Stepan strives to live a normal teenager's life

Stepan is 12 years old and is learning to play the guitar – music helps him not to give up. His cat has become a true source of support in the hardest moments. Before his illness, he was an active and cheerful boy. A year ago, everything changed very quickly: his mother suddenly began noticing rapid weight loss and weakness in her son. Stepan was feeling unwell at school. After an examination, the family heard a diagnosis that divided life into "before" and "after" – type 1 diabetes.

No one in the family had ever had diabetes. It was a powerful blow for everyone. In the space of a single day, they had to learn to live with a disease that stays forever.

Today Stiopa's life means daily monitoring: insulin, carbohydrate counting, constant blood sugar measurements, and corrections day and night. Stepan uses continuous glucose monitoring sensors, which help detect dangerous drops or spikes in blood sugar in time. But they are expensive and require constant replacement.

In addition to insulin, the boy takes supportive medications every day. Monthly costs for sensors and medications alone amount to around 8,000 hryvnias, not counting the special diet. Due to frequent blood sugar drops, stress, and health risks, the boy was forced to switch to online learning.

His mother raises and provides for both Stepan and her older son – a university student – entirely on her own. Life under wartime conditions adds to the difficulties. Constant air raid alerts bring even more fear. Insulin must be kept refrigerated, so during prolonged power outages his mother worries each time that it might spoil. She is constantly forced to think about maintaining a supply of medications and sensors for her younger son, as any disruption could pose a serious threat to the child's health.

Stiopa has been living with diabetes for a year now. Every day he and his mother learn, monitor, and fight together. But managing such a financial burden on her own is very difficult for his mother.

We sincerely ask for help for Stepan with sensors. Your contribution will ensure stable diabetes management and help preserve this boy's health.