Maxim from Kakhovka needs rehabilitation

For two days under the scorching sun, Maksym’s family made their way through checkpoints to escape the occupation. After the stress they endured, Maksym stopped speaking and withdrew into himself. It seemed that the skills he had gained in his hometown of Kakhovka were lost. But after evacuating to Kamianske, his parents began rebuilding supportive world for their children.

Olha trained as a teaching assistant, and now they go to school together every day: her son studies in an inclusive classroom, and she supports him there. Maksym is in the 6th grade. He enjoys physical education and crafts, happily copies words from textbooks, and draws geometric shapes using a ruler. Maksym is also a helper at home: he vacuums and sweeps the floors, takes care of the dog.

For the second year now, he has been attending a music school, learning to play the piano. He memorizes simple melodies, plays with one finger on his right hand and two fingers on his left. His teacher tries different methods with him and recently bought handbells specifically for his lessons.

Maksym has progressive scoliosis; his weak muscles are overstrained, and deformities are developing in his feet and knees. Sometimes the pain is so severe that he cannot move. To compensate for the spinal curvature, Maksym wears a Chêneau brace and attends physical therapy.

After each rehabilitation course at the St. John’s Center, Maksym’s muscle tension decreases, his posture improves, and he begins to move more freely. The sessions also positively affect his cognitive abilities—new words appear in his speech.

The family has two children, and only one parent is able to work. They need our help to cover the cost of Maksym’s rehabilitation at the St. John’s Center. Let’s help Maksym live without pain and continue to develop actively!