DUBAI, 13 April 2004 — Five brothers and sisters from Dubai, all suffering from a congenital blood disease, had their dearest wish fulfilled by a local charity — a car big enough to allow them all to go to the hospital together.
The five, between the ages seven and 14, have thalassemia major, need regular treatment at Al-Wasl hospital in Dubai. The Make-A-Wish Foundation (MAWF) arranged for their wish to be granted and threw in something extra as well, persuading Elekta Gulf, Jebel Ali to donate a 25-inch TV and DVD player for the children.
Al-Shohub School approached MAWF last month, and the staff and students have since been hosting various fund-raising events to finance the family vehicle.
“It has given the girls immense pleasure,” school owner and founder Sheikha bint Saif Al-Nayhan said when the car materialized.
MAWF’s national director for the UAE Lori Dillon thanked the school and its owner for their efforts.
The UAE-based international non-profit organization highlighted the contribution of the Emirates National Oil Company for donating 5,000 dirhams toward fuel expenses and Sharjah Insurance Co. for paying the car insurance.
“All of our partners have made an invaluable impact on the lives of our children,” said Lori Dillon.
“This is a very special wish, as there are five children in a single family with a life-threatening illness. It’s essentially five wishes combined into one,” she said.
