Dubai’s Dh33m gift saves boy, 14, and 59 others. Here is how

Dubai: Yousef Jashim was just 14 when he needed a kidney transplant to survive. Constant fatigue, regular dialysis, and strict dietary restrictions had taken a toll on his daily life. With the support of Al Jalila Foundation, Yousef underwent a successful kidney transplant that completely changed his future.

Roula Tabba’a, another transplant recipient, had endured dialysis three times a week since her kidney failure diagnosis in 2016. After years of waiting, she too received the life-changing call. A successful transplant made possible by the Foundation’s support restored her independence and wellbeing.

Yousef and Roula are among 60 patients whose lives have been transformed through the “Your Donation Saves Lives” campaign by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.

The campaign, launched in April 2021 and now a permanent programme under A’awen, has so far provided over Dh33 million in support for organ transplant patients across the UAE.

The beneficiaries

Marking World Organ Donation Day (August 13), the Foundation announced the milestone on Tuesday, highlighting Dubai’s commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and promoting the humanitarian value of organ donation.

The 60 supported cases include 53 kidney transplants and seven liver transplants, among them 24 children with kidney failure and five children with liver failure.

An additional 65 patients with organ failure continue to receive financial and medical support from the Foundation as part of its long-term care initiative.

Campaign that became a movement

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said the campaign has evolved into a permanent initiative under A’awen, which provides financial assistance to patients in need of critical medical treatment across the UAE, a step that aligns with Dubai Health’s commitment, “Patient First”.

 “On World Organ Donation Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous donors, individuals and institutions alike, who contributed to both the first and second editions of the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign. Their support represents a powerful model of human solidarity, with the first edition alone helping to fund nearly 30% of all organ transplants performed in Dubai,” said Dr Al Zarooni.

He also expressed gratitude to living and deceased organ donors and their families. “Your compassion has given others a second chance at life. We thank you for your extraordinary generosity.”

Ensuring safe, successful transplants

Dr Ashraf Al Hinnawi, Consultant Transplant Surgeon at Dubai Health, outlined the comprehensive process of evaluating both donors and recipients to ensure transplant success and safety.

“We conduct comprehensive assessments of kidney function and immune compatibility between the donor and recipient, along with detailed medical and surgical evaluations that include lab tests and imaging studies to ensure the success of the transplant. We also follow up with patients regularly after the procedure to ensure adherence to the treatment plan and to closely monitor kidney function.”

Living donors, he added, go through rigorous assessments, including screenings for infections, cancers, and psychological and social evaluations. A multidisciplinary medical committee reviews all cases to determine donor eligibility.

Community-driven mission

The campaign was launched in partnership with Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and Emarat Al Youm newspaper. Transplant surgeries were carried out at Dubai Health’s Dubai Hospital and Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, as well as Mediclinic City Hospital and King’s College Hospital London in Dubai.

Through A’awen, the Foundation continues to welcome donations from individuals and organisations to fund life-saving programs and extend vital medical care to those in need.

Stories of hope

Yousef Jashim’s life turned around after his kidney transplant. Fatigue and dialysis had once defined his life. After receiving the transplant at age 14, he regained his strength and no longer required dialysis.

His mother shared her heartfelt thanks to the medical team, Al Jalila Foundation, and everyone who contributed to her son’s second chance at life.

Roula Tabba’a is also among the beneficiaries of the campaign, following a long journey with kidney failure. She underwent dialysis three times a week, which caused severe physical and emotional exhaustion. Her condition was first diagnosed in 2016, and she underwent several surgeries.

Al Jalila Foundation covered the cost of her dialysis sessions and medical tests, eventually supporting her inclusion in the kidney transplant programme.