Abdullah’s treatment is just one of the many success stories of the Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. By providing the treatment needed for a congenital cranial condition, the organisation has successfully helped young Abdullah to lead a more fulfilling childhood. This would simply not have been possible without “The Child Fund”, which provides financial aid for treatment and medical caretothose who cannot afford it.

A Journey of Hope

The birth of their first child, Abdullah, an Egyptian national born in 2023, was a moment of great joy for his parents. However, this happiness soon gave way to grave concern, when they learned that he had been born with a cranial birth defect.

Abdullah’s mother had been dreaming of her son’s future as one of boundless possibilities but, with this diagnosis, she found that she had to temper these expectations. Instead, she was now concentrating solely on ensuring that her son could live with as few constraints in life as possible. This unforeseen challenge has undeniably turned her world upside down, but she stood strong alongside her husband and they remained hopeful that their child could enjoy the same quality of life that all children deserve.

According to Abdullah’s father, nothing seemed out of the ordinary at birth. However, when Abdullah had his first vaccine at Al Aweer Health Centre in Dubai, a paediatrician noticed an irregularity in the formation of his head and it was advised that treatment should commence before Abdullah turned six months old. This devastating news was enough for the family to contend with, but it was made all the more difficult when it was realised that the treatment required would not be covered by the family’s health insurance.

Seeking reassurance, Abdullah’s father consulted another doctor, hoping for a different diagnosis, but the second opinion supported the findings of the paediatrician at Al Aweer Health Centre—Abdullah had a congenital cranial deformity that required urgent medical attention. As such, the doctor suggestedthat Abdullah’s treatment should continue at a major hospital. It was at this point where Abdullahwas referred to Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropicarm of Dubai Health, known for its advanced medical capabilities through Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital.

The Turning Point

After a thorough case review, the Al Jalila Foundation confirmed the approval for Abdullah’s treatment, with full financial coverage. This support was provided through Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital under “The Child Fund”.For the beleaguered family whose hopes rested solely on the foundation’s financial aid to help their son, the news came as some relief and allowed them to begin to see a way forward.

At Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital, Abdullah underwent a comprehensive medical assessment, including cranial imaging to precisely determine the extent of the condition. Based on the findings, the doctors recommended a treatment plan involving a medically designed helmet to gradually reshape his head and restore it to its natural shape. The six-month treatment plan called for frequent check-ups to guarantee the intended outcome.

The treatment plan was initiated with hopeful anticipation from Abdullah’s parents, who prayed for their only child’s full recovery. Their prayers were answered, as the medical team successfully fitted the helmet, explaining that the reshaping process would take approximately six months.

Abdullah underwent regular medical check-ups throughout this period to track his development and ensure there were no unforeseen issues. The results continued to be positive with every examination and, six months later, the medical staff were able to announce his full recovery, allowing Abdullah the opportunity to enjoy the same happy childhood as his friends and peers, without limitations.

A New Beginning

The announcement of Abdullah’s full recovery was a moment of unbridled joy and relief for his parents and they expressed their profound gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital. The hospital was instrumental in their son’s recovery, being there at every step of his journey to recovery—from initial diagnosis and necessary medical imaging to fitting the helmet and providing six months of continuous medical follow-ups.

Today, Abdullah embarks on a new chapter of life, free from restrictions, with a future as bright as his parents had always dreamed.

When three-year-old Ferazia was diagnosed with leukaemia, the outlook was bleak. Her family, already haunted by losing a relative to the same disease, faced not only emotional devastation but also the crushing weight of unaffordable medical costs. That’s when Al Jalila Foundation stepped in, changing the course of this young life through its A’awen program.

A family’s worst fear realised

The first signs were deceptively simple – a persistent fever that wouldn’t break and blood test results that prompted concern. For Ferazia Farhan Latif’s parents, the diagnosis of leukaemia in their Indian-born toddler immediately triggered deep concern.

Having already lost a 23-year-old family member to the disease, they understood all too well the gravity of what lay ahead. Despite their fears, they summoned the courage to fight for their daughter’s future.

Overwhelmed by the prohibitive costs of cancer treatment, the family found themselves at a crossroads until they discovered Al Jalila Foundation. Their urgent plea for assistance received prompt attention, and soon Ferazia was receiving comprehensive care at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.

Every medical expense was covered through the foundation’s A’awen program, transforming despair into possibility.

Beyond charity: A vision for children’s health

“The Child Fund we launched in November 2023 represents our commitment to ensuring no child goes without essential healthcare due to financial constraints,” explains Haajar Al Ali, Director of Programmes at Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.

The foundation employs rigorous assessment protocols, evaluating both financial need and medical necessity when determining support. “Our approach is deliberately inclusive – helping families regardless of nationality or background, and completely transparent with our partners,” Al Ali says.

She adds: “Each success story like Ferazia’s fuels our purpose. When we witness a child who faced such adversity return to normal childhood activities, it validates everything we stand for. These moments of triumph remind our entire team at Al Jalila Children’s Special Hospital that what we do truly matters.”

The remarkable resilience of a child

Throughout her treatment journey, Ferazia displayed extraordinary spirit. Rather than being diminished by her illness, she approached hospital visits with enthusiasm, forming bonds with medical staff that transcended typical patient-provider relationships.

For her, these weren’t merely clinical appointments but opportunities to visit friends who happened to be doctors and nurses.

As treatment progressed, Ferazia’s recovery became evident not just in medical assessments but in her everyday life. Soon she was back to riding her scooter, playing with abandon and thriving academically – hallmarks of childhood that had temporarily been put on hold.

Today, her family are profoundly grateful to the team who cared for Ferazia, and also to the Al Jalila Foundation. Her father said: “From the moment Ferazia was admitted, we felt immense care and support. They gave us hope and comfort even before treatment began, dedicating themselves tirelessly to our daughter’s well-being. We extend our deepest thanks and appreciation to the entire team.”

Adam’s parents welcomed their firstborn into the world with immense joy, surrounded by flowers and smiles. It was a moment that had been a long time coming – the realisation of a dream after a pregnancy filled with careful planning and hopeful anticipation.

However, their happiness was short-lived. Doctors discovered Adam was suffering from severe heart and kidney complications that had gone undetected during pregnancy. The situation required urgent medical intervention – leaving his Syrian parents facing a daunting medical and financial challenge far beyond their means.

Amidst their distress, a close friend advised Adam’s father to seek help from Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Healthcare. Without hesitation, he approached the foundation, submitting an urgent request for his son’s treatment.

After a thorough review of Adam’s case, his application was accepted under Al Jalila Foundation’s Children’s Fund, which pledged to cover his medical expenses at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.
Thanks to an accurate diagnosis by the hospital’s medical team, Adam underwent a series of complex surgical interventions, including two heart catheterization procedures, three ureter dilation surgeries, a cochlear implant and additional surgeries to address complications in his ears, nose and abdomen.

Reflecting on this emotional journey, Adam’s father says: “It was not an easy road. We moved between countless medical tests and multiple surgeries, requiring us to be patient and hopeful. But with each step of progress, our optimism grew, and our belief in our son’s future became stronger.

“The medical team developed a comprehensive treatment plan using the latest technologies and advanced medical equipment. They also provided us with continuous emotional support, which played a crucial role in easing our stress and strengthening our morale throughout the journey.”

Now, after months of medical care and rehabilitation, Adam has made remarkable progress.

Speaking with immense gratitude, his father says: “Thanks to the cochlear implant, he can now hear clearly, and the heart catheterization has greatly improved his breathing and sleep patterns. Today, he smiles, laughs and plays just like any other child. This incredible medical achievement would not have been possible without the support of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.”

The Children’s Fundis dedicated to providing critical healthcare support for children, ensuring they receive the care they need throughout their medical journey. The fund empowers the community to contribute and foster a culture of giving, guaranteeing that every child has access to essential treatment.

This initiative is part of Al Jalila Foundation’s broader mission to support education, research and medical treatments, assisting over 8,600 patients annually, 30 percent of whom are children battling life-threatening illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic conditions.

Through its relentless efforts, the foundation remains committed to transforming lives and ensuring that every child gets the second chance they deserve.

Born with Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome (HRHS), a rare congenital heart condition affecting blood flow to the lungs, Abdulrahman began life with an extraordinary challenge.

His parents were unaware of his condition’s severity until his twentieth day of life, when his mother noticed his lips and nails turning blue with each breath – a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of an arduous medical journey.

Following initial examinations at Dubai Hospital – part of Dubai Healthcare – Abdulrahman, who was born in 2019 to a Pakistani family, was referred to Khalifa Hospital in Abu Dhabi.
There, before reaching three months of age, he underwent his first surgery, the initial step in a series of procedures designed to correct his blood flow and improve heart function.

The path was fraught with anxiety for his family. Each medical decision carried immense weight, yet they found solace in the expertise of specialists who provided the guidance needed to navigate these difficult choices.

After his first surgery, Abdulrahman continued with medical follow-ups at Dubai Hospital. It was then that his family discovered Al Jalila Children’s Hospital and the Aoun Treatment Support Programme – an initiative by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Healthcare.

This programme offers financial assistance to UAE-based patients struggling to afford life-saving treatments. Their initial meeting with the medical team heralded a turning point in Abdulrahman’s treatment journey, as preparations commenced for his Fontan procedure, the third and final stage of surgical intervention for his condition.

“The medical team at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital reassured us and put our minds at ease,” his father recalls.

“Even though we had already been through previous heart surgeries, the fear remained just as intense. I was hesitant about the second surgery, but the doctors explained how crucial it was for Abdulrahman’s health and future development. From that moment, we decided to proceed with complete trust in the medical team’s plan.

“Abdulrahman was always cheerful and had great confidence in his doctors. On the day of his surgery, he even joked with one of the doctors, saying he wanted to walk to the operating room instead of being taken on a stretcher. This small gesture reflected the sense of security and comfort that the medical staff had provided him.”

Following surgery, Abdulrahman required specialised care for three months. His post-operative regimen was precise, including a high-calorie milk diet to help restore his strength. Gradually, he began to recover and regain his vitality.

Today, Abdulrahman displays more energy than his three older siblings. He delights in riding his bicycle and playing without showing any signs of fatigue. He has developed into a confident, resilient child who never feels different from his peers.

After this challenging experience, Abdulrahman’s father offers advice to parents facing similar circumstances:

“Trust the doctors and the local hospitals. We are fortunate to have Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in Dubai, where a highly skilled medical team, using the latest technologies, is dedicated to caring for our children. Instead of travelling abroad, we now have access to world-class expertise and medical care right here in the UAE.”

Through its various programmes and community initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Healthcare, supports the treatment of over 8,600 patients annually, 30 percent of whom are children suffering from life-threatening diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic conditions.

This reflects the foundation’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives and making a tangible impact on those in need.

The Children’s Fund, one of the foundation’s key initiatives, plays a vital role in supporting medical treatments, research and education, further strengthening its legacy of charitable achievements.

Al Jalila Foundation believes investing in knowledge drives progress. With the generous support of the Meem Foundation,we aresponsoring ten outstanding Emirati students in their pursuit of advanced medical education.

The scholarship recipients are testament to our shared commitment to advancing our nation’s healthcare sector and fulfilling our shared vision of creating a lasting impact in the UAE. Through their studies at the Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Queen’s University Belfast, these students will gain global expertise to serve their communities in the UAE.Among these scholars is Meera Abdulrahman Mubarak Ali Alghafri, whose impressive GPA of 3.96 in her Periodontology MSc reflects both academic talent and dedication to enhancing patient care.

With the support of the Al Jalila Foundation and the Meem Foundation, Meera has gained essential skills and a compassionate approach to care. The reach of the scholarship program goes beyond individual success. By investing in these talented Emiratis, we are building a healthcare workforce ready to meet evolving needs and to deliver care that aligns with our shared vision of a healthier, more resilient community.

Scholarship recipient Meera Abdulrahman Mubarak Ali Alghafri received a special invitation to meet His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE.

Each graduating scholar strengthens our nation’s healthcare capacity and builds a legacy of compassionate care. By nurturing Emirati talent, we are focusing on empowering our future healthcare professionals to save lives and inspire hope in patients.

Thanks to the support of the Meem Foundation, the ten students are pursuing studies in Cardiovascular Nursing, Paediatric Nursing, Orthodontics, and Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.
By supporting students, we believe our vision of hope spreads further – touching more lives and strengthening our community.

We are deeply grateful to the Meem Foundation for making these dreams possible. Together, we are building a legacy of compassion, resilience and empowerment that will uplift our nation and transform countless lives for generations to come.

Imagine the burden of keeping a cancer diagnosis a secret, even from those closest to you. It’s a reality for many.

33-year-old Farzana Mohammed, born and raised in Dubai, kept her diagnosis closely guarded…until now.

A devoted wife and mother to a beautiful three-year-old daughter, Hind, Farzana is a home-maker and finds joy in nurturing her family and indulging in her passions – cooking, exploring new cultures, and photography.

After a nine-year struggle with infertility, the joy of motherhood took an unexpected turn when Farzana was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. This news came as a big shock and suddenly, the excitement of welcoming her daughter was overshadowed by fear and uncertainty. The treatments left her feeling weak and helpless, her once vibrant spirit dimmed by the harsh reality of her illness. “I could not recognise the reflection staring back at me in the mirror”.

Farzana felt lost, hopeless, and lonely. Facing her cancer battle alone  seemed insurmountable, until a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of a message on Facebook from a stranger, introducing Farzana to Majlis Al Amal. “That message changed everything!”  Stepping into the centre, Farzana found a supportive community of women who understood her struggles and she discovered strength to face each day with renewed courage.

Majlis Al Amal became more than a support system; it became Farzana’s lifeline, shaping her into a stronger person and giving her hope for the future. “Looking back, I wish I had found this caring community earlier. They are like family to me now”.

Farzana discovered the power of vulnerability and the importance of breaking her silence. No longer burdened by fear and secrecy, today, Farzana stands as a beacon of hope for others, advocating for early detection and emphasizing the invaluable support available to those in need.

“One of my biggest fears was being judged, pitied, or ostracized because of my cancer. This all changed after joining Majlis Al Amal. Now, I share my story as a cancer survivor with confidence, emphasizing that ‘early detection saves lives’. It’s essential to listen to our body’s signals, and to remember that there are amazing people and a community to lean on.”

Every day patients confront the taboo surrounding cancer. In the heart of this struggle lies Majlis Al Amal, a ‘safe space’, a beacon of hope and support. Here, our members find compassion, understanding and reassurance that they are not alone and that no ‘secret’ is too daunting to share.

Farzana discovered the courage to ‘speak her truth’ to help break taboos and create awareness about the realities of cancer.

Reflecting on her experience, Farzana realizes that “every story is unique but we are united by the shared experience of overcoming adversity”.

In 2021, only days after the sudden passing of her husband, Sarab suffered a severe vitreous haemorrhage leaving her in desperate need of urgent surgery to restore her eyesight. Originally from Syria, Sarab had built a life in the UAE with her late husband and their children. A devoted homemaker, she found joy in cooking and treasured moments with her son and daughter.

The loss of her eyesight led to depression and heartache. Unable to read the Quran, her spiritual solace, she yearned for a glimmer of hope. Her son, a steadfast pillar of support, shared, “It is heartbreaking to see my mother suffer so much.”

A crowdfunding campaign sparked an outpouring of compassion. Every donation, every act of kindness, was a thread weaving hope into Sarab’s darkness. Her son’s plea resonated with many, and the generosity of strangers paved way for her healing. Al Jalila Foundation long-term partner, Mahzooz, covered the remainder of the funds required for Sarab’s surgery.

Sarab’s journey through surgery and recovery is testament to the power of community. “After the surgery my mother’s eyesight improved significantly and her life has returned to normal. We are so grateful for this incredible life-transforming gift. It means the world to me to see my mother filled with joy and hope for the future.”

Sarab’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of compassion shines bright. With the community’s support, Sarab emerged from the depths of despair to once again enjoying the beauty of life.

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Darlington is a fighter, always has been. But when she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in April 2022, her life was turned upside down and she knew that she would need to dig deep to find the strength for the fight of her life.

Darlington was 43 years old and had lived a healthy life, so the news came as a complete shock. She was devastated. To add to her worries, her husband had lost his job and their insurance could not cover the medical costs. They were both unemployed and struggling to make ends meet, unable to afford the life-saving treatment Darlington needed to fight the disease.

Her future felt uncertain, but Darlington never lost hope. She held on to that hope like a “lifeline”, knowing that it would see her through the toughest times. Despite her emotional and financial struggles, Darlington remained fierce, courageous, and full of life. With the help of Al Jalila Foundation, and our A’awen Giving donor community, Darlington was able to undergo the much-needed cancer treatment. She remained hopeful, strong and determined throughout her journey.

One morning, after recovering from her last chemotherapy session, Darlington received a call from Majlis Al Amal to attend the first anniversary event which she says “made me come alive again”. At Majlis Al Amal, she found her “hope tribe”, a community of women who had all been touched by cancer and who she could lean on for support, words of encouragement and the “lifeline” she had so desperately hoped for. “I thought my life had come to an end until I met wonderful ladies with inspiring stories of courage and survival”.

The Majlis Al Amal community of cancer warriors became her extended family and gave her strength to keep fighting. Knowing that there were more women like her going through the same struggles gave her comfort and the emotional support when she needed it the most.

Darlington’s story is a testament to the power of community, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of hope. Her hope and determination, combined with the support of those around her, helped her overcome all the odds. Darlington is grateful of everyone who helped her on her road to recovery: “I cannot thank Al Jalila Foundation enough for coming to my rescue when I had breast cancer. I was so afraid because I couldn’t afford the treatment, but with the help of this incredible community, I received all the support I needed, and today I am doing much better and feel like myself again. Thank you for giving me hope and the best chance to fight this disease.”

“I am so grateful to everyone who supported me during my journey. My family, my friends, and the incredible community of Majlis Al Amal. You gave me the strength to keep fighting, and I could not have done it without you.”

Darlington loves music, movies, and dancing. She also enjoys cooking and experimenting with recipes from all over the world and perfecting her skills in the kitchen: “It brings me so much pleasure to share my creations with my family and friends.”

As she looks forward to the future, Darlington is excited about the possibilities that lay ahead. She dreams of hosting her own talk show one day – a platform where she can share her thoughts and ideas with the world and engage with others in meaningful conversations. We have no doubt that Darlington will fulfill her dream, and we cannot wait to be there to celebrate it with her.

Darlington’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.

Meet Kairo, a brave little fighter who, at just 7 weeks old, was diagnosed with ventricular septal defect, also known as a hole in the heart. His strong spirit never wavered, and he faced each day with a smile, despite his pain and suffering.

As Kairo grew older, his condition began to take a toll on his body. By the time he was 4 years old, he had very little energy and was unable to enjoy the activities that other children his age took for granted. His parents were heartbroken to see him struggling and longed to see him running and playing with his friends. Unfortunately, they did not have the sufficient funds, or insurance, for the life-saving treatment Kairo desperately needed.

Hope came in the form of Al Jalila Foundation and long-time partner Emirates NBD who rallied their network to raise funds for Kairo’s medical care. The operation was a success and Kairo’s life was transformed. His heart grew stronger and he was filled with energy and joy.

Over the school holidays, Kairo was finally able to travel to see his extended family, where he had such a wonderful time and was so full of energy that he could even outrun his cousins.

Kairo’s parents were overwhelmed with gratitude to everyone who helped make Kairo’s recovery possible. “It has now been three months since the operation and our precious boy is getting stronger every day. We cannot express our gratitude enough to everyone who stepped in to help us. In our darkest time we were given the greatest gift of all: the gift of having our child with us, healthy, happy and full of life.”