A step towards Mariia’s dream

Mariia is just 16 years old. She is a cheerful, kind, and lively girl who, despite facing great challenges, never stops dreaming.

For many years now, Mariia has been battling a rare orphan genetic disorder – Hallervorden-Spatz disease. This is a severe, progressive disorder of the nervous system that gradually affects mobility, coordination, and muscle function. At the age of 9, the disease robbed her of her ability to walk, and her condition worsens with each passing year. Unfortunately, there is no complete cure for this condition, but through ongoing rehabilitation, its progression can be slowed, and the gains made can be maintained.

Yet Mariia’s greatest dream remains unchanged – to stand on her own two feet again and take her first independent steps.

Last year, the girl underwent two complex operations on her feet. It was a difficult journey, but it gave her hope. Following a course of rehabilitation at the Agape Centre, Mariia showed good results. The rehabilitation helps to slow the progression of the disease and preserve what has been achieved through immense effort.

However, to ensure these results are not lost, Mariia needs to undergo comprehensive rehabilitation every three months. Unfortunately, the cost of her treatment and rehabilitation amounts to 85,500 UAH, which is beyond the family’s means.

Today, we are appealing to everyone who cares.

Every hryvnia, every share, every kind word is a chance for Mariia to keep fighting, a chance to get closer to her biggest dream.

Let’s come together to give this little girl hope for movement, for new achievements, and for a future without pain.