Al Jalila Foundation Aids 60 Organ Transplant Patients Through Lifesaving Campaign

Al Jalila Foundation, part of Dubai Health, has played a crucial role in saving 60 lives through organ transplants. This achievement is part of the 'Your Donation Saves Lives' campaign, which coincides with World Organ Donation Day on 13th August. The initiative underscores the Foundation's dedication to aiding patients with organ failure and promoting organ donation as a humanitarian act.

Since its inception in April 2021, the campaign has facilitated 60 transplants, comprising 53 kidney and 7 liver surgeries. Among these recipients are 24 children with kidney issues and 5 with liver problems. The programme continues to support over 65 patients who require life-saving transplants but cannot afford or access specialised care.

The efforts align with HAYAT, the National Programme for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation. This collaboration is part of Dubai Health’s integrated academic health system. Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, stated that the campaign has become a permanent initiative under the A’awen programme, which offers financial aid for critical medical treatments across the UAE.

Dr. Al Zarooni expressed gratitude on World Organ Donation Day: "We reaffirm our commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous donors... Their support represents a powerful model of human solidarity." The first edition alone funded nearly 30% of all organ transplants in Dubai.

Dr. Ashraf Al Hinnawi, Consultant Transplant Surgeon at Dubai Health, highlighted the thorough evaluation process for both donors and recipients before transplantation. "We conduct comprehensive assessments... to ensure the success of the transplant," he explained. Regular follow-ups are conducted post-surgery to monitor adherence to treatment plans and kidney function.

Ensuring Donor Safety

Living donors undergo detailed evaluations including kidney assessments, functional tests, and screenings for infectious or cancerous conditions. Psychological and social assessments are also conducted. Dr. Al Hinnawi mentioned that a multidisciplinary committee reviews all cases to determine donor eligibility, ensuring safety for both donor and recipient.

The 'Your Donation Saves Lives' campaign reflects Dubai Health’s commitment to putting "Patient First." By transforming into a permanent initiative under A’awen, it continues to provide essential support for those needing critical medical care throughout the UAE.

With inputs from WAM