UAE Girls Shine on Global Stage, Winning Climate Challenge at COP29 with Innovative Solution
The Winning Solution
The team’s solution revolves around filtering sludge through a vortex and a zeolite media to remove ammonia and metals. It reduces CO2 emissions by adding potassium carbonate, which turns into potassium bicarbonate, creating a dual benefit for waste management and environmental health. “Presenting at COP29 is an incredible privilege, especially as an Indian, a Pakistani, and a Sri Lankan united by the UAE’s spirit of tolerance. Friends since grade six, we’ve always shared a passion for change. Representing the UAE as young women from diverse backgrounds embodies the nation’s values of unity and impact, especially during the Year of Sustainability,” the team said. Earlier this year, Team Plethora presented their ideas at ADIPEC, gaining invaluable insights from industry leaders. “Knowing that established professionals are willing to guide the youth has been empowering. It’s inspired us to dream bigger.” What began as a school project has evolved into the Plethora Foundation, a student-led organization focused on sustainability and well-being. Through social drives like turning donated clothes into tote bags, the foundation reimagines traditional volunteering with creativity and impact.
Other Winners
The competition also highlighted other outstanding contributions from around the globe. The second-place winners, Team BeCure, comprised of students Sangho, Sophia, Edward, Grace, and Aiden from the USA and South Korea. They have developed an innovative approach to saving pollinators to secure crop health. The third-place team, HydroCure Solutions, featuring Aiman, Angelina, Jia, İdil, and Cindy from the USA, China, and Turkey, created a groundbreaking biodegradable gel for agriculture. In the Teachers’ category, Naqeeb Mehdi, Head of Biology at Delhi Public School in Greater Noida, India, secured the top position for his wetlands and climate change curriculum, engaging students in experiential and data-driven learning. Michael Jones, a former Computer Sciences teacher in the United Kingdom, earned second place for his curriculum addressing ocean plastic pollution aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14, ‘Life Below Water.’ Mariya Shah, a teacher from Prerna Girls School in Lucknow, India, took third place for her lesson plan tackling the environmental impact of menstrual plastic waste.Championing Climate Action
“At Burjeel Holdings, sustainability is deeply embedded in our mission and values. We recognize that addressing climate change is vital to safeguarding the health of both our communities and the planet. This aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s vision for sustainability. As a leader in healthcare, we are proud to play an active role in this crucial effort,” said John Sunil, CEO, Burjeel Holdings. Selected from over 1,000 applications across 58 countries, the winners showcased the intersection of creativity, science, and actionable strategies in climate action. As they prepare for their summer at Oxford Saïd, Team Plethora remains determined to inspire more young people to take action. “This is about more than just winning a competition—it’s about building a future where sustainability and well-being go hand in hand. From the UAE to the world, we’re just getting started,” the team said.Overcoming Obstacles
Team Liquid Spark from Rashaya Public High School, Lebanon, demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination by participating in the competition despite challenging circumstances. The journey to the finals at COP29 was anything but easy for Ashraf, Andressa, Aya, and Rim, as they faced uncertainties due to travel issues and navigated obstacles en route to the airport caused by security concerns. Their teacher, Roudaina Kassam, also a finalist in the competition, stood steadfastly by their side, exemplifying resilience and commitment. Despite these hardships, the team remained focused on their mission to drive positive change in the world. Their innovative solution for tackling water pollution garnered widespread attention and recognition.
Liver from Kuwait Saves UAE Resident’s Life in a Super-Urgent Transplant at Burjeel Medical City
Abu Dhabi: In a remarkable display of medical excellence and regional cooperation, a 43-year-old UAE resident has been given a new lease on life following an urgent liver transplant. The patient, Nur, a previously healthy Indonesian expatriate who has lived in the country for the past 14 years, suddenly developed acute liver injury, which rapidly escalated to acute fulminant liver failure. With no local donors available, a GCC-wide alert was issued, and a compatible liver was identified in Kuwait. Within a critical 48-hour window, the coordinated efforts of Burjeel Medical City, National Center for Organ Donation and Transplant at the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), and other regional entities facilitated this life-saving procedure.
Sudden Onset of Acute Liver Failure
Dr. Rehan Saif, Director for Burjeel Abdominal Multi-Organ Transplant Program, explained the emergency nature of the case and Nur’s deteriorating condition after she was taken to the hospital. “She was brought in with acute liver injury due to seronegative hepatitis, which soon developed into acute fulminant liver failure. Managing such a condition is extremely challenging due to the rapid progression and severe complications without a transplant. The patient met the criteria for a super-urgent liver transplant requiring immediate intervention,” he said.
Immediate Action and Coordination
The hospital immediately sent an alert to the National Center for Organ Donation and Transplant for an urgent liver transplant. As no local donors were available, the center extended the search to the entire GCC region.
According to medical experts, patients with acute liver failure are at risk of severe jaundice, bleeding, encephalopathy (neurological impairment), infections and multi-organ failure.
“Jaundice had started in Nur. The acute liver failure had also started affecting her brain. This condition has a very high mortality risk exceeding 80% if a liver transplant is not performed within 48 hours once the criteria are met. So, it was crucial to find a compatible donor and perform the transplant as soon as possible,” said Dr. Saif.
Meticulous Planning and Execution
In the race against time, the turning point came when a donor liver from a brain-dead individual in Kuwait was identified and offered. Swift action was taken to facilitate the transplant. The National Center for Organ Donation and Transplant played a pivotal role by organizing a private charter aircraft to transport the liver from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi.
The complexity of the procedure required meticulous planning and coordination between multiple specialties. While Dr. Gourab Sen, Consultant General Surgery, HPB & Transplantation, traveled to Kuwait to retrieve the donor liver, Dr. Saif and Dr. Johns Shaji Mathew, Abdominal Transplant and HPB Surgeon, prepared the patient for the transplant at BMC. The liver was successfully transported from Kuwait to BMC, where the surgical team was ready to perform the life-saving procedure. Dr Ramamurthy Baskaran, Consultant Transplant Anesthesia, was also part of the medical team.
“We had to ensure that the timing was precise to minimize the ischemic time—the period the liver is out of the body. This was crucial for the success of the transplant,” said Dr. Johns.
The operation, including the retrieval and transplantation, took approximately 14 hours from start to finish.
“The main message is the crucial need for early identification of acute liver failure and timely referral to a transplant center,” emphasized Dr. Saif. “This can make the difference between life and death.”
On the Road to Recovery
Post-transplant, Nur has recovered well. She has been discharged and continues her follow-up consultations.
“She had a successful outcome and can look forward to leading a completely normal and healthy life, thanks to the graciousness of the donor’s family who donated the organ and saved her life in time. We also thank the MOHAP, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, National Center for Organ Donation and Transplant, Kuwait Embassy, and Abu Dhabi Airports and for their support,” added Dr. Saif.
The Emirati family the patient worked for played an important role in ensuring she received immediate medical attention and provided her support.
“She is like family to us, and we are grateful to Burjeel Medical City, medical professionals, and authorities involved in her care. The swift response and treatment she received were exceptional,” said Ms. Reem Hasan Albaloushi.
“What happened to her was a complete shock to us. However, the support and care she received from the collaborative efforts of the doctors and agencies have been incredible. She is a fighter, and we are happy to see her recovery,” said Laelatul Fitri, her sister, who flew into Abu Dhabi upon learning about her condition.
This successful transplant not only highlights BMC’s capabilities in all types of liver transplantation and its ability to handle critical medical interventions but also emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation in transplantation.
Al Wahda Sports Club Announces Renewal of Sponsorship Agreement with Burjeel Hospital
Abu Dhabi: Al Wahda Football Club has announced the renewal of its partnership agreement with Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi. This partnership continues to provide healthcare and specialized medical services to the club’s athletes.
Burjeel Hospital, the leading tertiary care hospital under Burjeel Holdings, is renowned for its top doctors and advanced equipment in sports medicine, ensuring high-quality medical care for the club’s members. This collaboration will enhance the athletes’ health and contribute to improving their athletic performance, aligning with the club’s strategy to provide a healthy and supportive environment for its players.
This step is a result of the strong relationship between the club and Burjeel and the mutual benefits achieved over the past years. The agreement stipulates that the hospital will offer comprehensive medical solutions and care for players, including medical evaluations before sports competitions, treatment and care for injuries, support for first responders at sports events, and medical care for players and sports team members at all facilities.
Abdullah Salem Al Junaibi, CEO of Al Wahda Club, expressed his satisfaction with renewing the medical sponsorship agreement with Burjeel Hospital, noting that this agreement enhances the club’s efforts to provide the best healthcare for its players. He emphasized that the partnership with Burjeel Hospital, known for its extensive experience and advanced sports medicine facilities, will significantly contribute to maintaining player safety and improving performance. He added that this step reflects the club’s commitment to providing a healthy and supportive environment for all its members.
John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holding, stated, “At Burjeel, we are committed to advancing the health and well-being of our community. Through our ongoing partnership with Al Wahda Sports and Cultural Club, we provide world-class healthcare services to both athletes and staff. Together, we are building a healthier, stronger community, ensuring that all club members receive the highest quality of care.”
Burjeel Holdings Launches First Dedicated Day Surgery Center in Al Dhafra
Al Dhafra, August 07, 2024: As part of its mission to provide the community with accessible, high-quality patient care and enhance holistic community wellness, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the first dedicated Day Surgery Center in the Al Dhafra region. The center in Madinat Zayed’s Al Dhafra Mall was inaugurated by His Excellency Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Undersecretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region.
The ceremony was also attended by Mohammad Ali Al-Mansouri, Director General, Al Dhafra Region Municipality; His Excellency Hamdan Saif al-Mansouri, Director of the Al-Dhafra Police Directorate; Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member of Burjeel Holdings; Dr. Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Senior Vice President, Group Medical and Wellbeing, ADNOC, and Non-Executive Director at Burjeel Holdings; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; and other officials.
“The launch of the Burjeel Day Surgery Center marks a significant step in advancing healthcare services in Al Dhafra, playing a vital role in serving the region’s residents. It aligns with the vision of our wise leadership to provide world-class healthcare and promote a healthier, more resilient society,” said H.E. Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri.
With a patient-centric approach and a wide array of specialties under one roof, Burjeel Day Surgery Center focuses on outpatient procedures that ensure quick recovery and minimal hospital stays. This center is the fourth day surgery center launched by Burjeel Holdings in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, designed to meet the area’s specific geographic needs and population characteristics.
The center’s opening aligns with Burjeel’s expansion plan in the region, supported by Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the Group’s flagship quaternary hospital. It will complement ADNOC’s Al Dhannah Hospital, operated by BMC, providing integrated care with seamless coordination. Patients can access a wide range of complex care services through the Burjeel Holdings network.
“The opening of the dedicated Day Surgery Center is part of our commitment to scaling up the healthcare infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi. Beyond enhancing healthcare services, the center will create numerous opportunities for the local community in medical, administrative, and support roles,” said Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings.
Led by board-certified doctors, Burjeel Day Surgery Center has state-of-the-art facilities to meet a wide range of medical needs. The center offers comprehensive services across 13 specialties: Cardiology, Pediatrics, General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Gastroenterology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dental, Dermatology, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Otolaryngology, Urology, and Pathology. With cutting-edge medical technologies for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, the center includes comprehensive radiology services such as CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasound and a robust physiotherapy and rehabilitation department.
Dr. Marwan Abdelatif Ali Ismail, Specialist in Family Medicine and Medical Director, said, “From minor surgeries to specialized treatments and preventive care, the Burjeel Day Surgery Center in Al Dhafra offers a comprehensive range of services. The center is staffed by a team of highly skilled healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care. Our experts stay updated on the latest medical advancements with continuous training and development, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.”
By establishing healthcare facilities tailored to community needs, the center enhances health literacy through targeted initiatives that educate and empower the population, fostering a more informed and healthier community. It also aims to improve patient experience and well-being through community-led healthcare initiatives. The center features a robust screening program offering pediatric vaccinations to safeguard children’s health and provides chronic disease management in specialized areas such as cardiology, family medicine, and diabetic endocrinology.
Burjeel Holdings Launches 24/7 Airport Clinic to Serve Zayed International Airport
Abu Dhabi, UAE : Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the 24/7 Burjeel Airport Clinic at Zayed International Airport. This state-of-the-art clinic is set to enhance and streamline healthcare services for airport staff and passengers, ensuring their health and safety around the clock.
Burjeel Airport Clinic was inaugurated in the presence of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; and Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings.
The Burjeel Airport Clinic is staffed with highly qualified doctors and allied medical professionals ready to address a wide range of health concerns. The clinic is equipped to address acute conditions that may arise during travel, with more complex cases to be referred to the world-class facilities that are part of Burjeel’s expansive network. The clinic also offers occupational and preventive care, and health screenings. It is equipped to perform ECG services, infusions, injections, and consultations for women. For patients requiring extended monitoring, a patient observation room is available.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports commented: “The health and well-being of both our staff and passengers remains our top priority. We are proud to partner with Burjeel Holdings to open this cutting-edge clinic, ensuring that everyone has access to expert medical care whenever they need it, while further enhancing our offerings and strengthening our commitment to a safe and secure environment for everyone at Zayed International Airport.”
“Our goal is to provide top-notch medical services to everyone at the airport, ensuring that both travelers and staff have access to high-quality healthcare whenever they need it. By serving passengers from across the globe, we highlight the world-class treatment options that the UAE offers and support Abu Dhabi’s medical tourism ambitions,” said Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings.
In addition to general medical services, the clinic offers vaccination assistance, helping travelers and airport personnel stay protected against various illnesses. The Burjeel Airport Clinic will also ensure guests have immediate access to healthcare without needing to leave the airport, maximizing safety and minimizing the potential travel disruptions for those seeking treatment. The clinic will also serve layover passengers traveling through the airport, ensuring their healthcare needs are met during their stopover.
Zayed International Airport is a world-class transportation hub with the capacity to welcome up to 45 million passengers per year. It integrates the latest biometric and screening technology to create a seamless passenger experience from door to destination.
Burjeel Holdings Receives Institutional Accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties
Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Holdings has achieved a significant milestone by receiving institutional accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS), a prestigious accreditation program in the UAE. Burjeel Holdings is the first private entity in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to obtain this accreditation as a group.
The accreditation was officially conferred by Dr. Mohammed Al-Houqani, Secretary General of NIHS, during a ceremony attended by Dr. Rashed Obaid Alsuwaidi, Executive Director of Healthcare Workforce Planning Sector, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and senior officials from the Group.
Dr. Mohammed Al-Houqani emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “The institutional accreditation for Burjeel Holdings represents a major accomplishment aligned with the UAE’s vision to enhance the quality of medical education, training, and the qualification of healthcare workers according to the highest evaluation standards.”
Six institutions under the Group’s umbrella have been accredited as teaching hospitals, including Burjeel Medical City, Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, Al Dhannah Hospital, Medeor Hospital, Burjeel Royal Hospital, Al Ain, and Burjeel Royal Hospital, Asharej.
Expressing pride in this remarkable achievement, Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, said, “We are honored to receive this prestigious accreditation, which will pave the way for us to deliver specialized medical education programs of the highest quality. This achievement aligns with our vision and goals of enriching the healthcare sector in the UAE by cultivating a highly skilled healthcare workforce trained locally.”
The Group plans to introduce a range of residency and fellowship programs in medical specialties, along with specialized nursing programs, in collaboration with regulatory authorities in the Emirate.
This accreditation has been granted after Burjeel Holdings fulfilled the instructional standards set by NIHS, including completing accreditation application requirements, meeting evaluative field visit criteria, and providing necessary information and data for training programs.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Inaugurates Burjeel Cancer Institute, Affirms the UAE’s Commitment to Healthcare
Under the leadership of His Highness the President, the UAE is committed to providing the best healthcare to all’: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak. The institute will offer world-class services to enhance cancer care in the country
Abu Dhabi, UAE – July 05, 2024: His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, has inaugurated the Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) in Mohammed bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi. Launched by Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, BCI consolidates one of the largest cancer care networks in the UAE. Located within Burjeel Medical City, the institute aims to offer advanced cancer treatments for patients in the UAE and beyond.
Following the opening of the institute, H.E. Sheikh Nahyan said, “The UAE, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President (may God protect him), is committed to providing the best healthcare and medical services to all. Caring for cancer patients in the UAE is a top priority. We understand that the foundation of a prosperous society lies in the health and well-being of its people. We are committed to advancing medical knowledge and ensuring the highest standards of healthcare. Cancer care is one of the areas where we focus on early diagnosis and implementing the most effective treatments.”
H.E. Sheikh Nahyan stressed the importance of sustaining the fight against cancer by addressing any delays in translating clinical discoveries and innovations into available treatments. According to him, medical access to these technologies and practices will increase public confidence in obtaining advanced diagnostic and treatment services.
H.E. Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the need for cooperation between multiple stakeholders in confronting a global challenge such as cancer. He added, “The facilities hosted by the UAE, such as the BCI, reflect our dedication to providing comprehensive and innovative care for cancer patients. Their unique vision includes not only treatment but also prevention, early detection, and patient education.”
The launch ceremony was attended by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings; Ms. Aysha Al Mahri, Deputy CEO of Burjeel Medical City; a delegation from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH); medical staff; cancer survivors; and their families. The institute is headed by accomplished Emirati oncologist Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi.
A Leader in Cancer Care
BCI is the center of Burjeel’s cancer care network, which comprises facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Sharjah, and Dubai. Annually, the network caters to over 5,000 oncology patients, performs more than 10,000 screenings, and conducts 10,000+ radiotherapy sessions with the expertise of over 50 specialists.
BCI’s dedicated tower offers state-of-the-art facilities across four floors, featuring private chemotherapy suites, specialty clinics, a dedicated breast cancer unit, and patient-centric facilities. It integrates chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgical oncology, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) to offer a seamless experience for patients. The institute offers cutting-edge treatments such as targeted therapy, precision medicine, advanced surgical techniques, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy as well as AI-driven cancer diagnosis and management.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, said, “The launch of BCI marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide world-class cancer care within the UAE. We are committed to ensuring that patients receive the best possible care, supported by advanced technology and research. We believe that BCI will transform cancer treatment and significantly improve patient outcomes.”
Integrating Diagnostics and Research
BCI incorporates advanced diagnostic capabilities through OncoHelix-CoLab to perform specialized tests locally and utilize technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Droplet Digital PCR, and Multi-color Flow Cytometry. This integration is expected to enhance diagnostic precision and efficiency, leading to improved patient outcomes.
BCI is also equipped to conduct high-quality clinical trials and translational research, fostering advancements in cancer understanding and treatment. Collaborations with international cancer research institutions and pharmaceutical companies are expected to pave the way for patients to access the latest innovations in cancer care.
Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO, Burjeel Cancer Institute, said, “BCI is a hub of hope, capable of offering comprehensive and holistic cancer care. By integrating advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments under one roof, we aim to provide a seamless and patient-centric experience. Our focus is on enhancing the quality of life for our patients and their families.”
BCI will set up a medical education program to enhance oncology education, support research, and develop residency and fellowship programs in collaboration with local and global institutions. The institute will also focus on community engagement through awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and cancer screening programs.
BCI is poised to transform cancer care in the UAE and the region, offering world-class treatment options that will attract international patients seeking advanced and comprehensive care.
Burjeel Holdings Wins Gold at Employee Happiness Awards for Diversity & Inclusion
Recognition highlights the success of comprehensive diversity, equity and inclusion strategies aligned with sustainable ESG integration
Abu Dhabi, 10 June 2024: In recognition of advancing workplace inclusivity, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has emerged as the gold winner in the Diversity & Inclusion Initiative category at the Employee Happiness Awards, the premier HR recognition in the UAE. The Group was also a finalist in the Best Wellness Initiative category for its Burjeel Games and Wellness Program. The accolades reflect the healthcare provider’s commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace environment.
“Burjeel Holdings prioritizes an open and inclusive working environment, ensuring equal treatment regardless of ethnicity, religion, age, disability, or gender. With a focus on building a disability-inclusive company, they have enhanced physical accessibility in their premises and implemented a flexible working model to support individuals with disabilities,” highlighted the citation while revealing the winner at the ceremony held in Dubai.
Burjeel Holdings’ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative is distinguished by its comprehensive approach, encompassing gender equality, cultural and multigenerational diversity, and support for people of determination. The organization proudly employs individuals from diverse nationalities and has implemented a robust talent acquisition strategy to ensure fairness and equity.
“Our success in winning this accolade is attributed to the efforts put forth in our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative,” said Madhuri Aswal, Group Director, Human Resources, Burjeel Holdings. “This achievement is underscored by our remarkable progress in gender equality, with over 750 women leaders and a 54% representation of women in our workforce.”
The commitment to inclusivity is also deeply ingrained in Burjeel Holdings’ ESG strategy, enriching the organizational culture and driving sustainable growth.
“We are delighted by this recognition, which affirms our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates the unique contributions of all. Our initiatives empower talents, ensuring everyone is supported to thrive,” said Tahani Alqadiri, Director – Emiratization and Academics, Burjeel Holdings.
The Employee Happiness Award shines a spotlight on ongoing transformations across the UAE’s HR landscape. Renowned for its transparency and merit-based selection process, it has earned the Awards Trust Mark by the Independent Awards Standard Council. Winners are determined by a jury of top HR and employee happiness experts through a rigorous review process.
ZHO, Burjeel Holdings Sign MoU to Provide Healthcare Services to People of Determination
The cooperation also aims to empower and integrate people of determination into the job market.
Abu Dhabi, 29 May, 2024: Zayed Higher Organization (ZHO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Burjeel Holdings aimed at strategic cooperation to achieve their common goals in supporting the employment of people of determination by providing job opportunities, training and special discounts for these groups in line with Burjeel Holdings’ policies. This future cooperation aims to empower and integrate people of determination into the job market.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on behalf of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination by His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of the organization, and John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings. The signing ceremony took place at the organization’s headquarters in the presence of several leaders from both sides.
His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, welcomed signing the Memorandum of Understanding with Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA. This comes as part of the organization’s diverse care and rehabilitation services for its members, reflecting their strategic goals and shared vision regarding social responsibility in achieving sustainable social development and building a healthy, sustainable community amid efforts in healthcare coverage and humanitarian care for the organization’s members from the people of determination.
The partnership between the Zayed Higher Organization and Burjeel Holdings has already yielded numerous benefits for the people of determination. Successful initiatives and projects include early disability detection services, rehabilitation treatment services, and access to medical services for treatment and prevention. The partnership has also facilitated the exchange of technical expertise and training courses, enhancing the skills of the organization’s technical staff. The broader community has also reaped the benefits, with community services benefiting people of determination in the emirate. These initiatives, in collaboration with Burjeel Medical City (BMC), have significantly improved the quality of life for the people of determination.
This includes the 3D printing project for orthopedic support by having BMC purchase some of the organization’s products from the outputs of the first specialized workshop of its kind globally in developing 3D printed products by the efforts of people of determination using the HP Jet Fusion 4200 series printer to produce medical supports for limbs via 3D printing.
For his part, John Sunil said, “We are proud of our partnership with Zayed Higher Organization, which represents an important step forward in our commitment to diversity and inclusion. At Burjeel Holdings, we believe in the power of every individual, and through this partnership, we are honored to support ZHO’s mission to empower people of determination by providing meaningful job opportunities. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique talents.”
Defying Blood Group Compatibility Challenge: Abu Dhabi Doctors Enable Husband to Donate Kidney to Wife in Rare Transplant
Abu Dhabi: In a groundbreaking achievement, a team of transplant nephrologists at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi has successfully completed a complex ABO incompatible kidney transplant. This procedure, wherein the blood types of the donor and recipient do not align, challenges conventional norms in organ transplantation, where compatibility is typically a prerequisite to prevent rejection.
When 32-year-old Revathi Karthikeyan learned that she had to undergo a kidney transplant to save her life, she didn’t imagine that the journey to find a donor would be a complicated one. Revathi and her husband Karthikeyan Cherandiyan’s journey serves as a reminder that love, when tested by life’s most formidable challenges, can emerge as the true healer. Karthikeyan played a crucial role in his wife’s journey to healing by donating his kidney to save her life.
Unexpected Diagnosis
Revathi has been dealing with IGA nephropathy renal disease since 2018, which eventually advanced to end-stage renal disease in 2023. Faced with a critical juncture that necessitated a kidney transplant, she encountered an additional challenge when she experienced a cardiac arrest. Fortunately, she was promptly revived, and hemodialysis was initiated in 2022.
The couple explored the option of a deceased donor transplant. Hope dimmed when no suitable donor was found. “Unfortunately, no suitable donor was found in our native place. Following a family discussion, my father volunteered for kidney donation. The transplant center initiated the pre-transplant workup. Regrettably, my father was disqualified due to minor cardiac issues and a high level of HbA1c,” said Revathi.
Undeterred, Revathi’s husband stepped forward for donation. However, preliminary tests revealed a difference in blood group between Karthikeyan and Revathi.
The Turning Point
The turning point came when the family’s nephrologist approached Dr. Ishthiaque Ahamed, Specialist Nephrologist & Transplant Physician at Burjeel Medical City. Karthikeyan was identified as a cross blood group donor. He successfully passed all blood tests, imaging, and multidisciplinary fitness assessments and cross-match evaluations confirmed that he was a suitable match for his wife.
“I was very happy when we came to know that I was able to donate the kidney. Despite approaching various transplant centers for an across-blood-group kidney transplant, we were unable to find a suitable match,” said Karthikeyan.
The decision to proceed with the pre-transplant workup at Burjeel Medical City was made after extensive discussions with Dr. Ishthiaque. The doctor emphasized the complexity of the case, highlighting the evolution of strategies over the past 25 years that have made ABO incompatible transplants safe, with graft survival rates comparable to compatible transplants.
“When I learned about the possibility of a kidney transplant, I was both anxious and hopeful. It was a rollercoaster of emotions,” said Revathi.
In an ABO incompatible kidney transplant, the patient undergoes medical treatment before and after the kidney transplant to decrease antibody levels in the blood, thereby mitigating the risk of antibodies rejecting the donor kidney.
“In Revathi’s case, the titers are on the lower side, favoring a positive outcome. Additionally, plasmapheresis was performed to eliminate pre-existing antibodies, and the formation of new antibodies was suppressed through special injections before the transplant. Given the urgency, we decided to go ahead with the incompatible kidney transplant after explaining the pros and cons to the family. Since the patient was also very keen to go ahead with the transplant, we went ahead,” Dr Ishthiaque said.
Robotic Surgery
Dr. Rehan Saif, Director Transplant Surgery for Burjeel Abdominal Multi-Organ Transplant Program, Clinical Lead HPB Surgery, Consultant General Surgery, explained that in the context of ABO incompatible transplants, assessing antibody titers is crucial. “Higher antibody titers pose an increased risk of rejection. The live donor nephrectomy was performed using a fully robotic procedure, offering substantial advantages over both the traditional open and laparoscopic methods. This approach ensures a faster operation, minimal blood loss, and a quicker recovery period. Both the donor surgery and recipient surgery went on for four hours.”
Along with Dr. Ishthiaque and Dr. Rehan, the multidisciplinary team included Dr. Venkat Sainaresh Vellanki, Director – Transplant Nephrologist, Dr. Ramamurthy Ganesan Baskaran, Consultant Anesthesiology & Transplant Anesthesia, and the ICU team lead by Dr. Nicholas Wyon, Consultant Anesthesia / Critical Care Medicine, with the support of the nursing team, OT team, transplant manager, and transplant coordinator.
“In an ABO incompatible renal transplant, immunosuppression during the intraoperative period was meticulously tailored to address the specific circumstances. Complicating matters, Revathi faced challenges related to difficult central venous access, posing a considerable challenge during the surgery. Efforts were made to optimize her blood pressure to ensure the transplanted kidney began functioning effectively before she exited the operating room,” said Dr. Ramamurthy.
Both Revathi and Karthikeyan have undergone post-surgery rehabilitation and were under close monitoring by the dedicated medical team at Burjeel Medical City.
“This groundbreaking procedure not only signifies a remarkable achievement in the realm of medicine but also brings renewed hope to a family navigating the challenges of chronic kidney disease,” said Dr. Ishthiaque.
The delighted family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team at Burjeel Medical City for their exceptional care. “I have navigated through one of the most challenging periods of our lives. I cannot thank my husband enough for his relentless support and love. I am also deeply grateful to my children and family for providing me with courage and standing firmly by my side,” said Revathi.
According to the doctors, the patient will undergo regular follow-ups, initially scheduled twice a week, and this frequency will be adjusted to monthly visits after six months. Ongoing monitoring includes dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and routine lab tests.