As the UAE’s first installation of its kind, the Tree of Life marks a major milestone in the country’s efforts to raise awareness about organ donation.
Mediclinic City Hospital Unveils UAE’s First “Tree of Life” to Honour Organ Donors
Dubai: Mediclinic City Hospital has unveiled the UAE’s first-ever Tree of Life, a tribute to both living and deceased organ donors whose extraordinary generosity has saved and transformed lives.
Located in the hospital lobby, the Tree of Life serves as a focal point for remembrance, reflection, and awareness, celebrating donors and highlighting the lasting impact of their legacy.
The unveiling on January 27 coincided with the four-year anniversary of the passing of 17-year-old Viggo Sørensen, whose family’s decision to donate six organs saved five lives. Viggo’s mother, Nathalie Grall, said:
“Viggo’s life did not end when he passed — it continues through the lives he saved. Seeing the Tree of Life unveiled in his honour, and in honour of all organ donors, is incredibly moving. I hope it inspires others to see organ donation not as a loss, but as a powerful gift of hope and love.”
The ceremony was attended by living organ donors, representatives from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), Mediclinic executives, and clinical teams from the transplant, dialysis, and intensive care units, highlighting the collaborative effort behind organ donation and transplantation.
A milestone for organ donation in the UAE
As the first installation of its kind in the UAE, the Tree of Life represents a significant step in national efforts to promote organ donation. Hein van Eck, CEO of Mediclinic Middle East, said:
“We are deeply moved by the generosity of those who choose to donate life. The Tree of Life is a lasting tribute to organ donors and their families, and we hope it inspires others to consider this profound gift.”
Over the coming months, the hospital will invite additional organ donors and their families to add their names to the Tree, expanding the tribute and creating a living memorial that honours the enduring legacies of donors.
Mediclinic City Hospital remains committed to supporting organ donation initiatives and fostering a culture of compassion, awareness, and informed choice, encouraging more people to register as organ donors and continue the life-saving impact of this vital cause.
