Sinani, a 50-year-old Saudi, who weighs 250 kg, has been rendered immobile because of his obesity and has been confined to bed for the last four years, yet he is ineligible for social security. Dr. Ali Al-Hanaki, Director of Social Affairs in Makkah Region, said that Al-Sinani needs aid urgently because of his health and financial circumstances, but explained that his condition does not qualify as a disability. He added that Social Affairs has referred Al-Sinani's case to some charitable societies and asked them to help him as much as they can. Al-Sinani used to work as an expeditor, “mouaqeb”, until his weight made it difficult for him to walk and he lost his job. He said that he has sought treatment in both government and private hospitals but without success. “Everyone has abandoned me, even my relatives with the exception of my 12-year-old nephew. They have all left me to my fate. I eat, drink and urinate in my bed. I live in a three-meter room without air-conditioning,” he said. Al-Sinani said that neither charitable societies nor Social Security have provided him with any assistance. He said that he applied to Social Security for financial aid nine months ago but has not received any help, even though “social security authorities are very much aware of my ordeal and circumstances.”
