Bangalore, May 08, 2009: Bringing a glimmer of hope to the young patients of Iraq, Narayana Hrudayalaya, the world’s largest centre for pediatric cardiac care has begun treatment of the second batch of Iraqi patients through the Dubai-based NGO Tareeq Al Zuhoor Campaign (TAZC). The NGO has tied up with Narayana Hrudayalaya to provide medical care at subsidised rates for 2,500 Iraqi children and adults over the next one year.

22 children aged as young as four months up to 15 years are currently undergoing treatments for congenital heart defects, neurological disorders, eye disorders, cancer at the hospital in Bangalore.

Dr. Devi Shetty, Chairman, Narayana Hrudayalaya says, “We have an abundance of medical expertise in our country, and more importantly, at an economical cost. We are doing all we can to fulfill our promise of providing quality medical care to the 2500 Iraqi patients. This second batch of patients that has flown in stands witness to our assurance.”

Mr. Ayad Abbas, Consultant and Philanthropist who travels with these patients to Narayana Hrudayalaya said, “The situation in Iraq post-war has left the poor and needy with no access to healthcare. Our NGO was witness to Dr. Devi Shetty’s speech at a leadership conference. Further interaction with him gave us hope for quality healthcare services at affordable costs at Narayana Hrudayala in Bangalore. We are already preparing our next batch of patients for treatment.”

The children along with a few adult patients in need of medical attention were brought to Baghdad from remote parts of the country by the TAZC. The investigation reports were sent in advance to the hospital after which the patients were selected based on the severity of their condition.

“We want to grow as an NGO and provide quality healthcare services to various patients in Iraq. We are also keen on bringing some of our doctors from Iraq to Narayana Hrudayalaya in the future to train them in various aspects of healthcare for the betterment of our country”, concluded Mr. Abbas.

NEWS