On 17 May 2022, the Tafida Raqeeb Foundation was officially introduced to the Italian public during a prestigious press conference held in the Italian Senate in Rome. The event was hosted by Senator Simone Pillon, Vice President of the Committee for Childhood and Youth, who warmly welcomed the founders, co-founders, and supporters of the Foundation. In his opening remarks, Senator Pillon emphasised the significance of the initiative, highlighting the urgent need for collective efforts to bring about real change in contemporary society and to ensure that every child is given a fair chance at life.

The press conference was attended by several distinguished guests, including Mr Claudio Lotito, President of the Lazio football team, Senator Toni Iwobi, Ms. Lorella Fontana, a Councillor from the city of Genoa, and Dr Paolo Petralia, the director of ASL 4 Liguria, Italy. Many other dignitaries, medical professionals, and supporters of the Foundation were also present to show their solidarity and commitment to the cause.

During the event, Tafida Raqeeb was honoured with a special bravery award from the Italian Senate in recognition of her resilience and the struggles she had endured. Additionally, her mother, Ms Shelina Begum, had the privilege of a private meeting with the President of the Italian Senate, Ms Elisabetta Casellati. In a heartfelt gesture, President Casellati presented Ms Begum with a special gift symbolising the Senate’s appreciation for her dedication and unwavering advocacy. She also bestowed upon Ms Begum the honorary title of “Ambassador for Life,” acknowledging her relentless efforts to fight for the rights of critically ill children and their families.

The speeches delivered throughout the conference underscored the fundamental mission of the Tafida Raqeeb Foundation, to act as a powerful voice for children, particularly those facing severe medical challenges, and to advocate for ethical values that should be the cornerstone of modern society. The speakers reinforced the belief that children represent the future, and it is the moral duty of society to protect, support, and care for them with compassion and dignity.

Senator Pillon took the opportunity to highlight Italy’s compassionate and humanitarian approach towards Tafida Raqeeb’s case. He commended the medical professionals at Gaslini Paediatric Hospital in Genoa, who responded immediately and offered to treat Tafida when UK doctors had recommended the withdrawal of care. Their willingness to provide ongoing medical support exemplified Italy’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of life and prioritising patient care over bureaucratic decisions.

Dr Paolo Petralia, the director of ASL 4 Liguria, added a crucial perspective, acknowledging that while not every child in such a condition may have a chance of full recovery, there is always a way to care for them with dignity and humanity. His words reinforced the importance of providing long-term neurorehabilitation and palliative care for children with severe brain injuries, rather than simply discontinuing treatment.

The Foundation’s initiative aims to fill a significant gap in the UK’s healthcare system by ensuring that families facing similar circumstances to Tafida’s will have access to the necessary resources and medical expertise. The speakers collectively stressed that no child should be denied the right to treatment and care based on perceived medical futility. Instead, society must strive to create a framework where families have options and where ethical medical practices prioritise the patient’s well-being above all else.

The presentation of the Tafida Raqeeb Foundation in the Italian Senate marked a crucial step in its mission to raise awareness and rally support for its cause. The event underscored the urgency of standing together as a society to advocate for the rights of vulnerable children, promote ethical medical practices, and foster a culture of compassion and care.

As the conference concluded, it was evident that the Foundation’s message had resonated deeply with those in attendance. The presence of influential policymakers, medical professionals, and community leaders signified a collective commitment to making a difference in the lives of children who require medical intervention and support. The Tafida Raqeeb Foundation continues to serve as a beacon of hope, striving to ensure that no child is denied the chance to live with dignity, care, and love.