CAIRO: For years we've been seeing the creative fund-raising ads for the Children's Cancer hospital 57357. Public figures, actors, actresses and singers have been supporting the project by encouraging people to donate, especially during the month of Ramadan. It was only fitting that the hospital s official opening take place on the eve of the holy month, following years of diligent work by individuals, organizations, NGOs and companies. Located near a historic area in Sayyeda Zeinab, one of the oldest Egyptian districts, the hospital opened during a ceremony attended by the Minister of Social Solidarity Ali Al-Moselhi, a representative from the Ministry of Health, businessmen and journalists. Guests were given half-hour tours around the hospital building. The idea to build the hospital began in 1999 when Dr Abdel Rehim Shehata, former Cairo governor and Fathy Sorour, speaker of the People's Assembly, allocated a 20,000 square meter piece of land for the project. McDonald's is among the leading donors and was one of the early believers in the hospital. It contributed about LE 4 million towards the project.The company is also planning to organize special events and fun days for the children being treated there. Executed by Orascom Construction Company the hospital was completed over four phases, coming to an end in May 2003. Despite criticism over the large amounts of money spent on the construction, many argue that the hospital is meant to be a landmark rather than just a hospital. It is expected to later become one of the top Children's Cancer hospitals worldwide, attracting patients from inside and outside the country. So far, the hospital is equipped with about 180 beds, 28 out-patient clinics, seven operating rooms and four bone marrow transplant rooms.
