ShareKUWAIT: In hope of bringing joy to the children and easing their suffering at Bayt Abdullah Hospital, the US Embassy has partnered with the Air Forces Central Band (AFCENT) for a special musical performance. US Ambassador to Kuwait, Karen Hideko Sasahara, said, “This performance provides the children with a chance to temporarily escape their challenges and experience something uplifting. Every child deserves a bit of joy, and we hope this event brings that to them tonight.”
Regarding US-Kuwait relations, Ambassador Sasahara noted that her role extends beyond just diplomacy and policy. She said, “I am here as a guest in Kuwait. I want to be a good guest and learn about the country.” She expressed her eagerness to see, hear, and meet people to understand what’s happening locally. “Being here tonight is both a privilege and an honor, and it’s a new part of Kuwait that I am witnessing,” the ambassador added.
She highlighted that the relationship between the United States and Kuwait spans many decades. While some may view it as merely a result of the liberation 34 years ago, she noted that the bond is much deeper. “Our ties go beyond that,” she said, pointing out that five generations of Kuwaiti students have studied in the US. She further explained that the connection includes cultural, financial, and commercial aspects.
“Kuwaitis who have spent time in the United States often bring valuable experiences back with them. I believe Kuwait has shown its commitment to the United States, and I feel we also have a commitment to uphold towards Kuwait,” she said. Dr Tala Al-Dabbous, CEO and Director of Clinical Services at Catch and Bayt Abdullah, expressed her happiness with the presence of the American “AFCENT” musical group at Bayt Abdullah Hospital. “Our top priority is to entertain our children, just as any parent seeks happiness for their kids. These children are like our own,” she said.
At KACCH and BACCH Catch, she affirmed their preference for using the term ‘children’ over ‘patient.’ “Today, the ‘AFCENT’ team is here to bring joy and help these kids feel like they’re living a normal life. Bayt Abdullah was designed to bring all essential services and support into one place,” Dabbous added.
Chip Cothran, AFCENT Band Manager, noted that the band serves as musical ambassadors of the United States, travelling across the region and connecting with diverse audiences through the universal language of music. He described their recent performance at Bayt Abdullah Children’s Hospice as a privilege, highlighting the joy it brought to the children, their families, and the staff. “It was an honor to have the opportunity to put a smile on their faces, rhythm in their feet, and joy in their hearts! We look forward to the next time we get to perform in Kuwait City,” he said.
