Ahl Masr Burns Hospital has signed a cooperation protocol with the UAE-based Make-A-Wish Foundation to strengthen psychological support for children recovering from burn injuries. The agreement was formalized during an official visit by a Make-A-Wish delegation to the hospital's headquarters in Cairo. The partnership reflects Ahl Masr's holistic care philosophy, which prioritizes both physical treatment and emotional healing. Through this initiative, the two organizations will work together to fulfill the wishes of young patients—offering moments of joy and hope that are vital to psychological recovery and social reintegration. The signing ceremony was attended by Heba El Sewedy, Founder and Chairperson of Ahl Masr Foundation and Hospital, hospital CEO Rifaat Abdel Maqsoud, and Ahl Masr Development Foundation CEO Eman Sherif. Representing the Make-A-Wish Foundation were Board Member Hamdan Al Kaabi and Chief Operating Officer Noha El Shourbagy. The event was also attended by Abdulbaset Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Deputy Head of Mission at the UAE Embassy in Cairo, underscoring the diplomatic and humanitarian support behind the collaboration. "Treating burns goes beyond medical procedures—it must include psychological healing," said El Sewedy. "This partnership reflects our belief that restoring a child's sense of hope is as crucial as restoring their health. Even the simple act of fulfilling a wish can provide deep emotional encouragement and rebuild self-confidence." Hamdan Al Kaabi thanked the UAE Embassy for its support and praised Ahl Masr's leadership in burn treatment. "We are honored to collaborate with an institution so deeply committed to specialized and compassionate care," he said. "Their mission aligns perfectly with our goal of bringing hope to children facing serious medical challenges." Burn injuries are among the most psychologically traumatic medical conditions, with studies indicating that up to 32% of survivors experience suicidal thoughts during recovery due to physical pain, disfigurement, and social isolation. In response, Ahl Masr has developed a comprehensive treatment model that includes individual and group therapy, body image counseling, and resilience-building programs. Family involvement is also central to the healing process. The hospital provides resources to help families understand the psychological impact of burns and support their loved ones through recovery, creating a stronger home environment for long-term wellbeing. Ahl Masr's integrated care framework includes three core pillars, one of which is tailored psychological support. The hospital also runs a reintegration program that helps patients return to school, participate in art therapy and peer support groups, and attend therapeutic camps—activities designed to restore a sense of normalcy, self-worth, and community connection. Founded in 2010 and licensed by the UAE's Ministry of Community Development, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted more than 7,700 wishes to critically ill children in the UAE and beyond. Working with donors and volunteers, the foundation focuses on creating positive, empowering experiences for young patients facing life-threatening conditions. This new partnership with Ahl Masr represents a shared commitment to a humane and dignified model of healthcare—one that sees every patient not only as a medical case but as a whole person deserving of hope, joy, and compassion.
