by Dr Tay-yibah Mohamed
Hajj 2025 will be upon us soon, and it is only natural for us to reflect on our experience as doctors during Hajj last year.
Before Fajr on the day of Arafat, Mina was bustling as everyone was getting ready to set off for the most arduous day of Hajj. Someone called out, looking for a doctor. A woman had collapsed in the corridor; she had been experiencing vomiting for the past 24 hours. She looked hot, clammy, and was slumped on the floor. She was trying to take oral rehydration solution but was unable to keep it down. As an anaesthetist by background, all I wanted to do was cannulate her and administer a bag of IV fluids—alas, I was not practising medicine in my usual environment.
Fortunately, I had some fast-acting chewable electrolytes (an essential item to pack, by the way), which helped her perk up. I think she had low blood sugar and she was unable to tolerate oral intake. She mustered up the energy to return to her tent. She was distraught—afraid that she would not be able to complete her Hajj because of how weak she felt. She had been preparing for years. I asked around the group and managed to source some anti-sickness tablets. Alhamdulillah, she made it to Arafat and completed her Hajj, albeit in a wheelchair.
Hajj, as a doctor, reminds us of the wisdom in the basic Sunnah. Al-Hakeem commanded us to take care of our hygiene long before germ theory was understood. Infectious diseases are rife in the crowds—wash your hands before and after eating. It’s also a good idea to travel with fragrance-free soap during the days of Hajj.
Hajj reminds us of the strength of the Ummah—we are gathered, united, without distractions, pleading for forgiveness from our Lord. As doctors, we are in unique positions to help others. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also launches many health initiatives—Hajj clinics can be found marked with the Red Crescent by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. Here you can be seen by clinicians and receive free emergency medicine.
Hajj is full of constant reminders—nothing in life is guaranteed. The woman was usually fit and well; she was not expecting to complete her Hajj in a wheelchair. Allah tests us to purify us and wash away our sins. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“No calamity befalls a Muslim but that Allah expiates some of his sins because of it, even if it were the prick of a thorn.”
[Bukhari, Muslim]
I pray those who are going for Hajj this year have their duas accepted, their sins forgiven and come back with their faith refreshed.
Ameen
