuse to give up on a fight.
With the year coming to an end, I ask that you all hold your loved ones tightly. This world is evil and cruel, and betrayal doesn’t come from strangers. Hold your children close, hold your parents close and never fail to remind them how much you value them.
Thank you for believing in my mother. Thank you for standing with us. Your support continues to give us strength on days when this fight feels overwhelming and heavy. I hope the next year is kinder on you all. I pray whatever heart ache you carry today, is soon met with safe hands, ease and comfort. You got this soldiers.
#VOICEFORDEBBIE
With love, truth and respect always,
Maria Voulgari, yes, Voulgari, because there’s great honour behind this family name. And I wouldn’t choose to live and carry myself in any other way.