Valentyna Khamaiko: I'm running for the dream of a future TV star

I will run at Wizz Air Kyiv City Marathon for the dream of 11-year-old Sofia Zhylina. Sofia wishes to be a TV presenter, a model and wear beautiful shoes instead of heavy orthopedic boots. However, on the way to her dream there is one obstacle: a rare disease – neurofibromatosis which struck her bones and nerves.

Valentyna Khamaiko - the Ukrainian TV presenter of the 1+1 channel:

For me the marathon participation experience is not the new one. I have several half-marathons, marathons in Ukraine and abroad behind me. In particular I and my husband both took part in large-scale Boston Marathon.
When confronted with these beautiful stories of talented kids who fate has brought difficult tests I have tears on my eyes appear. And you know what they extraordinarily courageous and very patient, so that you can only string yourself up to run for their lives. Sofia has a rare diagnosis that prevents her from making confident step towards the goal but she does not stop. She is surrounded by the support of caring people who will donate and run in the marathon for her. Join us, as literally every penny that can change the girl’s life is important "
Make it simple: donate here or run 2 km at Wizz Air Kyiv City Marathon on October 9. So you support the project "Fulfill a dream", which is implemented by the All-Ukrainian Charitable Foundation "Krona" and "1+1 media. The goal is to realize the most cherished wishes of children with severe, often - incurable diseases. Lidia Taran, a famous newscaster of the 1+1 channel, is mentoring the project.

Sofia Zhylina is from the Donetsk region. She and her mother were forced to leave their home because of war. When the girl was two years old, her right leg began to warp, and then it fractured. Since then Sophia underwent 30 operations! Despite the illness Sofia learned to play the piano, sing, paint, enrolled in children school of broadcasters and photographer's models.

I plan to raise 20 000 UAH to contribute to the cost of the diagnosis and surgery on the left (longer) leg. Doctors believe that such an operation can compensate for the load and prevent further distortion of the legs and torso. Totally about 15 000 euros is needed to clear obstacle to Sofia’s dream.