Dubai resident Stephen Melia recently completed a remarkable 50km run to raise awareness about rare diseases, partnering with High Hopes Pediatric Therapy Centre. Melia, a British national, has a history of participating in charitable initiatives, including running 560km in seven days for Palestine on Kite Beach in November 2024. His latest endeavor aims to highlight the plight of over 300 million people worldwide affected by more than 6,000 rare diseases, many of which lack known treatments.
Melia’s commitment to giving back stems from his extensive work with children of determination in both the UK and UAE. He emphasizes the importance of raising awareness, as rare diseases often receive insufficient attention. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s “Year of Community” in 2025, which focuses on bringing communities together.
High Hopes Pediatric Therapy Centre supports children with rare diseases through various therapies, including physical, occupational, speech, and behavioral treatments. The centre’s efforts are crucial in providing a supportive environment where families can connect and learn from each other. Aida Barghout, the centre’s general manager, commended Melia’s initiative, highlighting its impact on raising awareness and educating the public about rare diseases.
Dubai resident Samar Zananiri’s experience with her son, who suffers from neonatal epilepsy, underscores the importance of early medical intervention and the life-changing impact of High Hopes’ therapies. Her son has been epilepsy and medication-free for four months following treatment at the centre. The UAE government’s support for people of determination has been instrumental in providing necessary care and resources.
Melia’s run not only raises awareness but also encourages community engagement, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for all residents. As the UAE marks 2025 as a “Year of Community,” initiatives like Melia’s are pivotal in promoting unity and understanding among its diverse population.
