On February 9, 2021, the Thalassemia Society welcomed CGDS Deputy Director Dr. Lynn Rose and MENA Liaison Ms. Tara Burhan. Mr. Kochar Kareem, the society’s director, gave us an overview of the disease and about how the organization deals with the disease. A genetic blood disorder that usually triggers additional impairments, thalassemia is especially prevalent in the Middle East; this organization has 1,300 members in the Sulaimani-Chamchamal-Kirkuk area, and hopes to be able to expand its reach. The organization’s main effort is advocacy through education, though its members also work to coordinate the financial, medical, and psychological needs of the affected population. We talked about the stigma around this and all disabilities, especially as it interferes with attaining an education and a decent way of life. Also present were Thalassemia Society members Mr. Twana Abdulrahman, Mr. Danar Mustafa, Mr. Dlawar Abu Bakir, Mr. Dhia Rahim, and Ms. Sargul Hama Salih. We thank Mr. Kochar and his team for their hospitality, and hope to work with the organization in an effort to build a more tolerant and supportive society.
Image description: Seven people—three women and four men—stand in a semicircle, facing the camera. One of the women wears hijab; one of the men wears glasses. Behind the people on the left are three flags. A large black marble wall is directly behind the group. The floor is flagstone in black, grey, and light orange.