Since its founding in 2012, the Pakistan Children’s Heart Foundation (PCHF) has funded 5,820 life-changing heart procedures for children across the country. Among these inspiring stories is that of 6-year-old Ali Hassan from Kasur, who bravely battled Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), a severe congenital heart disease (CHD) involving four heart defects that restrict blood flow to the lungs.
In TOF, insufficient oxygen-rich blood reaches the body, causing cyanosis a bluish tint on the skin, lips, and nails. Just two months after birth, Ali began showing these alarming signs. His worried parents rushed him to a local doctor in Kasur, who ordered an echocardiography (ECHO) scan. The diagnosis confirmed a critical birth defect that demanded urgent attention.
Devastated, Ali’s family learned surgery was inevitable, but initial medications offered only temporary relief. As the sole breadwinner a labourer supporting a family of 10 Ali’s father faced mounting despair. Years passed with his son’s condition deteriorating, and the Children’s Hospital Lahore’s long waiting lists made timely surgery impossible. The estimated costs seemed insurmountable.
Hope arrived through a kind well-wisher who introduced them to PCHF. Desperate, Ali’s father contacted the foundation immediately. After a thorough examination, PCHF’s team promised swift action, thanks to their generous donors individuals and organizations who make such miracles possible.
Ali’s corrective surgery was performed at the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital (ULTH), led by renowned Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon Dr. Salman Shah, a PCHF Medical Advisory Board member, and his expert team. During the tense hours of the operation, the family prayed fervently. Soon after, PCHF delivered joyous news: the surgery was a complete success. Ali had conquered CHD and emerged a true "CHD Warrior" with a bright, healthy future ahead.
Tears of relief flowed as Ali’s father expressed profound gratitude at discharge. "You’ve restored my faith in humanity," he shared. "I hope Ali grows into a good man who gives back." PCHF remains committed to ensuring no child in Pakistan with CHD goes untreated.
Legendary cricketer Misbah-ul-Haq, PCHF Board Member and Brand Ambassador for Pakistan’s first dedicated Children’s Heart Hospital & Research Institute, stands with the foundation in this vital mission. For families facing CHD, PCHF charity you can trust with all your heart is a beacon of hope.
