All posts by Jovita Francis Dsouza

Stories of Hope

When Hope Was Lost, Healing Found a Way

At only ten years old, young Rukaiya Bathusha Mohideen from India found herself on an unexpected medical journey. Once a lively child full of dreams of school and play, her family’s everyday life was suddenly disrupted by a health scare that raised countless questions about the future.

In October 2024, during a routine medical check-up, doctors discovered a complex brain cyst that required urgent neurosurgery. The news struck her parents, a mix of fear and fragile hope, with their thoughts consumed by the search for treatment that could save their daughter’s life.

At this critical moment, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health stepped in, enabling her admission to Dubai Health’s Al Jalila Children’s Hospital where a specialized pediatric neurosurgery team designed a meticulous treatment plan. With expert surgical intervention, the operation was successfully carried out, transforming a moment of fear into a beacon of hope.

Following the surgery, Rukaiya underwent a structured follow-up program, including regular check-ups and neurological assessments to ensure safe recovery. With each visit, her parents witnessed steady progress, her energy returning day by day, along with her eagerness to rejoin her class and friends. Throughout this journey, the family found compassion in the medical team, and in the donors, they saw the living embodiment of a culture of giving deeply rooted in our values.

Today, Rukaiya continues her steps towards healing with the bright smile of a child who triumphed over fear. With heartfelt gratitude, her mother shares: “This support gave our daughter a new life and hope for a brighter future. Your generosity will live forever in our hearts.”

Stories of Hope

Al Jalila Foundation Supports Leo’s Ongoing Journey Through Cancer Treatment

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.”

Press Release

Through Al Jalila Foundation’s ‘The Hope Fund’ Dubai Health Inaugurates Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital with Support from Mohamed Saleh Abdulla

Dubai Health has inaugurated the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. Established through Al Jalila Foundation’s The Hope Fund, the unit was developed with the generous support of Mr. Mohamed Saleh Abdulla, whose name is inscribed on the hospital’s Giving Wall.

The inauguration was attended by His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO Emeritus of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; Dr. Tarek Fathey, Chief Clinical Officer, and Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Women and Children’s Campus.

The Pediatric Cardiology service at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital performs around 200 pediatric cardiac surgeries annually, in addition to more than 300 cardiac catheterizations procedures, reinforcing Dubai Health’s ability to deliver comprehensive, specialized care for various cardiac conditions.

The new unit reflects Dubai Health’s “Children First” commitment by advancing pediatric cardiac care. Aligned with a patient- and family-centered model, the unit also enables parents to remain close to their children, with comfortable beds provided beside each patient bed and a dedicated family area offering a welcoming space for relatives.

Mr. Mohamed Saleh Abdulla said: “Supporting children’s health is an investment in the wellbeing of future generations. We are honored to contribute to this unit, as community partnerships play an important role in expanding specialized services and ensuring patients receive the care they need. We hope this initiative will support Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young patients and their families.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we continue to work closely with our partners to launch and implement programs and initiatives that make a meaningful difference.

These efforts contribute to supporting the healthcare ecosystem and expanding access to advanced care, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for our patients and the wider community.”

Delivering advanced, multidisciplinary care

Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi said: “The addition of the ten-bed Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit further strengthens the continuum of cardiac care available to children at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. By bringing together specialized expertise and advanced clinical capabilities, we are able to provide comprehensive care for children while supporting families throughout their journey.”

The Hope Fund

Launched by Al Jalila Foundation, The Hope Fund is a flagship initiative that supports the development of Dubai Health facilities and expands access to advanced services that meet the evolving needs of the community. Through the contributions of partners, the Fund enables sustainable impact that strengthens Dubai’s healthcare system and improves patient outcomes.

Press Release

Dubai Health announces 46% increase in kidney transplants in 2025

Dubai Health has announced a 46% increase in kidney transplant procedures in 2025, reflecting growing community awareness of organ donation. The procedures were carried out as part of The National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue ‘Hayat’.

The announcement coincides with World Kidney Day, observed annually on 12 March. According to the latest figures, Dubai Health physicians performed 73 successful kidney transplants in 2025, compared with 50 procedures in 2024.

Through its integrated academic health system, Dubai Health supports organ transplantation efforts in collaboration with several federal, local, and private entities, including the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Healthcare City Authority, Dubai Airports, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Customs, Dubai Police General Headquarters, Dubai Public Prosecution, Mediclinic City Hospital, as well as several private sector hospitals. This collaboration reflects a coordinated national effort to strengthen organ donation and transplantation programmes across the UAE.

Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children’s Campus, and Chair of the Dubai Health Organ Donation and Transplantation Committee, said: “The increase in kidney transplant procedures during 2025 reflects the UAE’s continued progress in driving awareness of organ donation, supported by the national efforts led by The National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue ‘Hayat’, and the effective collaboration among healthcare entities across the country.”

He added: “At Dubai Health, we operate through an integrated academic health system that brings together care, learning, discovery, and giving. This approach enables us to advance organ transplant programmes in line with the highest international medical standards, while also developing specialised medical professionals and strengthening coordination with healthcare entities and strategic partners to expand transplant services and improve patient access to essential treatments.”

Nujood AlKhloofi, Senior Director of the Organ Donation and Transplantation Program at Dubai Health, said: “The continued growth of Dubai’s kidney transplant programme reflects the success of national efforts to promote organ donation and transplantation in the UAE, helping save the lives of many patients and improving their quality of life.”

She added: “As part of Dubai Health’s commitment to supporting organ donation initiatives, qualified coordinators have been assigned to manage the donation process and ensure procedures are conducted efficiently. Their capabilities have also been strengthened through hands-on training programmes, in addition to participation in conferences and workshops.”

Supporting Patients
Maha Al Taher, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, explained that the work of transplant coordinators combines both clinical expertise and compassionate patient support. Coordinators stay with patients and their families throughout the treatment journey, manage medical records, and coordinate with medical teams. This ensures that required evaluations, tests, and appointments are completed seamlessly, enabling patients to be placed on transplant waiting lists in accordance with the highest standards of safety.

Dhai Abdulla Binjarn, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, said that the transplant coordinator’s role begins with identifying eligible cases and providing initial awareness and counselling to the patients and families. This is then followed by medical, social, and financial assessments, ensuring comprehensive support through every step of the journey.

Abdalazeez Alghraizat, Clinical Pediatric Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, emphasised that the coordinator plays a critical role in paediatric transplant care by closely monitoring children’s medical conditions, coordinating with the clinical teams, and supporting families.

Community Initiatives
Through its community initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, supports the kidney transplant programme by providing financial assistance to patients who cannot afford treatment. The Foundation launched the ‘Your Donation Saves Lives’ programme, which drives funding for transplants, alongside several care programmes.

Educational Programmes
The Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), the learning and discovery arm of Dubai Health, contributes to advancing organ transplantation through specialised education and training programmes that equip medical professionals with the relevant expertise. These include the Adult Nephrology Fellowship Program and a training programme on ‘Core Skills in Organ Donation’. The University is also conducting scientific studies and research to further advance best practices in organ transplantation.

Stories of Hope

Al Jalila Foundation Supports Life-Saving Kidney Transplant for UAE Resident

When Jumar Donayre Fabroa received the call that a kidney had become available, it was a moment he and his family had been hoping for after years of living with chronic kidney disease.
With support from Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, the 38-year-old resident from the Philippines was able to undergo a life-saving kidney transplant at Dubai Health’s Dubai Hospital through the Foundation’s A’awen program, which supports treatment for patients across the UAE.

A husband and father living in the UAE, Jumar was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2022. By 2025, the illness had reached stage five, requiring regular dialysis sessions that increasingly affected his health and daily life. Unable to secure support, Jumar turned to Dubai Health for help.

Maha Al Taher, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, recalled meeting Jumar and his wife. Their anxiety was evident, but so was their determination. During the meeting, Jumar spoke of his wish to receive a kidney transplant that would help him return to daily life. From there, Maha assisted him in applying for support through Al Jalila Foundation and coordinated the medical and administrative requirements. In time, the approval came through, bringing Jumar one step closer to his transplant.

“When I called him to tell him the news, there was a brief silence, as though he could not quite believe it,” she said. “Then I heard his wife crying with joy. It was a deeply moving moment, and I felt hope had returned to this family.”

Following the approval, Jumar began preparing for the transplant. The transplant coordination team closely followed his appointments, facilitated procedures, and provided emotional support at every stage.

Maha Al Taher highlighted that the role of transplant coordinators extends beyond procedures. It involves providing compassionate, patient-centered support across every stage of the journey, easing the emotional burden and strengthening patients’ confidence.

Reflecting on the moment, Jumar said: “It felt like being born again. They gave me and my family hope in life once more.”
Today, Jumar is recovering well and looking forward to returning to a more normal life with his family. He expressed deep gratitude to Al Jalila Foundation and everyone whose generosity gave him a new chance at life.

Read more in Press:
Gulf News

Press Release

Ahmed bin Saeed recognises donors supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s The Hope Fund projects

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, honoured partners and donors supporting The Hope Fund projects, an initiative by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. Held in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, the ceremony celebrated donors whose contributions enhanced medical treatment programmes and services at Dubai Hospital.

Contributions received under The Hope Fund have supported medical facility readiness and improved patient experiences while highlighting the UAE’s enduring humanitarian values and commitment to social responsibility.

Sustainable impact

Launched by Al Jalila Foundation, The Hope Fund is a flagship initiative that supports the development of Dubai Health facilities and expands access to advanced medical services aligned with community needs. Partner contributions have played a central role in delivering sustainable impact and reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to healthcare excellence.

The event was attended by His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of HH The Dubai Ruler’s Court and Chairman of DIB; Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation’s Board of Directors and Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors; His Excellency Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority; His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; alongside partners and donors whose names are inscribed on Dubai Hospital’s Giving Wall.

Strategic partnerships

His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani said that DIB’s support for the Heart Care Pavilion at Dubai Hospital, delivered through a strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, reflects the bank’s institutional commitment to social responsibility and long-term community value. Such partnerships provide an effective model for aligning national efforts and directing support towards priorities that strengthen specialised healthcare capacity while enhancing quality of life and community wellbeing. The Pavilion includes 29 rooms with a total capacity of 42 beds, providing integrated services in cardiology and cardiac surgery.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said that the development of new departments and wards at Dubai Hospital reflects the power of giving and its capacity to foster a culture of social responsibility within the community. She noted that partnerships with individuals and institutional donors remain a key driver in enabling the healthcare system to evolve in line with international best practices and future demand.

Shared purpose


Her Excellency Dr. Amina Al Rostamani, Board Member of the AW Rostamani Group and Member of Al Jalila Foundation’s Board of Directors, said: “We believe that uniting efforts  around a shared purpose can drive lasting impact in healthcare, reflecting Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to embed a spirit of giving that supports better health outcomes.”

Farid Al Mulla, CEO of Emirates Islamic, said: “We are proud of our role as a strategic partner in supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s humanitarian initiatives. Our contribution to the renovation of Dubai Hospital facilities reflects our commitment to corporate social responsibility and humanitarian values that define our community. We remain committed to supporting healthcare services, helping provide an advanced care environment.”

Emirates Islamic contributed to the development of two inpatient care wards at the hospital. The first includes 16 rooms offering a capacity of 18 beds, while the second includes 30 rooms with a total of 38 beds, expanding capacity and supporting the quality of patient care.

Khalaf Ahmed Al Habtoor, CEO of Al Habtoor Motors, said: “Our support for Al Jalila Foundation reflects our commitment to supporting the healthcare sector in the UAE and to elevating healthcare standards and serving patients in need. We are also proud that our contribution was made through the Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi Fund in honour of his legacy.”

The financial pledge included the renovation of the Kidney Care Pavilion, which features 15 single rooms and 13 shared rooms, with a total capacity of 41 beds, providing specialised services in nephrology and urology.

Dr. Omar Al Marzouqi, Executive Director of Dubai Hospital, stated that the support provided by partners and donors will directly contribute to advancing the hospital’s clinical care system by providing an integrated environment that supports patient safety and accelerates the treatment journey, improving health outcomes and elevating the patient experience across every stage of care.

Read more in Press:
Dubai Media Office
WAM

 

Stories of Hope

Al Jalila Foundation Supports Lily’s Journey to Becoming Cancer-Free

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has supported the treatment journey of young patient Lily Abdelghani, covering the full cost of her cancer care through A’awen, the Foundation’s program dedicated to supporting treatment for UAE-based patients.

At the age of three, Lily was diagnosed with a left renal tumor known as Wilms tumor. She underwent surgery to remove part of her left kidney and received chemotherapy as part of her treatment. Three months after completing therapy, close monitoring revealed that the disease had recurred in her lungs and abdomen. This required further intervention and an intensive treatment protocol under the supervision of a multidisciplinary medical team at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, where she received compassionate, comprehensive care.

Lily’s mother said: “At the beginning, we were living with constant worry and the financial burden of treatment costs. After applying for support from Al Jalila Foundation, Lily’s case was accepted, with the Foundation covering the full cost of care.”
She added: “The treatment journey was not easy, but the Foundation’s support gave us stability and allowed us to focus on standing by Lily through every stage of her recovery as a family.”
She continued: “The most emotional moment was when we were told her treatment was over and that she was cancer-free. It felt like life was beginning again. We are deeply grateful to Al Jalila Foundation, the medical team at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, and everyone who stood by us during Lily’s treatment. Today, our daughter has fully recovered and is back to living a normal, happy life.”

The multidisciplinary medical team at Al Jalila Children’s worked closely with Lily’s family throughout her journey. They provided clear guidance on the disease, explained the diagnosis, and involved the family in treatment decisions, helping them feel empowered and more in control of Lily’s care.

Read more in Press: Khaleej Times

Stories of Hope

Al Jalila Foundation Supports Manhal’s Cancer Treatment and Offers Renewed Hope

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, supported Manhal Al Sharif, 47, a Syrian national, through his treatment journey for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), one of the most common forms of skin cancer. Al Jalila Foundation covered the full cost of his care at Dubai Health Dubai Hospital, through its A’awen program, which provides vital support to UAE-based patients in need.

What started as a small growth near Manhal’s left eye slowly began to spread, leading him to seek answers from several hospitals. When doctors confirmed it was basal cell carcinoma, he was faced with a devastating possibility: losing his left eye. With the need for specialized care and the high cost of treatment, Manhal turned to Al Jalila Foundation following a friend’s recommendation.

Within days, his case was reviewed and approved, and his treatment pathway was arranged, ensuring timely access to the care he needed.
Manhal began treatment at Dubai Hospital in 2025, undergoing comprehensive assessments and multidisciplinary consultations to evaluate his condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan, including imaging and specialist evaluations.

He underwent a complex procedure, during which the medical team was able to successfully remove the affected tissue while preserving his sight, a moment of immense relief for him and his family. As part of his treatment plan, he also received radiotherapy.
Looking back, Manhal said the case evaluation and approval process by Al Jalila Foundation was completed smoothly within five days. The speed, he noted, helped contain the disease and protect his eye.

He remembers the most difficult moment when he was first told that removing his eye might be the only option. “It was a shock”, he said. “But once I was transferred to Dubai Hospital, the doctors reassured me they would do everything they could to save my eye. That reassurance meant everything to us, it brought hope back to my family.”

He added: “I advise anyone going through this experience not to let fear take over, and to face the illness with confidence and faith in recovery.” He continued: “I thank Al Jalila Foundation for covering the treatment costs, and I appreciate the medical team at Dubai Hospital for their exceptional care.”

During treatment, Manhal stepped away from work for approximately 15 months to focus on his health, supported throughout by his wife, son, and parents. According to his latest medical report, he has achieved approximately 98% improvement, with ongoing follow-up visits, including continued eye monitoring.

Read more in Press: Gulf News