Make-A-Wish Foundation celebrated World Diabetes Day by fulfilling the wishes of 11 children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The celebration took place during a special event held with the generous support of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and hosted by both the Imperial College London Diabetes & Endocrinology Center and the HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center, part of the M42 group.
The event was held at the center’s premises in the presence of representatives from ADFD; Ms. Muna Al Jaber, Board Member of Make-A-Wish Foundation; Ms. Noha El Shorbagy, the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer; as well as a distinguished group of doctors, specialists, and the children’s families.
The children’s wishes ranged from the latest electronic devices and interactive games to travel experiences. The joyful atmosphere filled the hearts of the children and their families, reflecting the Foundation’s mission to spread hope and bring smiles to young patients.
Muna Al Jaber expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development for its continued support and noble efforts in enabling the Foundation to fulfill children’s wishes and bring happiness to their lives. She emphasized that this support reflects the spirit of generosity and social responsibility that characterizes the nation’s institutions and contributes to creating a meaningful and lasting humanitarian impact.
In her remarks on the occasion, Al Jaber said:
"At Make-A-Wish UAE, we believe every child deserves a moment of joy that lights their path with hope. We are delighted to celebrate World Diabetes Day alongside our partners—Imperial College London Diabetes & Endocrinology Center, HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center, and Abu Dhabi Fund for Development—who share a noble humanitarian goal: supporting our young patients and empowering them to experience moments filled with happiness and positivity."
She added that since its establishment, the Foundation has fulfilled more than 1,600 wishes for children with diabetes from over 80 nationalities around the world, affirming that this humanitarian journey continues thanks to the generous support of partners and sponsors who believe in the value and impact of giving.
For his part, His Excellency Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, affirmed that this initiative aligns with the Fund’s strategic approach to supporting community-focused programs. He noted that the Fund’s participation reflects its commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships that promote social solidarity and shared responsibility within the community. His Excellency added that ADFD pays special attention to initiatives related to children’s health, considering this support an important step toward achieving noble humanitarian goals and providing opportunities that inspire hope for a bright future.
Dr. Mai Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Outpatient Facilities at M42—which includes both Imperial College London Diabetes & Endocrinology Center and HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center—stated:
"At M42, our mission goes beyond delivering world-class healthcare; it is about cultivating hope and enhancing quality of life. We are incredibly proud of our partnership with Make-A-Wish and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development in bringing joy to children living with diabetes. Our physicians witness the courage and resilience of these young warriors every day, and seeing their smiles today reminds us that compassion and care lie at the heart of everything we do."
The event concluded with feelings of pride and gratitude, as Make-A-Wish reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling more wishes for children of all backgrounds and nationalities, embodying the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership in making the country a beacon of goodness, humanity, and generosity.