100 free heart surgeries to be done in Zayed’s memory

Abu Dhabi, Aug 28, 2012 (WAM) - Burjeel Hospital has pledged free cardiac surgeries as part of a compassionate community initiative dedicated to the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The initiative will provide 100 free heart surgeries to deserving poor patients in the Middle East. Founder and managing director of Lifeline Hospital Group and Burjeel Hospital, Dr Shamsheer Vayalil, said he wanted to launch the initiative as a tribute to the UAE’s founding father. “Sheikh Zayed dedicated his life to ensuring the welfare of all citizens, both in the UAE and throughout the Middle East, whatever their financial circumstances, and through Burjeel Hospital, we want to continue the legacy of his kind-hearted work.” The Columbia Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, which is ranked in the top 5 US hospitals for their cardiac programme, will be offering their expertise to Burjeel Hospital. The free surgeries are planned from November 2012, and a team of cardiac experts will soon commence the process of screening patients for their suitability for these free surgeries. – Emirates News Agency, WAM