According to his latest medical report, he has shown an improvement of about 98%.
Dubai: The Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, supported 47-year-old Syrian national Manhal Al Sharif through his treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), one of the most common types of skin cancer. The Foundation covered the full cost of his care at Dubai Health’s Dubai Hospital through its A’awen program, which provides crucial assistance to patients in need across the UAE.
Manhal’s journey began with a small growth near his left eye, which gradually spread, prompting him to seek medical advice at multiple hospitals. When doctors confirmed the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma, he faced the alarming possibility of losing his left eye. Confronted with the need for specialised care and the high cost of treatment, Manhal turned to the Al Jalila Foundation on the recommendation of a friend.
Within days, his case was reviewed and approved, and a treatment plan was arranged to ensure he received timely care.
In 2025, Manhal began his treatment at Dubai Hospital, undergoing thorough assessments and multidisciplinary consultations to determine the best course of action. His care plan included detailed imaging and specialist evaluations to address his condition effectively.
He underwent a complex procedure, during which the medical team successfully removed the affected tissue while preserving his sight—a moment of immense relief for both him and his family. As part of his treatment plan, he also received radiotherapy.
Reflecting on his experience, Manhal noted that the case evaluation and approval process by the Al Jalila Foundation was completed smoothly within five days. The rapid response, he said, played a crucial role in containing the disease and safeguarding his eye.
Manhal recalls the most difficult moment of his journey: being told that removing his eye might be the only option. “It was a shock,” he said. “But once I was transferred to Dubai Hospital, the doctors reassured me they would do everything they could to save my eye. That reassurance meant everything to us—it brought hope back to my family.”
He added: “I advise anyone going through this experience not to let fear take over, and to face the illness with confidence and faith in recovery. I also thank the Al Jalila Foundation for covering the treatment costs, and I deeply appreciate the medical team at Dubai Hospital for their exceptional care.”
During treatment, Manhal stepped away from work for around 15 months to focus on his health, supported throughout by his wife, son, and parents. According to his latest medical report, he has achieved approximately 98% improvement, with ongoing follow-up care, including continued monitoring of his eye.
