Indian expat saves 4-yr-old daughter’s life in UAE’s first paediatric liver transplant

News Network
July 10, 2024

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Indian expat Imran Khan was ready to do anything for his four-year-old child who was suffering from a rare genetic condition. He donated a portion of his liver: a gift that would give his daughter Razia a normal childhood.

A 12-hour surgery — considered the UAE's first living-donor paediatric liver transplant — was performed at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), Abu Dhabi, saving the life of Razia.

The child was diagnosed with a rare genetic liver condition called progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 3 (PFIC). Imran and his wife were familiar with the devastating effects of PFIC — having lost their first daughter to the same condition three years ago.

“We had suffered the heartbreak of losing our first girl at our native place of Hyderabad. We didn’t want to lose another. We were anxious but careful, too, and discovered the condition early,” Imran, a UAE resident for 14 years and father to 3 boys and a girl, said.

Early signs

Razia, born in Abu Dhabi, started exhibiting symptoms like yellow eyes, gum bleeding, and extreme tiredness when she was just three months old. The parents immediately consulted doctors.

“Getting a transplant was the best available option. So, we were planning to do the transplant in India but lately came to know it is possible here in the UAE. BMC is near our home and offers an airlift service in case of an emergency,” said Imran, who lives in Abu Dhabi's Mohamed Bin Zayed City.

Razia was given medication and advised regular check-ups till she was old enough for a liver transplant.

Three months ago, a check-up revealed that Razia’s spleen and liver had enlarged, so doctors said it was time to consider a transplant.

Dr Rehan Saif, director of transplant surgery for Burjeel abdominal multi-organ transplant programme, said Razia’s condition was caused by a genetic mutation, which leads to an abnormality in the formation and secretion of bile components and bile acids leading to damage to the liver.

“It presents in infancy and early childhood as signs of growth failure and complications of liver failure. The only definitive and curative treatment for these children is liver transplantation,” said Dr Rehan, the clinical lead for the hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery and general surgery consultant.

A life-saving gift

Imran said that as a father and a husband, becoming a donor was an easy decision to make.

“We didn’t want to lose our daughter. Also, I wanted to keep my wife safe. She is a mother to other children, too. It was an automatic decision. The evaluation tests showed me as a match," he said.

The donor operation and the transplant were performed simultaneously by a team of experts in surgeries lasting 12 hours, Dr Rehan said.

“This is the first paediatric liver transplant done in the UAE. In the past, children needing such a transplant had to travel abroad, but now it is available here in the country. It’s a proud moment for all of us.”

The transplant team, led by Dr Rehan, included Dr Johns Mathew, abdominal transplant and hepato-pancreato-biliary surgeon; Dr Gourab Sen, general surgery consultant; Dr Ramamurthy Baskaran, anaesthesiology and transplant anaesthesia consultant; Dr Kesava Ramakrishnan, paediatric intensive care unit consultant; and Dr Shyam Mohan, paediatric radiologist.

“Both of them made an excellent recovery, and the child has been discharged two weeks ago. We expect her to have a normal childhood,” Dr Rehan said.

Ready for school

Before the transplant, Razia’s condition prevented her from attending nursery and achieving growth milestones appropriate for her age. Now, the parents and the young fighter are preparing for the new school year.

“She has battled a lot of hardships. We are proud of her. She knows that I have donated my liver to her. I have explained to her what and why she has gone through such a situation,” Imran said.

Razia is recovering well and has started playing with her siblings. “She is better. She walks, plays, and is happy. I am thankful to everyone. This surgery has come as a huge relief. We are proud of being part of the UAE’s history,” Imran said.

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News Network
March 20,2025

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Gaza’s health ministry says Israel’s renewed savagery has led to the massacre of at least 970 people in 48 hours.

The wave of deadly airstrikes that shattered a fragile ceasefire in Gaza on Tuesday has so far claimed the lives of at least 970 people across the besieged territory, the health ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

Before the resumption of the offensive, the death toll from the regime’s 15 months of genocidal war recorded by the ministry at midday on March 17 stood at 48,577.

By midday on Wednesday, the figure had risen to 49,547, the ministry said.

The health ministry also registered "one death and five severe injuries among foreign staff working for UN institutions.”

It said Israel attacked a UN headquarters in Deir el-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, on Wednesday.

The victims had been taken to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, the health ministry said.

Israel's military denied attacking a UN building in Gaza.

The UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) confirmed the death of one of its staff by an explosive that was "dropped or fired" on its building in Deir el-Balah.

"An explosive ordnance was dropped or fired at the infrastructure and detonated inside the building,” it said, adding that five others were injured.

UNOPS Executive Director Jorge Moreira da Silva said he was "shocked and devastated" by the death of a staff member.

“This was not an accident.”  he said, adding that "attacks against humanitarian premises are a breach of international law."

Bulgaria's foreign ministry said later in the day that one of its citizens working for the United Nations was killed in Gaza, without specifying where in the territory.

Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel threatened on Tuesday that the massacre of women and children in Gaza was “only the beginning.” He stands accused of committing war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Gaza.

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News Network
March 30,2025

Eid al-Fitr 2025 was marked with grand celebrations across the Middle East, as millions of Muslims came together to pray, feast, and rejoice. However, amid the festivities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait, Gaza stood in mourning. The ongoing conflict and devastation in Palestine turned what is usually a time of joy into a period of sorrow and survival for many Palestinians. While some regions witnessed fireworks and public gatherings, Gaza endured airstrikes, hunger, and loss, painting a stark contrast to the celebrations elsewhere.

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Muslims attend mass Eid al-Fitr prayers marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sunday, March 30, 2025

Gaza: Eid Amid Destruction and Mourning

In Gaza, the usual festive spirit of Eid was shattered by grief and destruction. Israeli airstrikes claimed the lives of several civilians, including women and children, leaving families mourning rather than rejoicing.

The usually vibrant markets of Gaza, once filled with people buying sweets and new clothes for Eid, remained eerily silent. Many families had no food to prepare the traditional celebratory meals, as ongoing blockades and supply shortages have left residents struggling for survival.

President Mahmoud Abbas declared that this year's Eid celebrations should be limited to religious observances, acknowledging the suffering of the people. In place of festivities, prayers were held for the victims of the war, and aid organizations worked tirelessly to distribute basic necessities to displaced families.

Saudi Arabia: Grand Celebrations Despite Regional Tensions

In stark contrast, Saudi Arabia witnessed grand celebrations with large-scale public events, concerts, and fireworks. The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) organized festivities across Riyadh, Jeddah, and other major cities. The night skies were illuminated with dazzling fireworks in places such as Boulevard World (Riyadh), Jeddah Art Promenade, and Al-Khobar Corniche.

Despite the revelry, many Saudi citizens expressed solidarity with Palestinians, with social media campaigns and fundraising efforts aiming to support those suffering in Gaza.

United Arab Emirates: A Festival of Luxury and Giving

The UAE celebrated Eid al-Fitr with traditional prayers, family gatherings, and a wide range of entertainment events. Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosted special cultural performances, and malls offered discounts and attractions for families.

However, amidst the celebrations, many mosques in the UAE emphasized the importance of charity, urging people to contribute to humanitarian efforts in Gaza and other conflict zones.

Qatar: A Blend of Joy and Concern

Qatar marked the beginning of Eid on March 30, 2025, with three days of public holidays and an extended break for government employees. Doha’s Corniche and Katara Cultural Village became focal points for celebrations, with thousands gathering to enjoy fireworks and live performances.

Nevertheless, Qatari authorities and charities continued their relief efforts for Palestine, highlighting the contrast between the joyous Eid atmosphere at home and the suffering of their fellow Muslims in Gaza.

Kuwait: Extended Holidays and Reflection

In Kuwait, Eid holidays provided a nine-day break for many employees, allowing families to come together in celebration. Traditional meals and prayers remained central to the festivities, but Kuwaiti media and religious leaders also focused on the plight of Palestinians, urging the public to donate and raise awareness.

A Tale of Two Realities

Eid al-Fitr 2025 presented a stark contrast between different parts of the Muslim world. While countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait indulged in celebrations, Gaza stood in ruins, mourning its dead and struggling to find basic resources.

The divide between those celebrating and those suffering was more evident than ever, making this Eid a time of reflection for many Muslims worldwide. The call for peace and justice in Palestine echoed throughout sermons and speeches, reminding the world that while the spirit of Eid is about joy and gratitude, it is also about unity, compassion, and standing with those in need.

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Media Release
March 19,2025

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Riyadh: The Gulbarga Welfare Society (GWS) successfully organized a grand Iftar gathering at Almas Banquet Hall, Riyadh, fostering a spirit of unity, generosity, and community service. The event brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and distinguished guests.

The evening was honored by the presence of Mr. Sharique Badr, Head of Political & Press Wings, Embassy of India, Mr. S K Naik Consul, Passports,  Embassy of India, Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed, Prominent Social worker and Mr. Abdul Majeed Bathruddin CEO UIC Ltd, as chief guests. The program was presided over by Mukhtarullah Jagirdar, President of GWS Riyadh Chapter.

Mr. Sharique Badr, representing the Indian Embassy, praised GWS for its commendable efforts in supporting the underprivileged both in Gulbarga, India, and Saudi Arabia. He assured the community of the Indian Embassy’s continued support whenever needed. "It is heartening to see the people of Gulbarga coming together to help those in need," he remarked.

Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed while speaking expressed his pride in being associated with a passionate team dedicated to humanitarian efforts, he appreciated the teams working both in Kingdom and in India.

Mr. Abdul Majeed Badruddin, CEO & Managing Director of Universal Inspection Company, shared his deep emotional connection with the people of Gulbarga and encouraged attendees to continue their prayers beyond Ramadan.

As a token of appreciation, a memento was presented to the Chief Guest Mr. Sharique Badr for this esteemed presence. Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed was also felicitated for receiving the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2025, while Mr. Abdul Majeed Badruddin was honored with the Business Tycoon Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to business excellence and philanthropy.

Syed Nasir Khursheed, Advisor of GWS Saudi Arabia, spoke passionately about the organization’s ongoing efforts in education, healthcare, and community welfare. He expressed deep gratitude to the Indian Ambassador and the Embassy staff for their unwavering support in helping expatriates navigate challenges. With sincerity, he appealed to the audience to join hands in supporting GWS’s mission, emphasizing that even small contributions can make a big difference in the lives of the poor and needy.

In his address, President GWS Riyadh Chapter, Mukhtarullah Jagirdar, expressed his happiness at the large turnout and emphasized the power of unity, stating that "our collective strength enables us to work more effectively for the welfare of our people."

The event was seamlessly conducted by Engr. Azharuddin, General Secretary of GWS, whose eloquent Urdu and poetic expressions captivated the audience. While conducting he delivered a message that Gulbarga Welfare Society remains committed to its mission of empowering communities.

Event began with recitation of the Holy Quran by Master Abdullah Zanjani, which added spiritual grace to the event.

Welcome Speech was delivered by Engr. Mohsin Shaikh, Meeting coordinator GWS, who expressed gratitude to the guests and audience for their presence, he highlighted benefits of Ramadan and charity.

Inspirational Words by Engr. Hishamuddin Chief coordinator GWS, reminding the audience of the divine rewards for helping others, quoting: "Whoever makes things easy for others, Allah will make things easy for them in the Hereafter."

Address by Engr. Adil Ali Joint Secretary GWS, who emphasized GWS’s commitment to uplifting the underprivileged by providing education, healthcare, and social support.

Vote of Thanks by GWS Vice President Engr. Tameem Ul Hassan, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the chief guests, sponsors, president, executive committee, and the audience for their invaluable support.

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