02 September 2008
BEIRUT: Khouloud, an 8-year old battling life-threatening cancer, was given her "dream wedding" on Sunday by Tamanna Lebanon, a non-profit association that grants the wishes of children with chronic illnesses. Established in 2005, Tamanna helps children between the ages of 3 and 18 realize their dreams. The foundation exists to provide joy, strength and hope to Lebanon's critically ill children, granting their fondest wishes, regardless of nationality, religion, and socioeconomic or cultural background.
More than 100 family members and friends of Khouloud and her young "bridegroom," Karim, 12, attended the playful two-hour ceremony at the Dunes New Ballroom in Beirut. Khouloud and Karim met at the hospital where they receive medical treatment for cancer.
Khouloud was wearing a pink wedding dress designed for her by the international fashion designer Zuhair Mrad.
Khouloud and Karim arrived at the ceremony in a convertible and Star Academy 5 contestant Saad Ramadan regaled them with songs before leaving the stage for the High School Musical group.
Amid the applause of those in attendance, Khouloud cut a big white cake before inviting her guests to the buffet.
Tamanna currently grants an average of three wishes a week. Wishes vary from having a particular toy or meeting a celebrity to traveling abroad or simulating a certain career or event (like a wedding) the child hopes for in the future. To date, the association says it has granted the wishes of more than 300 children. - The Daily Star
Copyright The Daily Star 2008.
