Lebanon’s First Lady Mrs. Nehmat Aoun Visit’s CCCL

She was warmly welcomed by the Esteemed Board Members Mrs. Asmahan Zein, Mrs. Nora Jumblatt, Mrs. Salwa Salman, Mrs. Lara Debs, Mrs. Mona Sidawi, Mr. Gaby Tamer, and Mr. Salim Zeenni, along with Mrs. Hana Chaar Choueib, CCCL General Manager, Dr. Fadlo Khouri, President of the American University of Beirut, Dr. Miguel Abboud, Chair of the Pediatric Department at AUBMC, our patients, parents, the Medical Team and CCCL’s staff. The patients showed their appreciation by giving Mrs. Aoun a bouquet of flowers wrapped in their own drawings, demonstrating their energy and inventiveness.

During her tour at the center, First Lady Aoun received a detailed briefing from Mrs. Choueib about the center’s history and mission, the advanced treatment methods it offers, and the high recovery rates among its young patients. She also listened to inspiring testimonies from the children about their treatment journeys.

The First Lady joined our patients in their wellness session which focused on music, and she participated in the activity prepared for them. She interacted with the children, joining them in singing, and listened to a touching performance of the Lebanese National Anthem on the piano by one of CCCL’s survivors, Rita. Mrs. Aoun praised the young girl’s determination and resilience, noting that her performance reflected a spirit of optimism and a love for life.

This beautiful visit came to an end with a speech delivered by First Lady Aoun, who expressed her gratitude to the center’s management and staff, commending their dedication to providing exceptional care and support to young patients and their families. She emphasized the importance of supporting such humanitarian initiatives, which play a vital role in healing and restoring hope for those battling childhood cancer.

Mrs. Asmaa Zein also delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing her deep appreciation for the First Lady's visit. As a token of gratitude and recognition, she presented the prestigious Golden Medal to First Lady Nehmat Aoun, honoring her support and commitment to the cause of childhood cancer awareness and treatment.

The First Lady concluded her visit by writing the following in the center’s Golden Book:

"To the Children's Cancer Center, thank you for all the support and care, and for every smile you have restored to the hearts of children and their families.
To my brave little heroes, you are the strength of the nation with your willpower, courage, and love for life."

Al-Zahraa Hospital

The First Lady visited CCCL’s Partner Hospital Al-Zahraa Hospital, where she was warmly received by Professor Youssef Fares, Chairman of the Board and General Director, along with medical staff, employees, and patients. Dr. Nada Sbeiti informed the First Lady about the latest treatments available for children with cancer, noting that the recovery rate at the center exceeds 80%, which aligns with the rates at leading centers worldwide.

Mrs. Aoun visited patients, engaged with their aspirations and dreams, and collaborated in their artistic activities by painting the Lebanese flag in the handicrafts room. This was intended to foster creativity and inspire hope among the patients.

She concluded her tour of the hospital by ringing the "Victory Bell" with children who had completed their treatment journey, while doctors, nurses, and the patients’ families applauded. She expressed her hope that this bell would continue to ring as a symbol of hope and triumph.