When we first discovered we were expecting a child, our hearts brimmed with joy and anticipation for the future. We were eager to embrace our little one in a world filled with love. However, during the second trimester, our joy was abruptly interrupted. The test results revealed that I had contracted a toxoplasmosis infection, turning our world upside down.
I was prescribed antibiotics for the remainder of my pregnancy, clinging to hope that my daughter would not bear the consequences. Ultrasound scans indicated that Natalka was developing normally, and we held onto the belief that she would be healthy. Upon her birth, she achieved a perfect score of 10 on the Apgar scale, a moment of relief we had longed for. Yet, as we prepared to leave the hospital, fate dealt us a cruel blow. A routine check-up uncovered dilated ventricles in her brain. Doctors promptly initiated tests for congenital toxoplasmosis, and a lumbar puncture, along with an eye examination, confirmed the heartbreaking diagnosis.
In that moment, our hearts shattered. We were uncertain of what lay ahead for our tiny 3-kilogram baby. The illness had already inflicted lasting damage: hydrocephalus, epilepsy, heightened muscle tone, quadriplegia, and bilateral retinitis. Our once healthy newborn was now in a battle for her life. The initial six months were spent in the hospital, undergoing countless painful tests, blood draws, and treatments. Her delicate veins struggled with the constant intravenous fluids, necessitating multiple blood transfusions and six critical surgeries.
Despite the suffering she had already endured, this was merely the beginning of Natalka’s arduous journey. She has been a fighter from day one, and as her parents, we are committed to providing her with the care she requires. Now, at 3.5 years old, Natalka still cannot sit or walk independently. She depends on a specialized seat, a stroller, a car seat, an active stroller, a standing frame, and foot braces for basic mobility. Although she comprehends her surroundings, she can only articulate a few syllables. To communicate her needs, she utilizes alternative communication methods, which are crucial for her development.
The path ahead is long and fraught with challenges. Natalka faces vision issues that necessitate ongoing therapy. She also participates in intensive rehabilitation several times a year, including Vojta and Bobath therapy, manual phonics training, speech therapy, and consultations with neurologists. She benefits from dog and music therapy and attends a specialized preschool where she is cared for by leading specialists. At home, we continue her exercises daily to provide her with the best possible chance for growth.
Every effort we make significantly impacts Natalka’s health and progress. However, the journey to independence for our daughter demands even more. To enhance her functionality and provide her with a degree of independence, we need to acquire a new specialized active wheelchair. The one she currently uses has become too small and inadequate for her needs. Additionally, the ongoing expenses for private therapy and rehabilitation programs far exceed our financial means.
It has been a challenging journey, but we are resolute in giving our little princess the best opportunity to grow and develop. We believe that with your support, Natalka can continue her fight, and we can equip her with the necessary tools for a better life. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference for our daughter.
We are immensely grateful for the assistance we have received, and we cannot express our thanks enough for your kindness and generosity. Your support means everything to us and instills hope for a brighter future for Natalka. With your help, we can ensure she has the resources and care necessary to reach her full potential, even as the road ahead remains challenging.
Thank you from the depths of our hearts for standing by us and supporting our little warrior’s journey. Together, we can help Natalka take the next steps toward independence and a future filled with possibilities.
