American detained in Syria reflects on 62 days of hardship

Sam Goodwin was on a mission to visit all 193 countries when he was detained in Syria in May 2019. He was captured near Qamishli and imprisoned without due process, spending 62 days in two different prisons. In solitary confinement, he endured harsh conditions and could hear other prisoners being beaten. In the second prison, he connected with fellow inmates, some of whom were political prisoners, and managed to smuggle messages to his family, who were uncertain about his fate. Goodwin's family faced significant challenges in locating him, as the federal government was not very helpful. They reached out to various contacts while trying to keep the situation discreet. A pivotal moment occurred when his sister, overwhelmed with worry, confided in her college roommate, which eventually led to General Abbas Ibrahim being informed about Goodwin's case. His release was facilitated through a complex network involving multiple organizations and individuals, including the FBI, CIA, and even Pope Francis. Despite the trauma of his experience, Goodwin expressed gratitude for the personal growth and connections he made during his ordeal. He now works with the Foley Foundation, advocating for others and sharing his story as a public speaker. His experiences have shaped his character and understanding of life’s important aspects, emphasizing resilience and overcoming adversity. Goodwin's story highlights the complexities of international detentions and the often inadequate responses from government agencies. His eventual release underscores the importance of personal connections and advocacy in securing the freedom of those wrongfully detained.