Saudi speech and language therapist Ashwaq Al-Qahtani shared her experience of working with hearing impaired Syrian children in the border region between Turkey and Syria. She described feeling overwhelmed with joy at the opportunity to help these children and witness the end of their suffering. Al-Qahtani recounted the emotional moments when the children underwent cochlear implant operations, expressing the indescribable feelings she experienced when the children started hearing voices for the first time.
Al-Qahtani explained that she and the medical staff worked tirelessly for 18 hours a day to ensure the success of the 30 cochlear implant operations. She described the heartwarming receptions from the mothers of the children, who were overjoyed to see their children’s sense of hearing restored. The children’s reactions upon hearing for the first time ranged from crying to astonishment and surprise, but ultimately culminated in joy and excitement. Al-Qahtani emphasized that all the operations were successful, and the children are expected to reach normal hearing levels after certain stages of follow-up and rehabilitation.
The initiative carried out by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in providing medical assistance to hearing impaired Syrian children is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to help needy and affected populations around the world. Since the campaign began on the Syria-Turkish border region, the volunteer medical team has examined 638 individuals, performed 30 cochlear implant surgeries, and conducted 10 other ear, nose, and throat surgeries. Additionally, 130 hearing aids were distributed, and post-operative rehabilitation programs were implemented to ensure the success of the operations.
This humanitarian effort reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting the international community and alleviating human suffering. Under the guidance of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, the KSrelief was established to provide aid and relief to those in need worldwide. The organization operates on noble humanitarian principles with a focus on helping individuals lead dignified lives. The success of the cochlear implant operations for Syrian children highlights Saudi Arabia’s dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
Ashwaq Al-Qahtani’s dedication and compassion in working with hearing impaired Syrian children exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and humanitarianism promoted by the KSrelief. Her efforts, along with those of the medical staff and the support of the Saudi government, have resulted in life-changing outcomes for the children who underwent cochlear implant surgeries. The success of this initiative underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises and improving the well-being of vulnerable populations. Saudi Arabia’s leadership in providing medical assistance to those in need sets an inspiring example for other countries to follow in supporting humanitarian causes.
