• Nobel Laureate Prof. James Allison, whose work has revolutionized cancer immunotherapy, delivered the keynote lecture
• The global congress of the WIN Consortium brings together top physicians, researchers and scientists in precision oncology from across the world
• Held in partnership with Burjeel Holdings, the congress is being conducted outside Europe for the first time

ABU DHABI: The WIN Symposium 2024, a landmark event in precision oncology, has officially commenced in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant collaboration between the Worldwide Innovative Network (WIN) Consortium and Burjeel Holdings. This two-day annual global congress of the WIN Consortium brings together over 500 physicians, researchers, and scientists in the field from 30 countries to explore the latest advancements in precision oncology, with the ultimate goal of improving cancer patient care and outcomes worldwide.

Nobel Laureate Presents Latest Research on Immunotherapy

Under the theme ‘Precision and Molecular Oncology: Caring for Patients and Future Generations,’ the congress kicked off with a grand opening featuring 2018 Nobel Laureate, Prof. James Allison, Regental Professor and Chair of the Department of Immunology at the MD Anderson Cancer Center (USA), whose groundbreaking work has revolutionized cancer immunotherapy. In his keynote lecture, Prof. Allison, presented the latest research on how immunotherapy works and the way in which treatments can be improved, tailored and combined so that they are more effective and safe to give to patients with various types of cancer.

On the sidelines of the event, Prof. Allison, said, “We are excited to be here and hear about what is happening in the UAE. We are impressed by the infrastructure being built for the development of patient care and cancer treatment, particularly in precision oncology, genomic medicine, and immunotherapy. The future is already here in terms of collaboration with various groups, including those planning infrastructure and building medical systems in Abu Dhabi, especially in clinical trials and the testing of new drugs.”

The WIN Consortium, a non-profit association headquartered in France, unites 31 world-class academic medical centers, healthcare industries, research organizations, and patient advocacy groups from 18 countries, aligned to launch cancer trials using omic platforms to bolster precision oncology across the world. BMC — Burjeel Medical City, the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings, is the first and only member from the UAE and GCC. Abu Dhabi was selected as the city to host this year’s congress, marking its inaugural occurrence outside of its traditional European venue.

This decision reflects the international scientific community’s trust in the UAE’s vision and capabilities in advancing precision oncology.

During the opening ceremony, Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director, Research and Innovation Center at Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, outlined the DoH’s plans for precision medicine. “The Department of Health is at the forefront of integrating advanced tools and strategies at both clinical and genomic data levels. Our goal is to not just promote precision research and care but to revolutionize it, ensuring that personalized healthcare is not a luxury, but a standard,” said Dr. Asma.

Transforming Cancer Care

Emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in transforming cancer care, Prof. Wafik El-Deiry, Chair, WIN Consortium, Director, Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University (USA) said, “Treating patients with cancer without fully understanding established and emerging molecular biomarkers for cancer outcomes can severely limit many aspects of patient care. The global WIN Consortium in cancer personalized medicine is pleased to collaborate with a strong scientific partner such as Burjeel Holdings to bring the premiere annual precision oncology WIN Symposium to Abu Dhabi. The world-class clinical and research faculty including Nobel Laureate James Alison are discussing how biomarkers, technologies and intelligent algorithms are helping patients with advanced cancer access the best life-prolonging treatment combinations and approaches that are transforming cancer care in the field of precision oncology.”

The congress features a meticulously curated program, featuring interactive elements that illustrate the principles and best practices of precision cancer treatment. Key opinion leaders and innovators from prestigious institutions worldwide and major precision diagnostic companies are participating, fostering discussions on the latest advancements in precision medicine.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman, Burjeel Holdings, highlighted the Group’s commitment to cancer care, stating, “We are committed to advancing our understanding of cancer and work towards improving patient care, not only for the current but also for future generations in the UAE and region. The only way for us to do this is through fostering an engaging dialogue between international scholars and innovators and local experts to bridge theory and real-world practice and forge lasting partnerships.”

Comprehensive Sessions

Emphasizing the necessity of individualized patient treatment in the era of precision medicine, Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, Director of Oncology Services, Burjeel Holdings, said, “We are living in an era when patient treatment must be individualized. The same type of cancer can develop and behave differently in different individuals due to the specific underlying genetic and cellular changes. Today, we are blessed with having several options to target these specific changes but selecting the right therapeutic agent can be complex. We have thus developed a program over two days to tackle every aspect of the journey towards selecting the right drug for the right patient. This will inevitably uplift our standards of practice in the country and reflect on patient outcomes.”

Dr. Khaled Musallam, Group Chief Research Officer, Burjeel Holdings who highlighted the meeting’s goal to connect research with clinical practice, said “Our goal in this meeting was to offer a platform that connects the ‘bench’ with the ‘bedside’ and provide a roadmap for best-practice to the treating clinicians. The longstanding experience of the WIN Consortium as a global reference for research and education on precision oncology and the vision of Burjeel Holdings to bring the standards of cancer care and research to international levels were key ingredients to the recipe for success of this meeting.”

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – February 26, 2024: During a celebration held on the occasion of International Childhood Cancer Day, which falls on February 15 of each year, the continuous cooperation between the “Make A Wish” foundation, the Ministry of Interior, and Burjeel Medical City contributed to granting the wishes of 6 children, aged between 4 and 14 years old, suffering from cancer and undergoing treatment at Burjeel Medical City, the leading quaternary hospital under the Burjeel Holding Company.

The ceremony was attended by Colonel Mohammed Butti Al Shamsi, Director of the Public Relations Department at the Ministry of Interior; Rola Abu Mannah, Board Member of the “Make A Wish” foundation; Hani Al Zubeidi, CEO of the “Make A Wish” foundation; Ibrahim Abu Ghaida, Chief Medical Officer at Burjeel Medical City; the medical and administrative staff at Burjeel Medical City; in addition to the Happiness Police and cartoon police characters, and the families of the children.

The wishes of the children varied between performing Umrah, obtaining iPad Pro and iPhone devices, electronic police cars, small ambulance cars, and going shopping to buy toys, in a ceremony organized by the foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior at the Burjeel Medical City building, amidst a wonderful celebratory atmosphere featuring a magical performance by the world-renowned magician “Drummond Money-Coutts”, who presented an interactive and astonishing mix of card magic and mind reading during the granting of the children’s wishes, as well as cake cutting and taking commemorative photos.

Hani Al Zubeidi, CEO of the “Make A Wish” foundation, stated: “The efforts of the world converge on February 15 to raise societal awareness about the seriousness of childhood cancer and to call for combating this fierce disease and contributing together to saving millions of lives annually by increasing awareness among individuals and governments in all countries of the world about cancer, in addition to correcting misconceptions and common myths about the disease.” He added: “Our celebration of this day aims to bring happiness, joy, and feelings of optimism to the hearts of some of our sick children and their families, and to inform them that their struggles with the disease can be accompanied by hope that their small and big dreams and wishes alike are supported by large support and kind-hearted individuals who seek to illuminate the bright future ahead of them.”

Al Zubeidi expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Ministry of Interior and to the philanthropists for their continuous cooperation and support, and to the management of “Burjeel Medical City” in Abu Dhabi for their distinguished care for the patients.

Colonel Mohammed Butti Al Shamsi, Director of the Public Relations Department at the Ministry of Interior, emphasized the importance of community participation and enhancing partnerships in support of efforts to protect the community and provide a safe and healthy environment for all its members, pointing out that the Ministry of Interior cooperates with all national institutions in

supporting community initiatives that contribute to enhancing the quality of life for the UAE community.

On his part, Ibrahim Abu Ghaida, Chief Medical Officer at Burjeel Medical City, said: “Seeing these wishes come true fills our hearts with great happiness. It is a great honor to stand with these brave children and their families and remind them that even in the face of adversity, dreams can come true.” He added: “We want to spread feelings of reassurance in the hearts of all families that we are committed to standing by them and supporting them on this journey. We also take this opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of early detection, receiving treatment, and community support in combating childhood cancer.”

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About Make A Wish Foundation:

A non-profit organization licensed by the Ministry of Community Development in the United Arab Emirates, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, with a noble humanitarian strategy aimed at granting the wishes of children suffering from life-threatening illnesses in general. So far, more than 6,700 wishes have been granted for sick children inside and outside the UAE suffering from serious illnesses, without discrimination based on gender, language, religion, or creed.

About Burjeel Medical City:

Burjeel Medical City, located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City – Abu Dhabi, is the primary medical facility of the Burjeel Holding Group. The hospital seeks excellence in healthcare by providing the latest specialized medical devices in medical technology. The hospital is also one of the few in the region to include comprehensive pediatric subspecialties such as childhood tumors, gastrointestinal diseases, neurology, and neonatology.

These include the launch of a pioneering telemedicine services project and a strategic memorandum of understanding

January 29, 2024

Abu Dhabi: e& enterprise and Burjeel Holdings, one of the leading healthcare services providers in the MENA region, today announced two landmark collaborations aimed at redefining healthcare in the UAE and beyond.. These include the launch of a pioneering telemedicine services project and a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU), both of which will revolutionise the realm of healthcare delivery.

The telemedicine services project exemplifies cutting-edge innovation in healthcare technology. Focusing on the development of a sophisticated cloud-based telemedicine application, the initiative aims to improve patient access to medical services by enabling remote medical care. It represents a transformative approach to healthcare that prioritises accessibility and efficiency across the region.

The MoU was signed by Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise and Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings  in the presence of Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e& and Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman, Burjeel Holdings.  This MoU signifies a strategic alliance to promote sustainable healthcare solutions. The partnership emphasises advanced telehealth, remote patient care monitoring solutions and achieving sustainable healthcare goals in  chronic disease management.

Alberto Araque, CEO of e& enterprise IoT & AI, said: “We are embarking on a journey of profound transformation in healthcare delivery, in partnership with Burjeel Holdings. These collaborations are not just milestones, but catalysts for a new era of healthcare where technology becomes a cornerstone of patient care. We envision a future where our advanced telehealth solutions go beyond bridging the gap between healthcare professionals and patients, to also redefine the healthcare experience, with the goal of leading the industry towards a more connected, sustainable and patient-centric future, where technology and healthcare converge to create unparalleled value for our communities and the environment”.

Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings, said: “Our partnership with e&enterprise is not just about bringing advanced technology into the healthcare sector; it’s about transforming the way we deliver care to our patients. By integrating sophisticated telehealth and remote patient monitoring systems, we are set to enhance patient access, improve care quality, and streamline healthcare delivery. Our vision is to establish a patient-centric, technology-enabled healthcare model that not only sets new industry standards but also addresses crucial societal and environmental challenges. Through this venture, we aim to reduce carbon footprint and build a more sustainable and accessible healthcare future for the region.”

The collaboration is expected to enhance patient access to healthcare services, significantly increase operational efficiency through integrated telehealth solutions and improve the quality of care through remote patient monitoring. The partnership also aims to streamline communication between healthcare professionals, promote a more efficient healthcare delivery system and establish a patient-centric, technology-enabled healthcare model that sets new industry benchmarks.

In addition, these joint efforts address vital societal and environmental challenges. They aim to reduce the carbon footprint associated with patient travel and hospital visits by increasing the use of telehealth solutions. The initiative also includes the implementation of eco-friendly healthcare practices through telemedicine, contributing to a more sustainable healthcare delivery model.

Recalling her family history, Elissa emphasized the need for early screening, particularly for breast cancer.  

Dubai: In a powerful symbol of triumph and hope for cancer patients and survivors, Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings, unveiled the ‘Ring for Life’ initiative during the inaugural day of Arab Health. Renowned Arab singer Elissa, a cancer warrior, graced the event by ceremonially ringing the bell at the BMC booth H6E59, becoming an inspiration to those navigating a cancer diagnosis. The initiative celebrates the significant milestones in patient journeys, from the commencement of treatment to the joyous moment of completion.  

Addressing the challenges posed by the projected $25.2 trillion global cost of cancer from 2020 to 2050, the ‘Ring for Life’ initiative seeks to raise awareness and promote solidarity among patients, healthcare professionals, and the broader community. The initiative signals the latest developments and advanced care that are reshaping the landscape of oncology.  

‘Raising Awareness is Crucial’ 

During her visit to the BMC booth, Elissa emphasized the importance of raising awareness about cancer in the Arab world, particularly given the high incidence rates, especially for breast cancer. 

Recalling her journey with cancer, Elissa said, “Considering my own history, along with my sister and father, who succumbed to cancer, I firmly believe that this disease can be successfully treated if detected early. Regular screening for women with breast cancer is incredibly important, given the significantly high cure rates compared to other types of cancer.” 

Elissa considers herself fortunate to have discovered her cancer early, even though she went through a challenging time upon learning about her diagnosis. Initially, as a public figure, she chose to keep her illness private. After completing her treatment, she decided to use her experience to raise awareness about the disease within the community. 

“Psychological support from family and friends for cancer patients is very important. Strength and encouragement from loved ones play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome the challenges of the disease,” she added.  

“I am proud to take part in this initiative that offers hope to those battling cancer,” said Elissa. Expressing her admiration for Burjeel Medical City, she added, “Burjeel Medical City is a specialized facility that offers comprehensive and advanced care for cancer patients all under one roof. Their technological offerings and world-class expertise are helping patients from everywhere.” 

The singer, who recently launched her Netflix series ‘It’s OK’, also interacted with visitors to the booth and shared words of encouragement with cancer patients.  

Medical Tourism in Focus  

Under the theme ‘Safeguarding Your Health at the World’s Safest City’, BMC’s complex care capabilities take center stage at this year’s Arab Health. Demonstrating its commitment to international patients and medical tourism, BMC is showcasing its cutting-edge technology and global expertise that have contributed to making it a healthcare hub for medical tourists from around the world. 

The booth gives an insight into the latest advancements in oncology for pediatric and adult patients. Its complex care capabilities across pediatric subspecialties, advanced orthopedics, kidney/liver transplant, head and neck services, advanced rehabilitation, and complex gynecology will be highlighted during the exhibition.  

His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and Her Excellency Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, were among the dignitaries who visited the BMC booth on the first day of Arab Health. Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Member of Board of Directors and President of Business Development, Burjeel Holdings, and Aysha Al Mahri, Deputy CEO of BMC, also participated in the event. 

Mr. John Sunil said, “Our participation in Arab Health reflects our dedication to elevating the UAE’s position as a top-tier destination for international patients. By showcasing our advanced capabilities in complex care and technological innovation, we are poised to lead transformative discussions on this global stage, underscoring our role in shaping the future of healthcare.” 

Throughout the exhibition, the BMC booth will host various high-level officials and experts to exchange actionable ideas on improving cancer care. The BMC booth will also witness collaborations with various entities.  

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Burjeel Holdings announces a scholarship program to support 30 students currently enrolled in medical programs. 

Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Holdings, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ACTVET), has unveiled a comprehensive program aimed at training and employing graduates from Fatima College of Health Sciences. Aligned with the UAE government’s Nafis program, the initiative is meant to raise the competitiveness of Emirati talents in the healthcare sector and encourage citizens’ participation in the private sector. 

Burjeel Holdings, one of the largest healthcare services providers in the MENA region, launched a scholarship program to support 30 students currently enrolled in medical programs. Upon completing the program requirements, these students will be offered employment opportunities within the group. This move by Burjeel reflects its commitment in line with the UAE leadership’s vision to support citizens and generate job opportunities for them. 

The agreement was signed by Mr. Ali Al Marzouqi, President of EmiratesSkills at ACTVET, and Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Member, Board of Directors, President – Business Development, Burjeel Holdings, in the presence of H.E. Dr. Mubarak Saeed Al Shamsi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Center for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, and Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings. 

H.E. Dr. Al Shamsi said, “Our collaboration aims to produce exceptional academic professionals adhering to global standards. We underscore the significance of nurturing partnerships between educational institutions and the private sector to offer graduates suitable opportunities in the local job market.” 

Furthermore, Dr. Shamsheer said, “The transformative impact of the collaboration is evident in motivating citizens to actively participate in the healthcare sector. Such strategic initiatives are important in supporting Emiratization and promoting a career path for Emirati talents across diverse fields.” 

The partnership between Burjeel Holdings and Fatima College of Health Sciences is a strategic move to uplift health education standards and broaden training and employment opportunities for UAE citizens. The collaboration is driven by a shared vision to enhance patient well-being in the UAE, with Burjeel Holdings committed to nurturing healthcare professionals poised to shape the future of healthcare. The initiative equips graduates with essential skills and builds a synergistic relationship between academia and healthcare sectors, marking the start of sustainable strategies for employing and training new graduates. 

[ENDS] 

The Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute aims to be a hub for complex care in the field of otolaryngology-head & neck surgery. 

Abu Dhabi: As part of its ongoing efforts to expand its offerings in complex care and pediatric sub-specialties, Burjeel Holdings, one of the leading private healthcare services providers in the MENA region, has launched a pioneering Head and Neck Institute at its flagship facility, Burjeel Medical City. The Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute is designed to provide comprehensive and advanced services in the field of otolaryngology (ear, nose, throat)-head & neck surgery. A dedicated Thyroid Parathyroid Center has been established as part of multidisciplinary team cooperation with the University of Kansas Medical Center, USA, to provide comprehensive care for all thyroid-parathyroid disorders. The Institute offers a range of specialized treatments and procedures, reinforcing Burjeel Medical City’s commitment to delivering world-class healthcare to patients in the UAE and beyond.   

The Institute was launched in the presence of Her Excellency Dr. Bushra Al-Mulla, Director General of the Family Welfare Authority; Colonel Dr. Mariam Al Nagbi, Head of the Ministry of Interior’s Medical Department; Dr. Rashed Obaid Alsuwaidi, Executive Director of the Healthcare Workforce Planning Sector, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings; and Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings; Dr. Ghuwaya Al-Neyadi, Non-Executive Director of Burjeel Holdings; and Ms. Aysha Ali Ahmed Abdulla Almahri, Deputy CEO of Burjeel Medical City.  

The specialized services include otology-neurotology, rhinology, hearing implants, head and neck surgery, laryngology, pediatric otolaryngology, and complex adult-pediatric airway management. Services also include cochlear implants, sinus allergy treatments, snoring treatment, advanced sinus and skull base surgery with stereotactic navigation, minimally invasive neck surgeries, complex head & neck surgery for benign and malignant conditions, pediatric airway endoscopy, hearing aids, and treatments for balance disorders. The Thyroid Parathyroid Center at the Institute delivers advanced treatments like laser thyroid-nodule treatment, minimally invasive endoscopic surgeries as well as complex and advanced surgery with neuromonitoring that will encompass the entire range of thyroid parathyroid conditions.  

Commenting on the launch, Dr. Shaikh Irfan Basha, Director of the Institute, said, “The launch of Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute reinforces our dedication to providing specialized, world-class care in the field of otolaryngology. We believe this Institute will positively impact those seeking specialized care for head and neck conditions in the region.”  

Dr. Yogesh More, Director of the Thyroid Parathyroid Center, highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach and cooperation with the University of Kansas, USA, in bringing world-class care to the region.  

The Institute stands as the newest addition to Burjeel Medical City’s roster of complex care centers. As a prominent quaternary care institution in the UAE, Burjeel Medical City takes pride in its innovative offerings, which include the Kypros Nicolaides Fetal Medicine and Therapy Center, the Paley Middle East Institute, and the Advanced Gynecology Institute. With the establishment of the ENT Head and Neck Institute, Burjeel Holdings continues its commitment to providing comprehensive and advanced care across a wide range of specialties, solidifying its position as a leader in complex healthcare services in the region.  

[ENDS]  

About Burjeel Medical City  

Burjeel Medical City is a 400-bed multi-specialty hospital and quaternary care center located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It offers high-quality specialized treatment and complex care in over 60 adult and pediatric specialties, aided by state-of-the-art medical technology and an international team of experts. Find more information at https://www.burjeelmedicalcity.com/   

In an extraordinary journey spanning continent, 26-year-old Maria Victoria travelled to Abu Dhabi to undergo the procedure when she was 26 weeks pregnant.

Abu Dhabi: Maria Victoria and her husband Gomez Sotelo were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child, but their joy turned to heartbreak during a routine scan at 23-24 weeks’ gestation when doctors discovered that their unborn baby had spina bifida, a birth defect affecting the spinal cord. The couple met doctors in their home country, who suggested an in-utero spina bifida repair to give their child the best chance at a healthy life. However, the main challenge before the couple was to undergo the procedure as early as possible because of the advanced gestation.

“My doctors recommended The Kypros Nicolaides Fetal Medicine and Therapy Center at Burjeel Medical City (BMC) in Abu Dhabi. After extensive research, I realized that it was important for my baby to undergo this procedure whilst inside the womb as soon as possible. This procedure would prevent damage to the brain and urinary bladder and improve my baby’s chances of being able to walk independently,” said 26-year-old Maria.

Given the urgency of the situation, her husband tried his best to accompany her, but his prior work commitments prevented him from travelling. Despite these challenges, Maria made the decision to travel to the UAE. “The weight of this new reality was overwhelming. However, I firmly placed my faith in God and embarked on this uncharted path,” she added.

With the support of doctors and dear friend by her side, Maria embarked on this extraordinary journey, hoping to provide her unborn child with the best possible care. BMC expedited Maria’s visa and other travel arrangements and in 14 days she reached Abu Dhabi for the procedure. To minimize any further delays, medical teams in the UAE and her home country collaborated to conduct essential scans and tests on Maria before she left her home country.

According to Dr. Mandeep Singh, Consultant, Fetal Maternal Medicine and Fetal Surgeon, who led the team of doctors, performing the procedure at an earlier stage is more favorable for the baby since it minimizes potential damage to the spinal cord.

“It is well understood that the spinal canal defect should be ideally closed before 26 weeks. In fact, it’s technically possible to perform the procedure up to 29 weeks, but the critical question is whether it would genuinely benefit the baby. This is precisely why it’s imperative to act as early as possible,” said Dr. Mandeep.

According to Dr. Mandeep, in-utero spina bifida repair in the womb has been shown to significantly reduce risk of deficiency in physical ability and hence improve the baby’s chances for a better future. The procedure involves operating on the fetus while still in the womb to repair the spinal defect and reduce the risk of complications that can occur with open spinal surgery after birth.

Upon her arrival at BMC, Maria was welcomed by a team of highly skilled and compassionate medical professionals who were ready to perform the delicate in-utero spina bifida repair. Apart from Dr. Mandeep, the multidisciplinary team included Dr. Mauricio Herrera, visiting physician and renowned fetal surgeon, Dr. Essam Elgamal, Consultant Neurosurgery, Dr. Rajasekhar Cingapagu, Specialist Pediatric Surgery, Dr. Ahmed Omran, Consultant, Anesthesia, and specially trained operation theatre staff.

A Challenging, Large Defect

The 5-hour long procedure was challenging due to the nature of the defect as it was a large defect. “Smaller defects typically span two to three segments of vertebral bodies. In contrast, larger defects encompass more than four segments of vertebral bodies. Closing these larger defects can pose greater challenge for neurosurgeons due to the size and deficient skin available to close the defect,” said Dr. Mandeep.

Additionally, there’s a constraint of time when performing the closure because of the constant manipulation of the uterus, risk of preterm labor and placenta separation. This limited timeframe makes the closure process more demanding, particularly in the case of large defects, which always present a significant challenge, according to the doctor. “However, the procedure went well, and we managed to close the defect successfully and there were no complications during the procedure,” added Dr. Mandeep.

Hopeful after the positive outcome, Maria expressed her deep gratitude to the medical team at BMC, the UAE leadership and the organization that made her journey possible, and her steadfast friend and family who offered support throughout this challenging ordeal.

After successfully undergoing the recovery process at BMC, Maria has returned to her home country for delivery.

In a heartwarming achievement, Alfai Al Marzooqi has etched her name in history as the youngest female to publish a book in Guinness World Records. This extraordinary feat was announced at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, where Alfai was born.

The hospital facilitated the publication of her book and the subsequent recognition by Guinness World Records.

The five-year-old’s journey into the literary world began with a collection of imaginative drawings that transformed into a published book, highlighting the friendship shared among children. Her book ‘The Lost Rabbit’ revolves around themes of compassion, love for animals, and the importance of caring for one another. The characters in her story, Alfai, Salma, her friend, and the latter’s lost rabbit, Fufu, take readers on a heartwarming journey of friendship and kindness.

The book was not only written but also illustrated entirely by Alfai herself, who has already showcased her work at various book fairs.

Eminent Emirati writer Mariam Nasser, officials of the Emirates Heritage Club, Omran Al Khoori, Member of the Board of Directors and President of Business Development, Burjeel Holdings, and Waleed Tawfik, Chief Operations Officer, Burjeel Hospital, presented her the Guinness Certificate at the event. Alfai also signed copies of her book to the children at the event.

Omran expressed the hospital’s pride in supporting Alfai’s global achievement. “Alfai is a daughter of this hospital, and we all know her and her skills from her childhood. We decided to help her achieve her dream of publishing this book and facilitate her entry into the Guinness Book of Records. At Burjeel, we are committed to nurturing these young talents, enabling them to build themselves and the country,” Omaran said.

Alfai’s mother, Teeb Al Barri, shared that her daughter’s passion for storytelling emerged at the tender age of two. She loved to listen to the stories that her mother read to her before bed and would ask thought-provoking questions. “She would always ask me strange questions, like ‘How old is the tree’ and ‘Do roses laugh’? She was not interested in TV or tablets like other children but was focused on books,” said her mother.

Teeb revealed that it took just three days for Alfai to write, draw, and colour the entire story of ‘The Lost Rabbit’, showcasing her exceptional creativity and dedication.

Alfai, currently in first grade, aspires to be an international fashion designer, drawing inspiration from her love of reading and storytelling. In pursuit of this dream, the family has launched the exclusive ‘Tell and Tale’ brand, showcasing Alfai’s unique and artistic fashion pieces.

Alfai’s father, Yaqoub Al Marzooqi, expressed immense pride in his daughter’s achievement. “We all feel proud as we worked for several months on this title and collaborated with many parties, including Dar Sama for publishing and distribution to ensure we reached audiences at book fairs.”

The Al Marzooqi family’s commitment to fostering talent also extends to Alfai’s four-year-old brother, Hamad Al Marzooqi, who is aiming to set the Guinness Record for the youngest Emirati chef and entrepreneur in the children’s category. The family’s collective support continues to shape the remarkable journeys of their young ones.

Read more: gulftoday

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, has visited Palestinian children and their families receiving medical treatment in UAE hospitals, as part of the continued humanitarian relief initiative supporting the Palestinian people.

His Highness attended the bedside of injured children and adult family members, as well as child cancer patients from Palestine, who are receiving treatment in the UAE following directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to treat 1,000 Palestinian children at UAE healthcare facilities.

His Highness spoke with the children and their families and wished them a speedy recovery.

Read more: mediaoffice.abudhabi

Merghani Osman and Aisha Nasser were crowned champions after completing 20 km each in the 60-minute run challenge

Following closely on the heels of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, Dubai’s fitness and sports enthusiasts were treated to a distinctive fun run experience on December 10. The Burjeel Run Challenge, a one-of-a-kind event, witnessed participants pushing their limits to cover the maximum number of one-kilometer laps within a one-hour time frame. The event was hosted by Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai, in collaboration with Super Sports and Skechers, and under the auspices of the Dubai Sports Council. The event, held in the vicinity of the hospital on Sheikh Zayed Road, saw a remarkable turnout, embodying the spirit of health, fitness, and community engagement.

This year’s theme, ‘Run Your Own Race – Be Fit and Stay Healthy,’ emphasised personal growth and health over competition, resonating with the ethos of Burjeel Hospital, which serves as an exclusive advanced surgery and orthopedic center in the UAE.

Merghani Osman and Aisha Nasser emerged as the overall winners in the male and female categories, demonstrating remarkable stamina and determination. Both covered a distance of 20 km during the one-hour run.

Bruno Dsouza, COO, Dubai and Northern Emirates, Burjeel Holdings, highlighted the event’s significance, “The Burjeel Run Challenge is more than just a race; it is a celebration of individual health and endurance. It exemplifies our commitment to encouraging a healthy lifestyle in the community. We are thrilled to have hosted this event right here at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai, showcasing our facilities and the importance of orthopedic health.”

The challenge attracted diverse participants, including families, running clubs, and individual enthusiasts. Nasser said: “Participating in the Burjeel Run was an exciting experience. Burjeel Run offered an inspiring platform to keep our spirits elevated and continue spreading the vital message of health and wellness. It’s not just about winning but about pushing your limits and staying healthy. The atmosphere was electrifying and running by the hospital reminded us of the importance of maintaining good health.”

The event also served as an opportunity for Burjeel Hospital to create awareness of orthopedics and its role in promoting health and wellness. Equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology, the hospital features dedicated departments for various medical specialties, ranging from sports injuries to orthopedic procedures. The run, starting and finishing at the hospital’s doorstep, allowed participants and spectators to interact with expert doctors and medical professionals, who cater to diverse medical needs, including scoliosis, joint replacements, and surgeries for the hip, foot, and ankle.

Dr Nayzak Thahir Raoof, regional CMO and consultant anesthesia (HOD); Prof. Dr Erik Hohmann, consultant orthopedic surgeon (specialised in sports medicine); Tuhin Sengupta, regional director operations, Amrtha Venugopal, operations manager; and Warren Van Der Merwe, managing director of Super Sports Group interacted with the participants.

The Burjeel Run Challenge concluded on a high note, with participants and organisers looking forward to making it an annual fixture on Dubai’s fitness calendar.

Read more: khaleejtimes