Ivanko was born in the winter of 2017. The healthy pregnancy and uncomplicated birth were a great start. But Ivanko's future turned out not to be that bright after all.
Up to 1 year old, he was developing typically. He was growing, playing, and communicating like other children. He learned around ten words and used them. But there also were warning signs – Ivanko did not smile back and had little interest in toys.
After he turned one, the child started regressing. He lost the ability to interact with objects and communicate with people. His physical condition also worsened. He started having painful stomach spasms, bloating, belching, and constant diarrhea, often requiring hospital visits. He developed chronic insomnia. Multiple tests showed numerous gastrointestinal tract diseases and nervous system disorders.
With the support of his loving family, Ivanko began medical treatment. The doctors gave a good prognosis since the family acted early on. And then Ivanko's mother heard the devastating news – her son was diagnosed with a severe form of autism, complicated with intellectual disability.
Since the correct diagnosis was made, rehabilitation tactics have changed – the focus has shifted from working on academic skills to developing self-care and communication skills.
Now, 5-year-old Ivanko is getting potty trained, working on the ability to dress/undress, wash his hands, hold a spoon to eat on his own, etc. With a psychologist and a speech therapist (and, of course, his wonderful mom), he works on understanding spoken language and practices sound imitation and sensory integration.
His mom wrote us: "I believe in my son; I believe that we will be able to socialize him, teach him independence within his capabilities. And I dream of giving him some trade skill, something simple but such that it allows him to realize himself and gives him a reason to develop."
Will you believe in Ivanko too? Can you help him with his basic needs and a course of therapy?
Maya's Hope helps disadvantaged children living in poverty and helps provide hope by instilling value and purpose in each child. www.mayashope.org