Zulaykha Rasool and Mohammed Hashir receive their gifts during the ceremony in Abu Dhabi. WAM

The children, 7-year-old Zulaykha Rasool, who suffered from thalassemia, and 7-year-old Mohammed Hashir, who suffered from iron deficiency anaemia, were gifted an iPhone 14 and a two-seater electric car, respectively.

The announcement came at an event organised by Burjeel Medical City at its headquarters in Mohamed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, where gifts were distributed, cakes were handed out, and commemorative photos were taken in the presence of the children's families and the hospital's medical and administrative staff.

The initiative underscores the foundation’s commitment to bringing joy to the children by fulfilling their aspirations of owning a smartphone and an electric car, as well as igniting a spark of hope in their hearts after enduring battles with illness.

Hani Alzubaidi, CEO of the Foundation, said, “We are pleased to intensify our efforts to fulfil the dreams of these children, who have completed their treatments after their semi-permanent stays for blood transfusions, so we were keen to create a special celebration that will provide them and their families with unforgettable moments.”

Al Alzubaidi expressed his gratitude to the management of Burjeel Medical City for their exceptional care for patients, stressing that the acts of kindness continues to inspire the community with love, setting a commendable example of selflessness and generosity.

Naser Al Riyami, Chief Operations Officer at Burjeel Medical City, said, “We are always pleased to collaborate with the Make a Wish Foundation to make our young patients' wishes come true. These humane gestures have a profound impact on the children, instilling hope and joy in their lives while also providing moral support throughout their healing journey.”

Dr Zainul Aabideen, Head of the Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation at Burjeel Medical City, said, “At Burjeel Medical City, we take pride in offering rare treatments to children with blood disorders and cancers. We are the sole providers of paediatric bone marrow transplants in the country. This stems from our belief in supporting challenging cases where a bone marrow transplant is the sole treatment option, as is the case with thalassemia and blood cancers in children.”

“This treatment ensures their recovery and ends their arduous suffering and the suffering of their families. Currently, we have successfully performed bone marrow transplants for 30 children, and our efforts continue to save more young lives, and we play a crucial role in raising awareness in the community about early diagnosis and recognising disease symptoms,” he added.

The families of the two children expressed their gratitude to the foundation and everyone involved in bringing happiness to their lives and granting them unforgettable memories.

WAM