ISLAMABAD – Ayesha Farhan’s short life may have been filled with heartache, but her legacy continues to resonate across the nation, offering hope and a second chance at life to countless children battling congenital heart disease (CHD).
Born into a loving family, Ayesha’s future was tragically cut short when she was diagnosed with CHD at just three months old. Despite undergoing surgery and defying the odds to live for nearly three years, she tragically passed away due to complications from a second surgery. In the wake of this devastating loss, her father, Farhan Ahmad, transformed his grief into a mission that would change the lives of children across Pakistan.
In memory of his beloved daughter, Farhan founded the Pakistan Children’s Heart Foundation (PCHF) in 2010, rallying friends, family, and the community together with the goal of ensuring no child with CHD in Pakistan goes untreated. His vision materialized into the creation of Pakistan’s first dedicated Children’s Heart Hospital & Research Institute, a state-of-the-art facility that stands as a testament to Ayesha’s legacy and a symbol of hope for the future.
This hospital, which opened its doors with the mission of providing specialized healthcare and research in pediatric cardiology, is the first of its kind in the country. With its world-class facilities and commitment to serving children from all walks of life, it offers not only medical care but also a promise that no child will face the same fate as Ayesha.
“The journey of founding this hospital began with the pain of losing Ayesha, but it has evolved into a beacon of hope for families across the nation,” said Farhan Ahmad, speaking to the press during the hospital’s inauguration. “It’s a dream come true, to ensure that no other parent will experience the helplessness we did.”
The hospital’s opening marks a milestone in Pakistan’s healthcare system, particularly in the field of pediatric cardiology. With a mission to save lives and improve access to heart disease treatment for children, the institute has already begun changing the landscape of pediatric care in Pakistan.
In addition to medical treatment, the hospital also focuses on research, hoping to improve the outcomes for children with CHD in the future. The impact of this initiative extends far beyond just providing care—it is helping to raise awareness about CHD and advocating for systemic healthcare improvements.
Ayesha’s story, though filled with pain, has touched the lives of many, serving as a reminder that even in the face of immense grief, the human spirit can transform tragedy into hope. Today, Ayesha’s legacy lives on in every child whose life is saved, in every family who finds solace in the care they receive, and in the community that continues to work together for a brighter future.
As Ayesha’s father, Farhan, aptly puts it: “This hospital is not just a building; it is Ayesha’s story etched into reality—a gift of life for generations to come, Insha’Allah.”
For more information about the Pakistan Children’s Heart Foundation and the Children’s Heart Hospital & Research Institute, visit https://pchf.org.pk/donate/
