By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE, January 1 — World-renowned cricket umpire Aleem Dar, accompanied by celebrated actor and social worker Iftikhar Thakur, visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and met with LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol. The meeting was also attended by Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh, Vice President Khurram Lodhi, and Executive Committee members Rana Shouban Akhtar, Rana Nisar, Aamir Saeed Mian, and Syed Hassan Raza.
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The purpose of the visit was to highlight the ongoing work of the Aleem Dar Foundation in supporting children suffering from thalassemia, a serious inherited blood disorder affecting thousands of families across Pakistan. The foundation provides free medical care, treatment, and support to children with thalassemia, while also raising awareness about the disease and its prevention.
During the meeting, a detailed briefing was shared on the foundation’s initiatives, including the construction of a new thalassemia hospital designed to provide advanced treatment and care for patients in need. Representatives emphasized the importance of preventive measures, particularly premarital screening, as a long-term solution to eradicate thalassemia. This follows the recent passage of the Thalassemia Bill by the Punjab Assembly, which the foundation strongly supports.
Speaking at the occasion, Aleem Dar said, “Thalassemia is a disease that can be prevented. Through awareness campaigns, early screening, and proper treatment, we can ensure that children affected by this disorder have a chance at a healthy life. Our mission is to serve these families and reduce the burden of this disease on society.”
Iftikhar Thakur added, “Community support is crucial in fighting health challenges like thalassemia. By educating the public and advocating for mandatory screening, we can prevent new cases and save countless lives. The work being done by the Aleem Dar Foundation is a shining example of how social responsibility and compassion can make a real difference.”
LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol lauded the efforts of the foundation, stating, “The work of the Aleem Dar Foundation is truly commendable. Fighting thalassemia requires both medical support and preventive measures, and we are proud to support this noble cause. The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry stands ready to assist the foundation in its mission to save lives and improve public health.”
The meeting highlighted the critical role of collaboration between civil society, healthcare organizations, and business communities in addressing public health challenges. By combining treatment with education and preventive strategies, the Aleem Dar Foundation aims to create a lasting impact, reducing the prevalence of thalassemia and improving the quality of life for affected families.
With thousands of children across Pakistan living with thalassemia, initiatives like this are essential. By supporting hospitals, awareness campaigns, and preventive screening programs, the Aleem Dar Foundation is helping create a healthier, more informed society, while encouraging other organizations and individuals to join this life-saving mission.
