July 16, 2025
SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, proudly announces the remarkable recovery of Mayar Al Balushi, a young patient who overcame a rare and life-threatening illness thanks to the expert care at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC).
Only two weeks ago, Mayar, a previously healthy child, was admitted to SKMC, extremely unwell, after previously being transferred to us, urgently, from SSMC with fulminant hepatitis, Influenza A and encephalitis – a rare and poorly understood combination. Mayar began to deteriorate quickly and developed secondary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), an extreme immune response requiring emergent, intensive therapy after transfer.
Mayar’s recovery was due to a very complicated and carefully orchestrated course of treatment which included: intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), plasma exchange, steroids, anakinra, intrathecal methotrexate, broad-spectrum antimicrobials and very extensive supportive care. Her care team included members from paediatric intensive care, gastroenterology, haematology, neurology, rheumatology, infectious diseases, nephrology, immunology, metabolic genetics, and general paediatrics.
On 15 May, Mayar’s condition stabilised enough to transfer to the paediatric ward. Today, 23 May, she left the hospital healthy, strong, and smiling—a testament to her resilience and the dedication of the SKMC team.
“Mayar’s recovery is more than a medical success; it is a story of teamwork, determination, and the indomitable spirit of a child,” said Dr. Shatha Mohamed Al Taee, Consultant Paediatrician at SKMC, who closely oversaw her care. “This was a collective effort, and I am immensely proud of every member of our paediatric team who supported her with skill, compassion, and heart.”
Mayar’s journey reminds us that behind every hospital door are quiet heroes dedicated to saving children’s lives and reuniting families.
Part of SEHA and PureHealth, SKMC is changing kids’ health care through its strategic partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Their partnership aims to create a world-class paediatric centre of excellence in Abu Dhabi that blends SKMC’s regional leadership with Cincinnati Children’s global expertise. Together, they will raise the standards for paediatric care, research, and education, so children in the UAE and the GCC receive the best medical care available.
The partnership, which is based on shared values of innovation and compassion, is setting the stage for transformational change in paediatric health care for generations to come.
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