Geneticists have delivered the first-ever gene therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), obtaining extraordinary results. SMA is a group of hereditary diseases that destroys motor neurons which are nerve cells in the brain stem and spinal cord, that control essential skeletal muscle activity such as speaking, walking, breathing, and swallowing, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. A two year old boy named Shavez was treated at AKUH. For his treatment, in addition to the drug cost, his family needed financial support to  cover other treatment costs. They received this from the Aga Khan University Hospital’s Welfare Programme. The hospital is committed to providing access to quality healthcare, and in 2020, supported over 850,000 patients. Shavez received free-of-cost care at AKUH, making it possible for him to get world-class quality care at no additional financial burden to his family.