Triumph Against the Odds: Naya’s Heartwarming Success Story at Age Eight

When Awareness, Faith, and Expertise Unite: A Journey of Perseverance and Achievement

SEHA’s Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, proudly shares the inspiring journey of Naya, an eight-year-old girl born with Down syndrome whose developmental progress stands as a beacon of hope. Naya’s remarkable growth is a testament to the outstanding, high-quality interventions provided by the Rehabilitation Centre at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City. All professionals involved in her care have delivered exceptional support, underpinned by expert leadership and consistent, compassionate effort.

Naya has made exceptional progress in her speech therapy. Once communicating with fragmented and underdeveloped language, she can now express her thoughts and needs in complete sentences—and is working towards fluency in three languages. Najla, Speech Therapist at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, shared her pride in Naya’s accomplishments, noting that her journey demonstrates what is possible with dedication and tailored support.

Through occupational therapy, Naya has attained full independence. Tasks that once posed significant challenges are now performed with ease, enabling her to participate in daily life like any other child. Anas, Occupational Therapist, described her transformation as truly rewarding and a reflection of Naya’s determination and spirit.

Similarly, in physical therapy, Naya has shown immense improvement in her balance and posture, overcoming a history of toe-walking. Karim, Physical Therapist, praised her as a true warrior for her resilience and progress.

Today, Naya thrives at Al Bateen Academy – Aldar, actively participating in school life without the support of a shadow teacher. Her seamless integration into the classroom reflects her hard work, the strength of the interventions she received, and the unwavering support surrounding her.

Naya’s family has been a vital source of strength throughout her journey. Her mother, Mrs Lina, expressed joy at witnessing Naya’s growth, crediting her achievements to determination and the exceptional care provided by the Rehabilitation Centre. Her father added that Naya’s story proves that with faith, hard work, and the right support, anything is possible. The family conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the entire SKMC team.

Naya’s story is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary potential that can be unlocked when awareness, expertise, and compassion come together. Her ongoing journey of resilience and success serves as an inspiration to families across the UAE and beyond.

Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, part of SEHA, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This recognition, in addition to its SEHA accreditation, reinforces the facility’s commitment to delivering exceptional, patient-centred care across both acute and rehabilitative services, in alignment with the highest international standards.