Zeenat Bibi’s Courageous Battle Ends in Tragedy

Zeenat Bibi Muhammad Khalil's Story

Zeenat Bibi, a 13-year-old resident of Dera Ghazi Khan, had been suffering from shortness of breath, cyanosis, and episodes of chest pain. Her parents realized her deteriorating health at the age of five. They consulted a cardiologist and her parents have tirelessly sought the best medical care for her. After undergoing numerous diagnostic tests and evaluations, she was diagnosed with Transposition of Great Arteries (TGA), Ventricular Septal Defects (VSD), and Pulmonic Stenosis (PS). The cardiac surgeon recommended that Zeenat undergo the Rastelli procedure, an open-heart surgery. Her father was unable to pay for such an expensive procedure. Desperation turned into a flicker of hope when Zeenat’s father reached out to Transparent Hands for financial assistance.

The young girl was admitted to Ittefaq Hospital, Lahore, and her operation was performed by Dr. Asim on 16-07-2023. On the day of surgery, her parents barely contained their mix of emotions—a blend of anxiety, fear, and an overwhelming sense of anticipation. As they waited for news about their daughter, each second that passed felt like an eternity. Finally, the operation was complete, but as the hours turned into days, the relentless truth revealed itself. 

Despite the doctors’ meticulous efforts and the excellent care provided in the ICU for three days, her heart condition could not be restored. It was a devastating blow, affecting her parents with an unbearable pain that words could not express. They had fought with every ounce of strength they possessed, their hopes were shattered, and their dreams for their beloved daughter slipped away.

Tragically, Zeenat Bibi lost her life on 28-07-2023, succumbing to a sudden cardiopulmonary arrest. The weight of their grief was immeasurable as they mourned the loss of their precious daughter—a cherished soul whose absence would forever leave an irreplaceable void in their lives. A shining example of love and innocence, Zeenat Bibi will be missed dearly.