For most children, childhood is filled with play, laughter, and carefree moments. However, for little Iwanek, life has been a constant battle for survival. While other kids enjoy the playground, he struggles for every heartbeat and breath, reliant on medication, strict routines, and ongoing medical oversight.
“My son doesn’t have the childhood his peers can enjoy,” his mother says softly. “But I still believe one day, he will.”
A Fight That Started at Birth
From the day Ivan was born, his family’s life has been centered around hospitals. He was diagnosed with severe kidney disease, and although medication provided temporary relief, his health quickly declined.
Then came another tragedy — the outbreak of war. With the situation becoming dire, doctors delivered a heartbreaking message: “If you don’t leave, your son will die.”
Thus, the family packed their belongings and fled to Warsaw, in search of safety and medical assistance. There, Ivan was placed on a waiting list for a kidney transplant — his only hope for survival.
Two and a Half Years of Dialysis
While waiting for a suitable donor, Ivan endured two and a half years of dialysis — a grueling and painful process that robbed him of a typical childhood.
“He spent hours each week connected to machines,” his mother explains. “He was so small, yet he had to endure so much.”
Each session left him weak and pale, but his bright eyes and gentle smile never disappeared. Ivan’s parents held onto hope, praying for a miracle.
Finally, on December 30th, the long-awaited call arrived. A matching kidney was found.
“We couldn’t believe it,” his father recalls. “We cried tears of relief and fear. The next day, on December 31st — the last day of the year — our son received his new kidney.”
The Miracle of a New Beginning
The initial days post-surgery were critical. Ivan’s tiny body struggled to adapt — he was pale, fatigued, and barely responsive. His blood tests showed concerning results, and his parents feared the worst.
“Those two days felt like an eternity,” his mother remembers. “We kept praying that his body wouldn’t reject the kidney.”
Then, on the third day, a miracle occurred — Ivan began to play with his toys again.
“It was the most beautiful sight,” she says through tears. “To see him smile again, even for a moment — that’s when I knew we had hope.”
A Fragile Victory
Although the transplant saved Ivan’s life, the fight is far from over. The new kidney remains delicate, and even a minor infection or missed medication could lead to rejection.
Now, each day is a careful balancing act. Ivan adheres to a strict treatment regimen — taking medications at specific times, following precise meal plans, managing fluid intake, and attending regular hospital appointments. He cannot play outside with other children, cannot run, and cannot take risks.
“Every day we live in fear,” his mother confesses. “One mistake could undo everything we fought for.”
Some of Ivan’s medications are subsidized, but many are not. The family must cover most prescription costs out of pocket. Additionally, they recently relocated closer to a medical facility, significantly increasing their living and travel expenses.
“Every trip to the hospital costs money — transportation, tests, medications. But we can’t skip a single visit. His life depends on it.”
A Mother’s Plea for Help
For Ivan’s parents, life now revolves around one goal: keeping their son alive. However, love alone cannot cover the endless costs of care.
“We’ve reorganized our entire lives for Ivan,” his mother states. “Every decision, every penny, goes toward his treatment. But it’s not enough anymore.”
The financial burden is immense, and the emotional strain is even greater. Yet, the family refuses to give up — because surrendering is not an option.
“He’s my child,” she whispers. “I’ll do anything for him. But I can’t do it alone. Please, help me.”
Hope for the Future
Ivan’s story is one of quiet bravery — a little boy who has faced more pain than most adults ever will, yet still finds joy in life. His new kidney has provided him with a chance — not a guarantee, but a chance — at a brighter future.
Now, that future relies on ongoing support: medication, follow-up care, safe living conditions, and the stability every recovering child needs.
💙 Please help Ivan live.
Every donation, every act of kindness, brings him closer to health, laughter, and the childhood he deserves.
“He’s my miracle,” his mother says softly. “Please help us ensure that miracle lasts.”
