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a new start: Memoona Khatoon with sons Arbaaz, Faisal and Afzal. pic/sameer markande

Memoona Khatoon (30), who lost her husband Mohammed Umar Abdul Khalik (35) in the blast in a taxi at Vile Parle on 26/11, believes that God has been kind to her.

A woman has paid her eldest son's school fees for the entire academic year and last week, she received Rs 5.15 lakh as government compensation.

Memoona, who is uneducated, now has the responsibility of her three children Arbaaz (6), Faisal (3), and Afzal (1). "Ten days ago, I got a call from Arbaaz's school saying that a women has paid his fees," said Memoona. 
 
She was initially unaware of the tragedy that struck her that night. She said, "Like any normal day, my husband went for work, but did not return. I called him at 10 am the next day, but his phone could not be reached. My father called me in the afternoon and broke the news. At first, I didn't believe him."

Arbaaz, a student of Anjuman Islam School, Govandi,  said, "I want join the defence forces, so that I can gun down every terrorist." He added that his mother has been his strength.

When asked about coping with the grief, Memoona said, "I have to give my children a good education. I'll  learn tailoring to support my children. I am very touched by the generosity of people."