Global network to support children with serious illnesses launched; Ziroat Mirziyoeva to chair it

On Wednesday, during the second International Congress on Pediatric Cancer in Samarkand, the creation of a Global Network for Supporting Children with Serious Illnesses was announced. The network's chair for two years is Ziroat Mirziyoeva, first lady of Uzbekistan.

The announcement was made by Vice President of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Director of St. Jude Global (USA) Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo. The network will unite first ladies and spouses of heads of state. Its goal is international cooperation and the exchange of experience in the interests of children with serious and life-threatening illnesses, including cancer.

Regarding Mirziyoeva's chairmanship, the Zamin Foundation, whose board of trustees she heads, reported the appointment.

The congress and its participants

The congress, held under the banner "Investing in Children's Well-Being," is titled "From Health to Quality of Life." Health ministers of Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Russia took part. Among the participants were also representatives of the World Health Organization, the International Society of Pediatric Oncologists, the European School of Oncology, foreign university clinics, medical centres, scientific circles and civil society.

Speaking at the congress, Mirziyoeva called on the global community, governments, scientists and humanitarian organisations to unite for specific and non-stop action.

"Disease and suffering do not recognise political borders, nationality or income level. Let us unite for a better future, so that not one child and not one family is left alone with their pain," she said.

Children from the Mehrli Maktab hospital school also spoke at the event and shared their experience. The project helps children undergoing long-term treatment in inpatient facilities continue their education.

Source: gazeta.uz