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I called Radio Mindanao today at 3 pm PST to make the following appeal:  

Thank you for allowing me to speak on your radio program. My name is Carol Schilling and I am the mother of Jeffrey Schilling.  

I am asking your listeners for their help to secure the safe release of Jeffrey Schilling, a Muslim convert who is being held captive by the Abu Sayyaf on Jolo. I am asking you to please pray for my son. Please add your voice to mine when I appeal for his release.  

Jeffrey is a goodhearted, well-intentioned Muslim who regularly performed zakat (giving money) for the Filipino Muslim community and others in need.  

Holding Jeffrey captive is counterproductive for the goals of the Abu Sayyaf. It makes no sense for Abu Sayyaf to hold anyone against his will, most especially a fellow Muslim.  

Jeffrey is very sick. I am distressed by this news.  

The Abu Sayyaf knows how sick he is and can raise themselves in world opinion by releasing my son so he can get the medical care he needs.  

Jeffrey's Muslim name is Abdur Rahman, servant to the Most Merciful. Please join me in calling upon the Abu Sayyaf to show mercy by releasing Jeffrey Schilling safely and immediately.  

His wife, Ivy Osani, and I are desperate to hear that Jeffrey is free to reunite with us, especially on the occasion of his 25th birthday this coming Sunday.  

To Jeffrey I say “I love you, Jeffrey, and I pray every day for your safe and immediate release. I pray for your well-being. I pray for your heart, that you can feel the love we are sending to you.”  

Carol Schilling  

Oakland