ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth and the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, has announced the remarkable recovery of six-year-old child at Salma Rehabilitation Hospital following a severe traumatic brain injury. 

According to a statement on Wednesday, SEHA said that the child "Saed" sustained a critical head injury in a road traffic accident, arriving at Salma in a fully dependent state—unable to sit, communicate, or feed himself.

Despite these challenges, Saed began a comprehensive, multidisciplinary rehabilitation journey involving physicians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and nursing staff. A patient-specific plan was created with one objective: to restore his independence and enhance his quality of life.

Initially unable to control his head or trunk and fully dependent for all daily activities, Saed was introduced to specialised seating and positioning protocols to facilitate physical activation. Within two weeks, he progressed from immobility to walking with minimal supervision, an early milestone reflecting his determination and the effectiveness of his care team.

Physiotherapist Leonie Cristina Norris stated, “Although Saed’s sessions were full of play, the effort he put in was incredible. Seeing him walk out of Salma holding his parents' hands is something I will never forget.”

Occupational therapy addressed Saed’s cognitive and fine motor challenges. Through structured, task-oriented interventions, he relearned daily living skills, including brushing his teeth and using eating utensils. 

“In just three weeks, Saed regained his functional abilities, including dressing with minimal support and identifying colours and shapes. He could answer questions in Arabic and showed excellent cognitive improvement,” said Dheeba Veeraragavan, Occupational Therapist.

Speech and language therapy was equally transformative. Saed arrived dependent on tube feeding and non-verbal. He later progressed to speaking in full sentences and eating independently. “Play-based, child-led therapy helped him rebuild language and feeding skills. Watching him evolve from frustration to full communication has been deeply rewarding,” said Leeandri Govender, Speech and Language Therapist.

Dr Aly Rashwan Aly Zalat, Paediatric Specialist, added: “Saed’s condition on admission was complex and required a coordinated multidisciplinary response. Through the dedication of the team, Saed made an extraordinary recovery and now functions as a healthy, active child.”

Saed’s family played a pivotal role in his rehabilitation, providing continuous emotional support and working closely with clinical teams. Their engagement was integral to his successful outcomes.

Upon discharge, Saed had regained full mobility, cognitive function, and speech. He was able to run, climb stairs, communicate clearly, eat independently, and engage in play with others. He has since travelled abroad to continue his cognitive rehabilitation, with his physical recovery deemed complete.

This case underscores SEHA and PureHealth’s commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centred care. It highlights the transformative potential of paediatric rehabilitation and the critical role of family involvement in recovery. Saed’s journey stands as a testament to hope, resilience, and excellence in multidisciplinary healthcare.