Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has supported the treatment journey of six-year-old Lithuanian national, Leo Karkauskas, by covering the cost of his cancer care through A’awen, the Foundation’s program dedicated to supporting treatment for UAE-based patients, ensuring he received the urgent medical support he needed at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.
Leo’s story began in February 2025, when he started showing several concerning symptoms, including pale skin and swollen lymph nodes. His family sought medical attention, and blood test results revealed a sharp rise in his white blood cell count, raising strong suspicion of leukemia. Doctors emphasized that timely medical intervention would be critical to saving his life.
During this time, Leo’s family was facing significant financial and personal hardship. With their health insurance expired and their living circumstances becoming increasingly difficult, they began considering leaving the country in search of treatment elsewhere.
As Leo’s condition worsened, he was transferred to Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in a move that marked a turning point in his treatment journey. Further tests confirmed that he required immediate medical attention, and he was admitted without delay. Leo spent his first two weeks in the intensive care unit, where he received intensive treatment and a series of critical medical interventions under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team.
Throughout this critical period, Leo’s family turned to Al Jalila Foundation for support. Guided by its commitment to helping patients access essential treatment, the Foundation covered the cost of Leo’s care and provided psychosocial support to him and his family, enabling him to continue receiving specialized treatment, including his stay in intensive care.
Leo began treatment in March 2025, with a plan including chemotherapy, delivered under the care of a multidisciplinary team across hematology, oncology, and pediatrics. Across his journey, he has received comprehensive care that addresses both his medical and emotional needs, despite additional complications, including recurrent infections that affected his lungs.
Today, Leo is celebrating his recovery, while gradually regaining parts of his daily routine. He has returned to activities he loves, including swimming and playing the drums, surrounded by the continued support of his family.
Leo’s mother expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Al Jalila Foundation, noting that its support enabled her son to continue his treatment journey and receive the care he needed at the right time, relieving a significant burden on the family during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.
She said: “My message to families going through similar circumstances is to hold on to hope, remain patient, and keep trusting. Every stage brings you closer to healing. The road may seem long, but there is always a glimmer of hope at the end.”
