The struggle for every Alisa's breath

When critical moments came and Alisa was writhing and choking with convulsions, my fingers became cold whereas my heart was burning. This fire in my heart meant I would never let my baby go. Every time death stepped back and left my Alisa alive. Life is such a precious gift, especially for a sick child diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in Ukraine, where father is the only person who brings money home. Alisa’s treatment costs 28 413 UAH a month. Although my husband works day and night. And we aren't barely able to cover all expenses. If my daughter fails to take any of these medications – she'll die.

- Mommy, why don’t other children take so many pills?

- Because you are special…

- Why didn’t you give birth to a girl who wouldn’t have to stay in the hospital?

- We wanted you just the way you are. Otherwise it wouldn’t be you.

From the very beginning my husband and I decided not to shower ourselves with self-pity. Our tears won’t change anything but Alisa must be happy!

Despite our challenges Alisa is a smiling and bright girl. She attended a kindergarten and since the age of four dreamt about school. Last year her dream came true! She started to go to school and absorb knowledge like water. Even when she was again taken to the hospital, she took her books there. Whenever I see my daughter’s battle for life I have no place for feeling tired or despair.

However, it took time for me to find this strength. I used to be a typical representative of the weaker sex. I was never a superwoman and when I first heard my daughter’s diagnosis I thought my life ended. I was right in some way. I haven’t taught students for seven years, I never attend conferences or communicate with my colleagues. However, I teach death the lesson of life every single day.

There should be spent about 12 000 UAH in a month only for inhalation with "Pulmozym". I appeal to help us raise 67 100 UAH.to provide Alisa with 'Pulmozym" for six months of her life. People with such a diagnosis in Europe live up to 45 years. We hope we will have the same opportunity in Ukraine too one day. Present my daughter a chance for life, please!

Name: Alisa O. Onufrieva, born 20/07/2007

Location: Zaporizhzhia

Diagnosis: mucoviscidosis with pancreatic insufficiency, severe course