When smoking took his legs, fatherhood kept him standing

…dad of 5 tells his story of resilience

Fathers often leave lasting footprints in the lives of their children and this is achieved through lessons taught, sacrifices made and every milestone shared, as they guide their children along life’s journey, leaving marks that time can never erase.

But what happens when a father loses the very feet that carry those footsteps?

For 67-year-old Siddiqi Haniff, that question became a reality more than four decades ago.

Years of heavy cigarette smoking led to severe health complications that resulted in the loss of both of his legs. Yet while the illness took away his ability to walk, it did not take away his ability to lead.

Today, as a father of five, Haniff’s story stands out among the many residents who attended the recent Region Three outreach, serving as a beacon for other men to quit smoking.

His journey serves as a reminder that the true measure of fatherhood is not found in the steps a man takes, but in the path, he creates for those who follow him. It proves that a father’s greatest footprints are not made on the ground, but in the hearts of those he loves.

Life-changing consequences

This publication caught up with Haniff during the outreach, where he reflected on fatherhood, resilience and the life-changing consequences of smoking.

Getting into the heart of the matter, he recounted his long struggle with cigarette addiction.

“I used to smoke very heavily. In fact, in 1990, I began experiencing some pain in my calf when I walked. I went to Georgetown Hospital and saw a doctor, who examined me, reviewed my habits, and informed me that I was suffering from a condition called Buerger’s disease. It is very rare in Guyana.”

Buerger’s disease is a rare condition that causes inflammation and blockage of blood vessels, primarily in the arms and legs and is strongly associated with tobacco use.

Haniff explained that his condition was relatively rare in Guyana at the time and believes it was largely caused by years of heavy smoking. He said smoking caused his arteries to harden and narrow, restricting blood flow throughout his body.

According to him, the situation was further complicated as his blood became thicker making circulation even more difficult. As a result, his arteries struggled to supply enough blood to his muscles when they were active, leading to persistent cramps and other complications that eventually contributed to the loss of both of his legs.

“The doctor encouraged me to stop smoking. I had never seen anything like that before. He told me I could lose my legs. I found it very difficult to stop smoking. I felt that I could never quit. I was very addicted to it. Eventually, I lost both my legs. After that, I managed to quit smoking.”

According to Haniff, he paid a heavy price for being reluctant to give up the habit. However, he said he never allowed the loss of his legs to define him.

“But even though I lost my legs, I always tell myself one thing, life goes on. I also remind myself that God does not give anyone a burden heavier than they can carry.”

No burden to others

Despite the challenges, Haniff said he made a conscious decision not to become a burden to others.

“So I told myself I’m not going to be wheelchair-bound or bedridden. I am going to make myself, instead of being someone who depends on others, an asset instead of a burden. I had always been doing sign painting and similar work, so I continued with that business. With the help of family and friends, I am managing quite well.”

When asked how important family support had been throughout his journey as a father, Haniff said it played an important role in helping him continue providing for his children.

“Well, by the time I lost my legs, my children were teenagers. With the help of family and friends, I managed to take them through school and everything. As you can see, my daughter here works with Guyana Water Inc., and we are doing quite well.”

Amidst it all, Haniff said his journey through marriage, fatherhood, and life has been both fulfilling and rewarding.

“I’ve had two marriages, and all my children are well trained, well respected, and they live good lives.”

Pic saved as Saddiqi Haniff 1

Caption: 67-Year-Old Siddiqi Haniff and his grandson at Government outreach in Region 3 on Friday

Pic saved as Saddiqi Haniff