Nikol's struggle – for a better life

Five-year-old Nikol from Obukhivka can only see bright light and silhouettes. She loves music, rustling toys, and most of all – being close to her family. Nicole has microcephaly, spastic tetraplegia, and epilepsy. To maintain her health for six months, she needs medicine and food.

Nikol was born healthy. However, after three months, her parents noticed that she did not follow toys with her eyes. An ophthalmologist diagnosed partial optic nerve atrophy. Later, an MRI revealed microcephaly – a congenital brain development disorder.

Her parents immediately began fighting for their daughter’s health. At one year and four months, Nikol could only roll over. After three months of regular rehabilitation at the St.John’s Center, she learned to sit, and a year later – to stand. Every new skill is a real victory for her.

Nikol loves hugs, enjoys listening to music, and playing with toys rustling toys. She recognizes her loved ones by their voices, adores her older sister Ania and her one-year-old brother Artem. She tries to imitate her little brother’s sounds, attempts to climb onto the bed, and rolls toy cars.

However, Nikol cannot walk or speak. She sees only bright light and silhouettes and does not understand spoken language.

The war has worsened Nikol’s condition: epileptic seizures, insomnia and anxiety have appeared. Rehabilitation had to be stopped, as excessive brain stimulation triggers seizures. Her parents purchased the necessary equipment and now work with their daughter at home.

Nikol takes the anticonvulsant Lamictal daily, as well as sedatives Alora, Aminazin, and Sedobil-M. She regularly needs Legcolax and Microlax, and occasionally Panadol.

She is very selective with food and cannot chew, so her mother purees all meals. Every day Nikol eats one pack of Gerber milk cereal by Nestlé.

We need your support to provide Nicole with the necessary medication and food for six months. Let's support this wonderful girl and her family together!