Yousef Mohamed’s attempt to build a new life for his family in Canada took a tragic turn in early December.

The 56-year-old businessman, a father of four, was shot and left for dead during a suspected robbery attempt gone wrong at his money transferring shop along 17 Ave. S.E.

The offenders remain at large.

Yousef Mohamed’s wife, name withheld, says the father of her children is a kind and respectful man.

"Somebody who likes his friends and his neighbourhood,” said the shooting victim’s wife. “A very kind person. He likes peace. A peaceful man.”

The family's children are between 18 months and 13 years old.

Mohamed has owned and operated the Dahab Exchange for more than eight years and the store has become a hub for members of Calgary’s Somali and North African community.

The family’s relocation to Canada allowed them the opportunity to escape the troubles of their homeland. Mohamed’s wife says the couple has been happy and the change of scenery had been good for their ‘nice, small family’.

The Mohamed family’s life was shattered on the night of December 5, 2014. Minutes before closing time at the Dahab Exchange, a single customer remained.

The lone client was buying a calling card and chatting with Yousef when two masked men burst in to the establishment, armed with guns.

"He kicked the door first, you know, with the gun,” said the customer who asked for anonymity. “I realized the area, the scene, is not safe so that's why I decided to run away."

As the customer fled, a gunshot was fired.

Yousef Mohamed was shot in the mouth but managed to make his way to a neighbouring restaurant for help.

Nearly a week and a half after the incident, Mohamed remains in hospital. He is unable to speak or see his children, but he understands what happened.  

Despite the severe damage from the gunshot, Mohamed’s wife is hopeful her husband will eventually return to the job he loves.

"I like to think about the good things in future."

Without an income, without a caring father to help with their four children, Mohamed's wife questions how she will make ends meet.

Members of Calgary’s Somali community are in the process of arranging a trust fund to help the family.

Police continue to search for the two suspects. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Calgary Police Service, 403-266-1234, or Crime Stoppers.