I am from Rojava, a Kurdish region of Syria. After my medical training in Damascus I practised as a gynaecologist there for 14 years. My career was successful; I had many patients in my own clinic and owned a house, a car and a farm.

When the war started in 2011 life became very difficult for doctors. Both sides in the conflict wanted me to work for them as a surgeon and I received many threats. Doctors’ families were also vulnerable and kidnapping for ransom money was common.

Between 2011 and 2014 we moved around a lot in Syria and Kurdistan to protect my children. When the area we were living in was bombed I decided to leave the country, but my husband and the children remained in Syria. Many people helped me get to the UK. I was glad I made the journey on my own. I wouldn’t have wanted the children to be in danger, to see what I saw or to go without food for days.

When I arrived in the UK I was granted refugee status and given leave to remain. With the help of a solicitor I was able to bring my family to the UK safely. A few days after their arrival in Newcastle my daughter asked if we could see the water. I took her to the spot by the riverside where my photo was taken. She said ‘Mum, I feel free, I feel happy, I’m not frightened. Can we stay here?’

Now they are here my children can become good, well educated people who will help others when they are experiencing difficult times. And I am studying hard so I can pass my Occupational English Test and practise as a doctor again.

Hadrian’s Wall Path, near Newcastle Business Park