Iraqi girl being treated in U.S. for spinal defect will be joined by mother

An 8-year-old Iraqi girl who is receiving medical treatment in the U.S. for a spinal birth defect will soon be joined by her mother.

Photo: Iraqi girl being treated in U.S. for spinal defect will be joined by mother

Gufran Alayass came to Blount County, Tennessee, last summer with her father, Abdul, to get treatment for spina bifida. Her mother had stayed behind but will join the family later this week after getting a visa on Tuesday, The Daily Times newspaper reported Wednesday.

Senator Lamar Alexander helped speed the visa process by writing a letter to the consular affairs officer at the American embassy in Jordan, where Zeinab has been waiting.

Gufran's doctors, who will be repairing a hole in the base of her spine, also wrote a letter explaining that her mother's presence will help Gufran recover from the surgery.

"Having her mom here is going to make all the difference in the world," said Laura Ousley, who is housing the family while they are in Tennessee. "She keeps a brave face."

Soldiers from the 278th Regimental Combat Team based in Kentucky helped the family get to neighboring Tennessee for treatment, reports AP.

O.Ch.