Special Olympics Kuwait Holds Fifth Healthy Families Forum
The Special Olympics Kuwait hosted its fifth Healthy Families Forum on Monday, bringing together key stakeholders in the support of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event, held at the Kuwait National Library, was attended by Sheikha Sheikha Al-Abdullah Al-Khalifa Al-Sabah, Chairperson of the Special Olympics Board of Directors; Hana Al-Zawawi, National Director; Rehab Bouresli; and several members of the Families Council and organizations focused on disability advocacy and support.
A central feature of the forum was a scientific lecture by Dr. Issa Al-Mashmoum, a specialist in pediatric neurology and epilepsy, titled “The Importance of Brain Stimulation in Various Disabilities.” His talk explored innovative brain stimulation technologies, shedding light on their impact in supporting individuals facing concentration and attention challenges. He presented a review of modern devices, programs, and technological methods used to stimulate cognitive development and improve neurological function in people with various disabilities.
Rehab Bouresli told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the forum’s educational content “contribute[s] to enabling families to learn about innovative treatment methods for their children with intellectual and other disabilities.”
She also explained that the forum is part of a broader schedule of Olympic events for the 2025–2026 season, aimed at increasing awareness among families about specialized healthcare in key areas such as nutrition, physical fitness, mental health, and preventive medical care.
Bouresli emphasized the vital role families play in the success of these programs, stating that, “the cooperation and awareness of families represent the cornerstone of the success of these programs and of improving the quality of life for their children.” She further noted that the wider health initiative includes medical examinations, routine screenings, physical fitness initiatives, nutrition programs, mental health support services, training for healthcare providers, and collaborations with relevant institutions.
The forum served as a valuable platform for information exchange and community empowerment, marking another milestone in Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to inclusive healthcare and family involvement in the lives of individuals with special needs.
— Team V.DIR-EM-UAE
