UAE: Wishes of 54 chronically ill children fulfilled for nation’s 54th Eid Al Etihad

In a heartwarming initiative, Make-A-Wish UAE has fulfilled the dreams of 54 children battling chronic illnesses, marking the nation’s 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations. The children, aged between 4 and 18, represent a diverse array of backgrounds and medical conditions, ranging from cancer and diabetes to rare congenital disorders. This initiative not only brought joy to the children but also provided their families with a renewed sense of hope and resilience. Among the recipients was 11-year-old Sultan, who fulfilled his dream of visiting Japan’s Universal Studios to explore Super Nintendo World, inspired by his love for anime and video games. Another child, 12-year-old Ahmed, wished for an iPhone and Apple Watch to better manage his diabetes and stay connected with his parents. Hani Al Zubaidi, CEO of Make-A-Wish UAE, emphasized the dual role of treatment—physical and emotional—stating that moments of happiness significantly uplift the spirits of these children, aiding their healing process. Since its inception in 2010, the foundation has granted over 7,950 wishes across the region, with more than 90% of children showing marked improvements in happiness and vitality post-wish fulfillment. This initiative underscores the power of compassion and community support in transforming lives.