Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, enabled young Feroz to overcome congenital hearing loss through cochlear implant surgery, allowing him to reconnect naturally with his surroundings and return to everyday life. The life-changing treatment was supported through The Child Fund, which provides medical care for eligible children.

Feroz Khan, a Pakistani national born in 2019, was diagnosed after his mother noticed he did not respond when called. While he smiled at family members and engaged through eye contact, the family initially believed it was a speech delay. As concerns grew, medical assessments confirmed severe hearing loss requiring urgent intervention. At that stage, the family’s questions extended beyond treatment to Feroz’s future and his ability to communicate with the world around him.

A friend advised the family to approach Al Jalila Foundation to submit a treatment request. Following assessment, the case was approved and referred to Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, where all costs were covered through The Child Fund.

The medical team at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital confirmed that Feroz required a cochlear implant, an intricate pathway that includes surgery, hearing devices, auditory rehabilitation sessions, and ongoing follow-up care.

After a smooth recovery, the family reached a moment his mother says she will never forget: when the implanted device was activated, she called out “Feroz.” After a brief pause, she called again, only to see her child turn towards her in astonishment, as though hearing her voice for the first time. For the family, it marked a new beginning and the restoration of Feroz’s sense of hearing.

Following surgery, Feroz began his auditory rehabilitation journey, attending speech therapy sessions to develop verbal communication. Despite the challenges, he gradually began to speak, laugh, and call his mother and father, ultimately interacting with his environment in a natural way once again.

Commenting on the impact of the initiative, Dr Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are committed to providing comprehensive care for children facing health challenges, because we believe they deserve the opportunity for a better life.” He noted that strategic partnerships have contributed to establishing programs and initiatives such as The Child Fund, A’awen, and Ta’alouf, strengthening support for those most in need and sustaining efforts to advance healthcare goals through innovative solutions that improve lives and wellbeing.

Expressing his gratitude, Feroz’s father said: “Al Jalila Children’s Hospital gave us hope in addressing our child’s congenital hearing loss and opened the door for him to engage and interact with his surroundings naturally.”

He added: “My message to parents is to act quickly in finding solutions to their children’s health challenges. At first, it may seem untreatable and costs can be a major barrier—but in the UAE, nothing is impossible and helping hands are always extended.”

The Child Fund is a dedicated children’s charity program providing essential, life-saving medical support for children’s treatment at Dubai Health; while also enabling the community to contribute and strengthen a culture of giving, so that every child receives the care they need.