Khaleej Times 

ABU DHABI — JUN 15: A 74-year-old Iranian-American, longing for affection and attention of his family members, who went missing from the United States three months ago, is recuperating in Abu Dhabi’s Shaikh Khalifa Medical City.

He, however, can’t recall why he chose to travel to UAE without the knowledge of his family members back in the US.

Speaking from his hospital bed, a feeble-looking Ahmad Walizadeh Gilani, told this reporter: “I was in the US three months ago. I came to this country about a month back. I do not remember how I got lost, but a friend of mine brought me to this hospital.”

Feeling lonely

After the news of Gilani’s disappearance was posted on the web and broadcast on radio in Iran, the UAE authorities and the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi made efforts to locate him. When asked why he left the US, Gilani answered: “I felt lonely. I was upset with my children. They love me but they don’t listen to what I say. I love the US and I want to go back, but I need someone to take care of me. 

“I feel lonely and I need all my family, relatives and friends to stay around me.” 

With hands trembling and tear-filled eyes, he urged: “I need someone to take care of me like a child in the US. I need help. I want all my brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces who are in the US to be around me. I feel lonely.” 

Gilani said he has been staying in America for the past 40 years and he is now drawing pension. “All my family members work. My son and my daughter have got jobs and my wife also is working. 

“Now I feel better in the hospital, but still my body is aching. I was told my wife will come this week but I am not sure. Please, I need someone to take me home and take care of me,” said Gilani.