Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
In a world where many mothers silently face pain and struggle, Hala Abbas, a long-time resident of the United Arab Emirates, has become a strong and comforting voice for those caring for children with rare diseases. Her story is one of love, loss, strength, and courage.
Hala, originally from Palestine, has lived in the UAE for over 25 years. She is the mother of two sons — Mahmoud and Zain — who both suffered from Mitochondrial Disease. This rare genetic disorder affects how energy is produced in the body’s cells. Though it made them unable to walk, speak, or eat without help, their minds remained sharp and intelligent.
Thanks to the support of the UAE Ministry of Education, both boys were able to attend regular schools. Their journey, however, was far from easy.
A Mother’s Journey Through Illness and Care
Hala devoted her life to caring for her sons. As their disease progressed, the boys became fully dependent on her. She took care of everything — from school transportation and therapy to feeding and learning support. Since medical treatments were expensive, Hala even taught herself techniques in speech, physical, and occupational therapy to give her sons the best possible care.
Despite their physical challenges, Mahmoud and Zain both excelled in school and showed special talents. Mahmoud, for instance, had a brilliant memory and a deep love for reading.
Mahmoud's Love for Books and Recognition by UAE Leadership
In 2016, Mahmoud joined the Arab Reading Challenge, a competition that welcomes people of determination. Though Mahmoud couldn’t speak, Hala helped by reading books to him and training him to understand and express his ideas using alternative communication methods.
When Mahmoud met the judging panel, they were amazed by his knowledge and understanding. While he did not win the top prize, he was personally honored by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who signed his certificate and welcomed him on stage with the winners.
This was a proud and emotional moment for Hala and her family. But just three years later, in 2019, Mahmoud passed away at the age of 12.
Zain's Talent Shines Through Art
After Mahmoud’s death, Hala focused on Zain’s unique gift — his love for art. Even with limited hand movement, Zain could draw beautiful and detailed images. He joined UNICEF’s Blue Dot art competition, which invited children from across the Middle East and North Africa to submit weekly artworks.
Zain completed all seven artworks. Four of his pieces were chosen to be included in a global digital book, shared with audiences around the world. It was another proud moment for Hala — proof that Zain’s abilities were greater than his limitations.
Sadly, in 2024, Zain also passed away — this time at age 15.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
After Zain’s passing, Hala allowed herself one month to grieve. Then, filled with faith and love, she stood up again — not for herself, but to honor the memory of her sons.
She had already spent years in hospitals, learning from doctors and researchers. She transformed her home into a place of learning and healing. With this knowledge, she became an advocate for other families going through similar struggles.
Advocacy Work Through the MENA for Rare Diseases Congress
In 2021, Hala helped launch the MENA for Rare Diseases Congress — a regional platform to spread awareness and knowledge about rare conditions. From 2021 to 2025, she has worked to organize the event, which brings together medical experts, parents, caregivers, and policymakers.
Hala has also spoken at the Congress for two years in a row, bravely sharing her story in front of large audiences. In 2025, she invited mothers from Kuwait, Oman, Turkey, and the UAE to join her on stage. Many of them had never spoken publicly about their children’s conditions. Through Hala’s encouragement, they found their voices — and discovered helpful services available in the UAE.
She Is Not a Doctor — But She Lived What Doctors Study
Hala often says:
“I may not be a doctor, but I’ve lived what doctors only study. I am the evidence that every mother can rise, even through unbearable pain.”
Even during her sons’ lifetimes, she focused on what they could do, not what they couldn't. She created custom learning plans, worked with teachers daily, and gave her boys the tools to thrive despite their health challenges.
A Tribute in Words and Action
Now, Hala is working on a literary project that tells her story — and the stories of other families like hers. It’s a tribute to the quiet power of mothers. It speaks of love, sorrow, faith, and strength.
Through her writing, Hala wants to comfort other mothers who feel alone. She says:
“Don’t ask ‘what if.’ Don’t punish yourself. Cry—because crying heals. But remember: your child’s memory is alive. Every prayer, every tear, every act of love still reaches them.”
To society, she sends a strong message:
“Don’t look at children of determination with pity. Look at them with pride. They are not burdens. They are brilliance wrapped in struggle. And you, their parents, are heroes the world rarely sees.”
A Light That Still Shines
Hala now runs a platform called “Voices of UAE”, where she continues her advocacy and awareness work. She says that Mahmoud and Zain’s legacy lives on — through every story, every awareness event, and every mother she helps find strength.
She reminds us that this story is not only about illness.
It’s about love that refuses to fade.
It’s about voices that still speak, even when they fall silent.
Support Her Mission
If you feel touched by Hala’s journey, you can support her work by:
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Following @mahmoud_and_zain on social media
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Sharing their story with others
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Sending a message of support to mothers of children with rare diseases
As Hala says:“Every follow is a hand on the shoulder. Every share is a voice for a child who cannot speak. Every message is hope for a mother who feels alone.”
Let’s be part of the light Mahmoud and Zain left behind — and help that light shine brighter for others.
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