100 kind souls unite to give Dubai boy the gift of hearing

Dubai: Fifty three hours, 100 kind souls and a boy, just five.

That about sums up an unlikely initiative held for a cause in Dubai last weekend.

Organised by I Love Supersport Dubai, a sports school based in Dubai, the initiative called Challenge535353, saw 100-plus swimmers, runners and cyclists uniting to help change the life of five-year-old Feroz, who was born deaf.

As the campaign ran for 53 hours coinciding with the 53rd anniversary of the UAE, the determination behind every stroke and every stride was unmistakable: To give Feroz the gift of hearing.

“We are humbled by the extraordinary efforts of everyone involved to get Feroz a cochlear implant,” said Marina Mustafina of I Love Supersport Team.

“This campaign held with due permission from the authorities not only marked a milestone in Feroz’s life but also showcased the spirit of generosity and determination within the UAE community,” she said.

Participants and donors alike did their bit to raise Dh39,000 towards buying a cochlear implant for Feroz, said Mustafina.

Rohan Pinto, one of them, said, “Very happy top play a tiny part in this huge and life-changing cause for Feroz.”

Rajesh Sajnani, another participant, said, “It’s a privilege to be part of this event and be able to contribute to a good cause.”

Torry, a third, echoed their words: “It was wonderful to take part with all of you.”

According to Mustafina, the love of sport and a healthy lifestyle greatly unites people. Sport is a habit that raises life to a new level, she said, adding, “Our dream is to involve two per cent of the world’s population in sport. The daily reality of the world will automatically change after that.”

Challenge For Feroz: Distance covered

Swim: 146.68km

Cycling 1414.1km

Running: 533.64km

Total distance 2094.42km