Working at Hospice Austin, we have the privilege of meeting so many extraordinary people. Patients whose stories leave lasting impressions.
One such patient was Qusay Hussein, Ph.D., a bright, shining light whose legacy continues to inspire all who had the honor of knowing him. His journey reminds us all to keep going, and to always use our experiences—both painful and joyful—to make a difference.
At 17 years old, Qusay survived a suicide bombing in Iraq. A traumatic event that left him scarred and blind. He endured 70 reconstructive surgeries, but his legacy was never defined by tragedy. Instead, he turned his experience into a force for change. Dedicating his life to advocating for marginalized communities and those with disabilities.
A few months before his death, Qusay was able to publish his memoir. In Can You Open My Eyes?, Qusay shares his deeply personal reflections to bring the reader “an intimate look at what it means to rebuild identity from the inside out.”
Qusay’s perseverance was remarkable:
• After earning the second-highest GED score in his region, he went on to receive an associate degree from Austin Community College in 2018.
• In 2021, he graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and social work.
• By 2022, he had earned his master’s degree from the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at UT Austin.
Qusay dedicated his life to advocacy, learning English, Spanish, and Braille so he could better serve others. He spent 12 years in school to become a social worker. He made it his mission to help others heal from trauma just as he was helped. His passion was to give back, to lift others up, and to make the world a more compassionate place.
When he arrived at Hospice Austin’s Christopher House, his goal was to walk the stage at commencement. At Hospice Austin, we strive to create meaningful moments for our patients and lasting memories for their families.
For Qusay, that moment was a private graduation ceremony in the courtyard of Hospice Austin’s Christopher House. He was also able to walk the stage to receive his Ph.D. from the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at UT Austin.
Qusay’s legacy is one that will live on.
