Six thalassemia children, unable to pay for a bone marrow transplant, are set to go to India for treatment with help from the Zakat Fund.

This year, the initial group of thalassemia patients is leaving the Maldives for treatment.

The ceremony was attended by Health, Family and Welfare Minister Geela Ali, Maldives Zakat House Director General Imthiaau Abbas, and Male City Group of Hospitals (MCGH) CEO Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem.

During the ceremony, representatives from the appropriate agencies informed parents about the significance of the program and the financial aid provided via the Zakat Fund.

Zakat House reports that last month, MVR 2.5 million was deposited with NSPA to fund the expenses for qualifying children. Support is offered according to the Memorandum of Understanding executed between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Health on February 21, 2024.

Since 2014, the Zakat Fund has been offering financial assistance for bone marrow transplant procedures.

Bone marrow transplant is the sole lasting solution that removes the necessity for frequent blood transfusions in patients with thalassemia. The process greatly enhances life quality and reduces lasting complications linked to the illness.

This year, treatment has been authorized for a total of 10 children. Alongside the six kids leaving in the initial group, preparations are being made for the other four.