Two Pakistani children suffering from congenital heart disease successfully underwent advanced cardiac procedures at the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology (AFIC) in Rawalpindi after being forced to leave Pakistani children denied treatment in India without treatment due to rising political tensions.
Shahid Ali, the father of 9-year-old Abdullah and 7-year-old Munsa, revealed that Abdullah received heart surgery while Munsa underwent angioplasty. Doctors at AFIC have scheduled Munsa’s full corrective surgery for six months later.
The children initially traveled to India in search of specialized pediatric heart care. However, after the Pahalgam attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir, Indian authorities ordered all Pakistani nationals to leave, abruptly ending their treatment plans and sending them back home. The family returned disheartened, fearing the worst. Thankfully, Pakistan’s AFIC provided immediate medical support, proving the country’s ability to handle complex cardiac cases. The successful procedures offered renewed hope to the family.
The case sheds light on the medical challenges faced by cross-border patients and highlights Pakistan’s growing capabilities in cardiac healthcare. AFIC’s expert team stepped up to perform the required procedures, demonstrating the availability of world-class pediatric heart treatment within Pakistan.
“This journey has been heartbreaking,” said Shahid Ali. “We returned from India without hope, but AFIC gave our children a second chance at life.” His emotional account reflects the pain many families endure while seeking critical healthcare abroad. The success of these surgeries reinforces the need to invest in local medical infrastructure, ensuring that future patients can receive timely, high-quality treatment without facing international hurdles or political complications.
The incident underscores the severe humanitarian toll of diplomatic conflicts, especially when innocent children suffer the consequences. Several Pakistani families seeking critical treatment in India have faced similar disruptions amid deteriorating bilateral relations.
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