Sawm of a gastric ulcer patient

Q: I was born in 1315 A.H. And I have been suffering from a gastric ulcer since 1380 A.H. Now I am nearly 87 years old. I used to fast the entire month of Ramadan every year in addition to fasting six days of the month of Shawwal. This year also, I intend to fast the month of Ramadan, if Allah wills, but I fear that I may not be able to complete it. What should I do if I cannot fast? I ask your Eminence to answer my question in this regard. May Allah reward you well!

A: If the reality is as you mentioned regarding your age, then you should fast the number of days that you are able to fast during the month of Ramadan. If, however, some days you are not able to fast, then you should feed a needy person for every day that you do not fast. You are not required to make up for these days. Allah (Exalted be He) says: So keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him as much as you can He also says: ...and He has not laid upon you in religion any hardship (Part No. 10; Page No. 164) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.