My name is Youssef. I am a Glasgow University graduate, with a degree in aeronautical engineering, and I am living with Fabry disease – a rare neurological condition for which I cannot receive treatment in Egypt.  On the 16th of May, I was detained by the Home Office and threatened with deportation. Thankfully, with the support of my partner Sarah and my lawyer, I was saved from deportation - but I need your help to stay in the UK, which is my home. 

For the last eight years in the UK, I studied, adapted to Scottish culture and became a valued member of this society. I’ve built relationships, made friends and met my soulmate Sarah and her family, who became my family. Being in the UK means hope to me, where I found there is a chance to receive treatment for my rare medical condition and be with my family. It made me believe in possibility, be optimistic about the future, and have a sense of purpose. After these long years full of experiences, I am part of this community and want to contribute towards it. 

Being detained, made to feel like a criminal, unclear of my rights and unable to have my medical needs met, left me and my family terrified for my safety. My partner Sarah has described my detention as ‘a harrowing’ experience as she feared daily for my mental and physical health. Without leave to remain, this could happen to me again. 

The UK is my home - my partner, my friends and my community are all here. If I were forced to return to Egypt, I would lose those closest to me and would be unable to receive the medical care I need to stay alive.  Staying in the UK, which is my home, is the difference between life and death for me. 

Please help me by signing my petition to grant me leave to remain.