Kalimat Foundation Inspires Healing Journey With Library Donation At Great Ormond Street Hospital

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Founder and Chairperson of Kalimat Foundation, recently visited the Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children. The visit aimed to understand the Centre's innovative work in creating advanced treatments for rare paediatric diseases. During this visit, the Kalimat Foundation donated a portable library to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) as part of its 'Pledge a Library' initiative.

The library donation includes 100 books in Arabic and English, designed to inspire young patients at GOSH. These books aim to spark curiosity and creativity, offering children an escape into a world of imagination and dreams. "We believe stories have the power to heal and connect," stated Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi. "Through the Pledge a Library initiative, Kalimat Foundation seeks to give children hope when they need it the most."

Dr. Matthew Shaw, Chief Executive of GOSH, along with Professor Claire Booth, welcomed the Kalimat Foundation delegation. Dr. Shaw expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasising its importance in providing holistic care that includes education and play. "We are deeply grateful to the Kalimat Foundation for this generous gesture," he said. "Reading sparks imagination and creativity."

The Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children is a collaboration between Great Ormond Street Hospital, University College London, and Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Opened in 2019, it is the first centre globally dedicated solely to paediatric research on rare diseases. The Centre hosts over 500 clinicians and scientists working on new treatments and cures.

The visit concluded with Sheikha Bodour meeting young patients and their families at GOSH's International and Private Care Centre. Gifts and messages of encouragement were shared with those receiving care there. This gesture reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the experience of children from around the world who come to GOSH for life-changing treatment.

Dr. Shaw highlighted that supporting education and play is crucial for children in hospitals far from home. He noted that these elements are essential parts of growing up that should not be missed by young patients at GOSH.

The partnership between Kalimat Foundation and GOSH underscores their mutual dedication to improving children's experiences during challenging times. By providing access to stories through books, they aim to offer moments of calm and joy amidst difficult circumstances.

With inputs from WAM