FUNDRAISER: Supporters in Saskatoon shell out to help stricken refugee claimant from Pakistan

THE CANADIAN PRESS

Nadeem Bhatti (right) held a fundraiser for his friend Saleem Akhtar in Saskatoon, Sask. Photo taken Dec. 9, 2012. Richard Marjan/Postmedia News

SASKATOON — A group in Saskatoon has raised $600 for a man undergoing treatment for cancer while he awaits word on whether his refugee claim will be accepted.

The group staged a fundraiser Monday night for Saleem Akhtar, who arrived in Saskatoon this summer from Pakistan but was diagnosed with cancer soon after.

Federal officials refused to provide coverage for parts of his treatment under new rules to prevent abuse of the health-care system, but the province stepped in to provide coverage for his medical needs.

Akhtar is a Christian who fled Pakistan after being shot and threatened by extremists.

He told the fundraiser that despite his illness, all he cares about is bringing his wife and children to Canada.

Event organizer Nadeem Bhatti says the fundraiser will help pay for Akhtar’s living expenses.





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