In Ukraine, parents of children with special needs are encouraged to hand their children over to state care. They are told their children are a burden on society. Children are sent to institutions where they are subjected to abuse and neglect. There is minimal support available to parents who fight to keep their children with them. Maya's Hope wants to help relieve some of the burden on these amazing parents and assist in keeping children with their families, where they belong.
"You should leave her at the hospital, she is going to be a vegetable."
This is what doctors told Polina's parents, shortly after her birth. But her parents refused. They have been fighting for their daughter since day one.
Polina was born a little ahead of schedule. As a result of lack of oxygen, her brain was badly damaged. She was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
At the moment she is not sitting independently, not walking and not yet talking. Due to epilepsy, Polina cannot develop as she constantly has seizures. Now doctors have managed to reduce them with strong drugs.
But these medicines are expensive and her family need help with her other needs - formula and diapers.
We are raising funds to purchase formula and diapers for Polina for the next 3 months. Can you help?
Maya’s Hope helps disadvantaged children living in poverty and helps provide hope by instilling value and purpose in each child. We are celebrating 10 years of bringing hope to children around the world.