Helen Zaya Dallo | Digital Storytelling
Helen, married into the Arafat family, was born in Telkaif but moved to Baghdad before starting school. The family lived in various neighborhoods until they immigrated to America.
Helen recounts a tragic event from her childhood involving the drowning of her sister and aunt in a flood, which deeply affected her mother. Helen was born after this tragedy, and her mother was protective, fearing the evil eye. Helen grew up as the only girl among many brothers, taking on household responsibilities as her mother welcomed numerous relatives into their home.