In a groundbreaking moment for Tajikistan’s healthcare system, the country inaugurated its first-ever children’s hospice, “Tasallo,” dedicated to providing palliative care for children with advanced-stage cancer.
The facility is housed within the Republican Scientific Oncology Center under the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population (MoHSPP), The Caspian Post reports via Tajik media.
The opening ceremony was attended by First Deputy Minister of Health Salomuddin Yusufi, Director of the Lona Charitable Foundation Jourakhon Bobokhonov, Oncology Center Director Akbar Murodzoda, and other prominent healthcare professionals.
A Vision of Compassion, Backed by Leadership
The hospice was established at the initiative of Ozoda Rahmon, Head of the President’s Executive Office and founder of the Lona Charitable Foundation, with full support from the Ministry of Health. Designed specifically for children diagnosed with stage IV cancer, “Tasallo” offers not only medical treatment but also comprehensive psychological, emotional, and spiritual support to patients and their families.
Setting a New Standard for End-of-Life Care
Oncology Center Director Akbar Murodzoda emphasized the hospice’s role in providing more than just medical care.
“Tasallo,” meaning ‘comfort’ or ‘consolation,’ is a sanctuary where children and their families can find peace and dignity in the most challenging times,” he said.
Equipped with modern medical technologies, the hospice caters to both inpatient and day-care patients. Services include pain relief, psychological counseling, and spiritual care, all delivered in a compassionate environment.
A Milestone in Tajikistan’s Palliative Care Development
The launch of “Tasallo” marks a significant advancement in Tajikistan’s palliative care infrastructure, bringing the country closer to international standards that emphasize human dignity and compassionate care.
Since its founding in 2009, the Lona Charitable Foundation has played a pivotal role in supporting children with cancer and severe burns, making the hospice a natural extension of its ongoing mission.
In many CIS countries, palliative care remains largely state-run, with few private hospices available. “Tasallo” represents a pioneering effort, providing specialized, holistic care tailored specifically for children-a critical and rare resource in the region.
More Than Medicine: A Message of Hope
With this new hospice, Tajikistan is taking a transformative step to offer not only medical relief but also emotional and spiritual support to families during their hardest moments.
The initiative highlights the nation’s commitment to building a healthcare system grounded in empathy, ensuring that every patient-regardless of age or illness-receives care with dignity, compassion, and humanity.
