The Compassionate Life of a Foster Parent for Terminally Ill Children

Meet Mohamed Bzeek, a remarkable man in Los Angeles who has devoted his life to caring for some of the most vulnerable children in foster care. As one of the few foster parents for terminally ill children, Bzeek has opened his home and heart to over 80 children since 1989, many arriving in their final weeks, with no family to hold them. As a dedicated foster parent for terminally ill children, Bzeek provides love, comfort, and dignity to those who need it most.

A Lifelong Mission of Love

Born in Libya, Bzeek came to the U.S. in the late 1970s. He and his wife Dawn began fostering in 1989 and later made a life-changing decision: to care specifically for terminally ill children whom no one else would take. Over the decades, he has welcomed these children into his home, often as their only family in their final days. His unwavering commitment brings comfort and peace to children facing unimaginable challenges. For Mohamed, every child deserves to feel loved and cared for, no matter how short their time may be.

Providing Comfort to the Forgotten

Los Angeles County’s Department of Children and Family Services recognizes Bzeek as the only foster parent willing to take children “who would possibly not make it.” In some cases, they are blind, deaf, bedridden, or facing life-limiting conditions.

One deeply touching example: a six-year-old girl with severe brain abnormalities now lives with Bzeek despite being diagnosed to live only a few weeks. He cradles her through seizures, holds her as she drifts in and out of consciousness, and, as he says, reminds her she is not alone .

Endurance Through Heartbreak

Ten of these children have passed away in Bzeek’s arms . Yet, he continues, driven by deep compassion and faith. When asked why he chooses such heartbreak, he told PEOPLE magazine, “They need somebody to love them. They have a soul.”

Why This Matters

Bzeek’s story shines light on the critical need for more foster parents for terminally ill children. Most foster families cannot or will not care for kids with intense medical needs. Bzeek fills a vital gap, giving sick children the dignity of care, human connection, and love in their final days.

Join the Cause

Mohamed Bzeek shows us that one person truly can change lives. You can support heroes like Mohamed by:

• Learning more about medical foster parenting
• Advocating for better policies and support
• Donating to support foster famlies get the resources they need to thrive
• Consider becoming a foster parent for terminally ill children

Support Mohamed Bzeek’s Mission

Caring for terminally ill children takes extraordinary emotional strength and financial resources. Mohamed Bzeek provides 24/7 care, often covering extra medical and household expenses himself to ensure these children are safe, comfortable, and loved.

If you’re moved by his story, you can help. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Mohamed in continuing this vital work. Donations help cover medical supplies, home care essentials, and the specialized equipment many of these children need.