All posts by Jovita Francis Dsouza

Stories of Hope

Huda Karam’s journey through Al Jalila Foundation’s Ta’alouf to Special Olympics success

The Ta’alouf program, an educational program offered by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has played a pivotal role in the journey of Huda Karam, a young Emirati woman of determination. Through Ta’alouf, Huda gained the support and confidence to participate fully in her community, empowering her to become an athlete with Special Olympics UAE while pursuing a degree in Mass Communications.

Launched in 2013, the Ta’alouf program is part of Al Jalila Foundation’s enduring commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive community, equipping parents, teachers, and caregivers with the knowledge to understand children’s individual needs through a range of training sessions, specialized programs, events, and community initiatives delivered in English and Arabic.

For Huda’s mother, Reem Abdelkader, Ta’alouf became a turning point. As a mother of two daughters of determination, she sees her mission as championing their abilities and ensuring they receive the opportunities they deserve. With dedication and persistence, she has worked to integrate her daughters into social and educational environments, opening broader horizons for their future.

Reem explained that she and Huda joined the Ta’alouf program in 2019, an experience that profoundly enriched their life and social skills and empowered them to participate more actively in the community. She emphasized that integrating children of determination is essential to building a truly inclusive society, saying: “We should never hesitate or feel embarrassed to showcase their abilities. On the contrary, we must highlight their potential, which deserves every form of support, care, and development.”

Huda echoed her mother’s sentiments as she expressed her gratitude for the program. “Ta’alouf gave me a deeper understanding of what inclusion really means. It helped me build my skills, taught me strength and patience, and instilled in me the belief that I am an active member of society.” She added that people of determination possess unique talents that deserve recognition and nurturing as part of the community’s core values of solidarity and support.

Her journey as an athlete is one of the clearest reflections of her growth. Huda credits her sporting journey to her involvement with Special Olympics UAE, where she has demonstrated exceptional ability, earning medals in running and football.  Her accomplishments are a testament to her passion, ambition, and determination. Today, she serves as an Athlete Leader with Special Olympics UAE and sits on the Athlete Leadership Council at both regional and national levels. Alongside her athletic pursuits, she is completing her higher education in media, which she sees as a powerful platform to amplify the voices of people of determination, and raise awareness.

Huda emphasized that participating in programs and initiatives offered by government and private institutions is essential to fostering meaningful inclusion. Educational, sports, and cultural activities, she noted, play a crucial role in refining abilities, and nurturing talent.

Press Release

ENOC Group Donates AED 50 Million to Support the Construction of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital

ENOC Group, a leading integrated global energy player, has signed a donation agreement with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, to contribute AED 50 million toward the construction and development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai’s first fully integrated and comprehensive cancer care facility.

This contribution reiterates the Group’s commitment to supporting the communities it operates in to enhance social, health and economic development programmes in line with the UAE’s ‘Year of Community’, which encourages impactful contributions to society.

The agreement was signed by Hussain Sultan Lootah, Acting CEO of ENOC Group, and Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee.

The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Tarek Fathy, Chief Clinical Officer at Dubai Health; and Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children’s Campus, and Shamma Al Rafi, Director of Fundraising at Al Jalila Foundation along with senior executives from both entities.

Commenting on this contribution, Hussain Sultan Lootah, Acting CEO of ENOC Group, said: “At ENOC, we are deeply committed to forging long-standing partnerships that focus on achieving social, environmental and economic wellbeing that add value to the communities we operate in. Our timely investment, during the Year of Community, towards Dubai Health’s Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will contribute significantly to creating a healthy environment while reinforcing the power of collective giving to build a healthier, more compassionate society.”

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee, said: “We are grateful to ENOC for this generous contribution in supporting the construction of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. This partnership reflects the vital role national companies play in fostering a culture of social responsibility, and stands as a leading example of institutional collaboration that supports our vision to advance health for humanity.”

This initiative reaffirms ENOC’s leadership in corporate social responsibility and its dedication to creating lasting, sustainable impact. By supporting programmes that directly enhance community wellbeing, the Group continues to play a vital role in building a more inclusive and healthier future for all.

Press Release

Al Jalila Foundation and Landmark Group launch health and wellness initiative for blue-collar workers

In the lead-up to World Diabetes Day, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, in partnership with Landmark Group through its CSR flagship Beat Diabetes programme, and in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA), has launched a long-term, comprehensive health and wellness initiative dedicated to blue-collar workers, which kicked off its activities at a labour camp in Dubai’s Al Quoz area.

This groundbreaking initiative began with a two-day screening campaign in Al Quoz, held on November 4 and 5, 2025, aimed to raise awareness about diabetes, and provide free medical screening for over 200 workers, covering blood sugar, blood pressure, and BMI as part of a wider effort to promote early detection and preventive care within UAE’s labour communities.

The charitable community-driven mobile clinic, “Wellness on Wheels”, provided free on-site medical screening, preventive advice and consultations, while volunteers from Lions Clubs International – Middle East supported the initiative with on-ground logistics. Each participant also received a healthy snack box from VIVA, Landmark Group’s discount grocer, reinforcing messages around balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices on a budget.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe that access to healthcare is a fundamental right for everyone. Through initiatives like Wellness on Wheels, we are taking healthcare directly to those who need it most, providing them with knowledge, early diagnosis, and ongoing support. Our partnership with Landmark Group reflects the power of collective action in advancing health and wellbeing, and we are proud to extend compassionate care to diverse community groups.”

Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director – Landmark Group, said: “At Landmark, we’ve been deeply committed to community health through our Beat Diabetes initiative for over 15 years, reaching millions across the region. Through this partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, we are extending our reach to the workers who form the backbone of our nation’s progress extending to the long-term treatment for those identified as being diabetic.”

She added: “Early screening and education are critical to preventing, treating and managing diabetes, and this programme reflects our long-term commitment to fostering a healthier, more informed community to battle the prevalence of this disease.”

The programme’s on-site setup featured a waiting area with educational sessions on diabetes prevention, supported by awareness flyers and installations to ensure an engaging environment.

This partnership marks the launch of a long-term health & wellness outreach programme dedicated to blue collar workers. It reflects a shared vision to improve public health outcomes through preventive education, early detection, and accessible care.

Since its inception in 2009, Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes programme has empowered communities across the GCC and India through awareness campaigns, free health screenings, and treatment in partnerships with leading healthcare institutions. Each year, the programme reaffirms its commitment to the UAE’s National Diabetes and Wellbeing strategies, reaching new communities with compassion, care, and action.

Stories of Hope

Al Jalila Foundation Highlights Members’ Experiences from the ‘Revive & Thrive’ Returnship Program for Cancer Survivors

As part of its ongoing efforts to empower women recovering from cancer, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, continues to support their rehabilitation through the Revive & Thrive returnship program. The initiative aims to empower women to resume their professional careers after an interruption caused by their treatment journey.

The program offers structured support through three core pillars: training, mentorship, and six months paid returnships. This enables participants to gradually reintegrate into the job market, rebuild their self-confidence, and gain practical experience under the guidance of mentors from participating organizations. It also facilitates pathways toward long-term employment for those seeking to resume their careers. To date, the program has successfully placed nine women in roles across various sectors.

Several program participants shared how Revive & Thrive served as a transformative bridge, helping them regain confidence and purpose following recovery.

 

A Renewed Opportunity

Janet Njoroji, a Kenyan national who has lived in the UAE for 21 years, shared that being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma resulted in the loss of her job.
“Joining the Revive & Thrive program, after completing treatment with Majlis Al Amal in 2023, gave me a renewed opportunity for professional growth,” she said. “Returning to work as an IT coordinator restored my confidence and motivated me to keep progressing.”

 

Restoring Balance

Hanan Al Razem, a Jordanian mother of two, shared her experience with the program after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023.
She faced considerable challenges in regaining focus and resuming her professional career.
“The practical training I received through the Revive & Thrive program, not only rebuilt my sense of capability, but also opened the door for me to work as a personal assistant,” she said, noting that the guidance and support she received throughout the program were instrumental in preparing her to return to the job market with confidence.

Renewed Confidence

Lekha Jaisankar, from India and a resident of the UAE for more than four decades, expressed her appreciation for the support she received from Majlis Al Amal after being diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2022.
This support continued with the Revive & Thrive program, which offered her a valuable internship opportunity within an organization, enabling her to gain experience and sharpen her skills. She expressed her gratitude for the training, sharing how it played a pivotal role in strengthening her self-assurance and facilitating her reintegration into the workplace.

 

Supportive Environment

Maria Teresa, from the Philippines, who has lived in Dubai for 26 years, stated that the Revive & Thrive program helped her regain a sense of professional integration and connection to the workplace, especially after years of absence due to her cancer treatment in 2022. She explained that returning to work marked a turning point in her career, as it allowed her to regain her skills and truly feel engaged in a real work environment.

 

Professional Flexibility

Mandy Daswani, a 63-year-old from India, confirmed that joining the Revive & Thrive program after years of recovering from breast cancer provided her with a career opportunity that fit her lifestyle. “With the program’s support, I found a job within a supportive and understanding team that welcomed me with genuine warmth and appreciation,” she said, noting that this new role provided her with a balance in her work life, helping her maintain her energy and spend more time with her grandchildren.

 

A New Beginning

Manisha Singh, from India, shared that her diagnosis with a rare form of breast and lung cancer two years ago compelled her to leave her full-time job. She added that joining the Revive & Thrive program gave her a meaningful opportunity to rebuild her life and embark on a fresh start.

 

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The National

Stories of Hope

Dubai Health supports Abdulhadi’s treatment, rekindling his passion for sports through “Nabadat” campaign

Dubai Health has successfully treated a heart valve condition in 24-year-old Abdulhadi Ahmed, helping him regain his health and return to his sporting activities, as part of the “Nabadat” campaign.

Led by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, the “Nabadat” campaign was launched in 2012 to provide advanced, life-saving cardiac care, including complex surgeries and catheterization procedures, for patients with congenital and chronic heart conditions who cannot afford treatment.

What began as a routine visit to a hospital in Dubai for a minor health concern turned into a life-changing journey for Abdulhadi. Medical tests revealed a serious heart valve issue that required urgent surgical intervention to prevent further complications.

Speaking about his journey, Abdulhadi Ahmed said he has always enjoyed sports, particularly football, and was committed to regularly visiting the fitness club. These routines became a natural part of his daily life, but following his diagnosis, he was advised to temporarily step back from physical activity to avoid overexertion, and prevent complications. He acknowledged that while the adjustment was difficult, he faced it with strength and determination, drawing support from his family and friends, who stood by him every step of the way.

Driven by his determination to regain his health and return to normal life, Abdulhadi, accompanied by his parents, turned to Al Jalila Foundation for support. He applied for treatment through the “Nabadat” initiative, and his request was approved, marking the beginning of a new journey toward recovery at Dubai Hospital.

Dr. Obaid Mohammed Al Jassim, Consultant and Head of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Dubai Hospital and Medical Director of the ‘Nabadat’ initiative, said that the medical team successfully performed a pulmonary valve repair for the young patient, Abdulhadi Ahmed. He noted that the procedure was crucial in restoring normal heart function and preventing future complications that could have endangered the patient’s life without timely surgical intervention.

Recovery Journey
Speaking about the moments after his surgery, Abdulhadi said: “I woke up to the nurse gently waking me, and moments later, the doctor came in with the good news, the surgery was a success. No words can describe how I felt at that moment. I was filled with relief and sincerely moved by the care and support of my family and friends.”

He expressed his sincere gratitude to Al Jalila Foundation and Dubai Hospital team for their significant role in his recovery, adding that he intends to give back by volunteering in medical initiatives. Abdulhadi emphasized that his experience taught him that cooperation is the path to achieving social solidarity and strengthening the impact of giving, an approach deeply embraced by the UAE.

Press Release

Al Jalila Foundation adds names of 18 donors to sections and facilities at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital in recognition of their support

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced that the names of 18 donors will be added to 19 sections and facilities at the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, in recognition of their generous contributions to the construction of Dubai’s first fully integrated comprehensive cancer care facility.

The announcement was made during an honoring ceremony, which was organized recently by Al Jalila Foundation at the construction site of the hospital, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors.

The event was also attended by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee; Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

Donor Names
The list of donors whose names will be added to the hospital’s sections and facilities includes: Abdul Rahim Mohammed Belghozooz Al Zarooni, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai Chambers, AWQAF Dubai, Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, Al Ansari Exchange, Sharaf Group, Al Sayyah Group, AW Rostamani Group, Chalhoub Group, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, Abdulla Hassan Al Rostamani’s family, Abdulsalam Al Rafi’s family, Innovo, Mohammed Ibrahim Obaidullah, Seddiqi Holding, Dr. Wael Al Mahmeed, and Eissa Abdullah Abdullaziz Al Othman Endowment.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni expressed his sincere appreciation to all donors for their generous support of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital project, emphasizing that their contributions embody the highest values of giving and social responsibility and serve as a cornerstone in building an advanced healthcare system.

Dr. Al Zarooni noted that Al Jalila Foundation has designated 30 sections and facilities within the hospital to additionally carry the names of donors as a mark of recognition. Each donor’s name will be added to the section or facility they helped fund, acknowledging their strategic role in supporting this humanitarian project, which represents a landmark addition to Dubai’s healthcare infrastructure and lay the foundation for a better future in cancer care.

The donors expressed their pride in having their names associated with facilities and sections at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. They emphasized that giving is both a social responsibility and a noble humanitarian mission through which they aim to make a real difference in patients’ lives and help enhance Dubai’s healthcare system.

Abdul Rahim Belghozooz Al Zarooni said he was proud to contribute to the construction of Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. He shared that his contribution stems from his strong belief that philanthropy is a social responsibility. He added, “To every cancer patient, I want you to know you are not alone. This hospital was built with you in mind, to provide advanced care and renewed hope for recovery.”

His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), affirmed that the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum left a profound humanitarian legacy marked by generosity and support for the health sector. His patronage of medical research, health innovation, and charitable work continues to inspire. DEWA’s contribution to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital project reflects its commitment to preserving the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and aligns with its corporate social responsibility strategy. This initiative exemplifies the Authority’s national commitment to enhancing quality of life, upholding noble humanitarian values, supporting the healthcare sector, and fostering social solidarity, all in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals and the UAE’s leadership vision for a cohesive and healthy society.

His Excellency Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, noted that their support for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital project reflects their commitment to empowering the business community to actively advance vital sectors, particularly healthcare, and to strengthen Dubai’s competitiveness and leadership as a global medical and healthcare hub. The Chambers added that the initiative truly exemplifies the public-private partnership.

Mohammad Ali Al Ansari, Chairman of Al Ansari Exchange, emphasized that their contribution exemplifies their deep belief in the importance of community partnership in supporting purposeful initiatives. They noted that the project carries a message of hope for cancer patients and their families and embodies the values of human solidarity and social compassion.

Ibrahim Sharaf, Chairman of the Sharaf Group, and Sharafuddin Sharaf, Vice Chairman, affirmed that their involvement in this medical landmark demonstrates a firm belief that human health is the foundation of a more prosperous and stable future. The group added that the initiative represents constructive partnership between the public and private sectors, contributes to the development of advanced infrastructure that promotes medical research and innovation, and reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading global healthcare hub.

Located in Dubai Healthcare City Phase 2, the 59,000-square-meter Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will feature 53 clinics, 21 clinical research areas, 60 infusion rooms, 10 urgent care rooms, 5 radiotherapy rooms, and 116 inpatient beds.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the hospital will also include 19 tranquil gardens and serve as a comprehensive healthcare center providing diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.

Press Release

Ghani Souleymane Reaches Halfway Mark in Guinness World Record Attempt to Complete 100 Triathlon Challenge Supporting Al Jalila Foundation

Athlete Ghani Souleymane has reached the halfway mark of his Guinness World Record attempt, having completed over 50 triathlons in support of Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.

The challenge supports the efforts of Al Jalila Foundation’s sports philanthropy program, which is dedicated to transforming athletic achievement into meaningful humanitarian impact. To date, and with the support of community partners, the program has raised nearly AED 15 million through more than 450 events, with every donation going directly toward patient care.

The Dubai T100 Triathlon is one of the flagship events in the global T100 series, bringing together athletes and endurance enthusiasts of all ages. Souleymane’s “T100x100” challenge is an attempt to complete 100 triathlons in 100 consecutive days, with each day requiring a 2 km swim, 80 km cycle, and 18 km run.

The Child Fund
Proceeds from Souleymane’s challenge will go directly toward providing treatment for children with cancer through Al Jalila Foundation’s The Child Fund, offering hope to young patients and their families.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We believe that sport plays a vital role in strengthening the connection between health and community, and in inspiring individuals to become active partners in the journey of giving. Souleymane’s experience is a powerful example of how personal dedication can be directed to serve noble humanitarian causes, reinforcing the values of solidarity and compassion, and contributing to improving the quality of life for children while restoring hope to their families.”

He added: “We are confident in Souleymane’s ability to complete the challenge and reach a milestone worthy of recognition in the Guinness World Records. His achievement will serve as a powerful source of inspiration, reflecting Dubai Health’s mission to advance health for humanity.”

Highlighting the significance of the challenge, Sam Renouf, CEO of the Professional Triathletes Organisation, said: “Ghani’s T100 challenge captures the true spirit of our sport – using triathlon as a platform to inspire, unite communities and drive meaningful change. The T100 World Tour is built on stories like these, where professional racing and grassroots passion combine to leave a lasting impact well beyond the finish line. We are proud to see Dubai and the UAE leading the way with such an extraordinary effort.”

Sharing his motivation, Ghani Souleymane said: “I’m proud to support Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to use sport as a force for positive change, improving lives, promoting better health, and strengthening the values of compassion and solidarity that define the UAE community. Through this challenge, I carry a humanitarian message to stand with children battling cancer. With every step I take, I hope to turn effort into hope, and give those in need a real chance at life.”

Having reached the halfway point, Souleymane’s physical strength and determination have become a powerful source of inspiration and a wide-reaching community rallying call to support Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to fund cancer treatment for children. The challenge is set to conclude at the Dubai T100 Triathlon on November 16, 2025.

Press Release

Ahmed bin Saeed honours donors of Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, honoured the donors of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital in recognition of their generosity, which is driving the construction of Dubai’s first fully integrated comprehensive cancer care facility.

The ceremony, organised by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, took place at the construction site of the hospital in Dubai Healthcare City Phase 2. It was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee; Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

55 donors, representing individuals, charitable organisations and public and private entities were recognised at the ceremony.

Commitment to philanthropy
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum affirmed that giving is deeply rooted in the UAE’s longstanding humanitarian legacy and remains a driving force behind both development and charitable work.

He said: “Guided by the vision of our leadership, the UAE continues to uphold these core values. The establishment of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital reflects the principles laid down by our founding fathers, placing giving at the heart of our national responsibility.”

His Highness commended the donors’ contributions, highlighting their key role in supporting the development of this landmark facility. He emphasised the importance of sustaining this noble work, which embodies social responsibility and human solidarity, while strengthening community partnerships that advance healthcare and place people at the heart of its priorities.

Leadership perspectives
Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg highlighted the significance of the hospital, saying: “This hospital embodies the vision of our leadership, which recognises human health as the nation’s true wealth. By establishing a fully integrated facility, we provide hope to patients and their families and create an advanced centre for specialised cancer care.”

She added: “We are deeply grateful to all our partners and supporters, both individuals and institutions, for their invaluable contributions, trust in our mission, and belief in advancing human health and improving quality of life.”

Dr. Amer Sharif reaffirmed that the hospital is a significant addition to Dubai’s healthcare system, providing a model that integrates medical treatment with supportive care to deliver a holistic patient experience.

He said: “The hospital will serve as both a centre for treatment and a beacon of hope for patients, offering advanced medical capabilities that meet the highest international standards. It will also act as a learning and research hub, strengthening our healthcare system by contributing to the discovery of new treatments and the development of forward-thinking approaches that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.”

Strategic partnerships
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni highlighted that Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, is responsible for raising funds to support the construction and development of the hospital through strategic partnerships with donors.

He noted that these efforts reflect the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to philanthropy, humanitarian work, and the advancement of healthcare in the UAE.

Fully integrated hospital
Located in Dubai Healthcare City Phase 2, the 59,000-square-metre Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital pays tribute to the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his lifetime legacy of philanthropy. It will feature 53 clinics, 21 clinical research areas, 60 infusion rooms, 10 urgent care rooms, 5 radiotherapy rooms and 116 inpatient beds.

Designed with well-being in mind, the hospital will also include 19 tranquil gardens and will serve as a centre of excellence for cancer treatment and research in the region.