Sulaimani Hosts Art Exhibition by Thalassemia Patients
The artists sought to convey two central messages: the challenges of daily life spent in medical treatment and the unique talents they possess beyond their condition.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – An art exhibition dedicated to Thalassemia patients was held in Sulaimani, showcasing 109 paintings, including 28 created by patients themselves.
The event provided a platform for patients to express their struggles, hopes, and creativity through art. Fourteen-year-old Leah Abdullah, who has lived with Thalassemia since she was six months old, told Kurdistan24: “We, as Thalassemia patients, want to express our feelings through painting and other activities.”
The artists sought to convey two central messages: the challenges of daily life spent in medical treatment and the unique talents they possess beyond their condition. Organizers stressed that such initiatives not only highlight the patients' abilities but also play a vital role in their emotional and psychological well-being.
Kochar Karim, President of the Sulaimani Thalassemia Society, emphasized the importance of the program. “We place significant emphasis on artistic activities for Thalassemia patients because they help them see themselves as normal individuals, allowing them to momentarily forget their illnesses. Such activities are essential,” he said.
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) pays special attention to patients with Thalassemia. For example, on Tuesday, Erbil Health Director General Dlovan Mohammed announced that the KRG has officially launched a program to provide life-saving treatment for Thalassemia patients abroad.
Speaking at a press conference, Mohammed said the initiative will initially cover 140 patients, with the first group of eight set to travel for treatment in the coming phase.
He explained that Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has confirmed the government’s commitment to sending patients who require bone marrow transplants to specialized medical centers outside the Kurdistan Region. Of the 140 identified patients, 100 have already been found compatible donors and are eligible for the procedure. Currently, 40 of them are receiving treatment at four internationally accredited JCI-certified hospitals.
Read More: KRG Launches Project to Send Thalassemia Patients Abroad for Treatment
