UK's Al Khaznah Leathers Teams Up With Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City to Aid Young Burn Survivors

Established in 2003 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, Al Khaznah Leathers (AKL) stands out as a leader in eco-friendly leather production. In line with the Year of Community theme, AKL has partnered with Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC)—a leading medical facility in the UAE known for handling critical cases and part of the PureHealth organization—to launch an emotional campaign. This project involves gifting intricately designed camel-leather tortoise toys to young burn victims at SSMC. These aren’t merely playthings; they represent symbols of resilience, optimism, and recovery.

The hawksbill turtle, cherished in Emirati tradition as an emblem of toughness and determination, embodies the strength of youthful survivors who surmount challenges and become even more robust. Each intricately made camel leather turtle stands for every child's brave path towards healing and assimilation.

Every turtle represents not just a present but also a symbol of resilience; it serves as a reminder that despite all challenges, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel," stated Shamsa Muaid Al Ahbabi, who leads Al Khaznah Leathers as both the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. "Our aim is for each child to experience being acknowledged, backed up, and integrated into an overarching narrative of endurance and revival.

As part of this partnership, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) has introduced the Pediatric Burn Survivorship Program, which represents significant progress in providing extended care for pediatric burn victims. This initiative focuses on supporting children younger than 18 years old after they've been released from the Burn Center as they work towards readjusting within their social environments.

Dr. Marwan Al Kaabi, CEO of SSMC, commented on the new initiative stating, "At SSMC, our aim is to revolutionise how we assist our patients throughout their whole recuperation process. The introduction of our new Paediatric Burns Survivorship Program showcases our dedication to delivering thorough, patient-focused care that caters to their physical, psychological, and social welfare at every stage of healing."

To cultivate a feeling of belonging and inclusion, the program establishes a secure and encouraging space for pediatric burn survivors to recount their tales and encounters. Alongside our collaborators, we guarantee that each young person has the opportunity to reconstruct their life with strength and fresh optimism, thereby raising the bar in comprehensive recovery.

Designated as a Centre of Excellence for burn care by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.

Leveraging this robust base, the updated initiative represents a notable progression from mere medical care. It adopts an all-encompassing strategy that merges physical recovery with psychological backing, social involvement, and capability development. This aims to equip young victims with renewed self-assurance and enable them to flourish past their traumas. Individuals can access these services for as long as necessary, with enrolment being completely optional.

In contrast to conventional rehabilitation methods, this survivorship program focuses on fostering peer support, conducting educational sessions, promoting physical activity through sports, and encouraging social interaction specifically for young burn victims. This initiative creates an environment where these children can openly discuss their challenges, acquire effective coping mechanisms, and cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth among others facing similar circumstances. Tailored to meet the needs of both the children and their families over extended periods, the program delivers continuous help adjusted according to each participant’s distinct path towards healing and societal inclusion.