SupportRepresentatives of the NGO “All-Ukrainian Association “Patriot”” visited the pediatric department of the Kyiv City Oncology Center to deliver gifts and give children a day of joy, offering a brief escape from their fight against illness.
This initiative was made possible thanks to our friend and volunteer from the United States, Anna Bietina, who provided the gifts with special care for Ukrainian children. The team from the foundation “Pediatricians Against Cancer,” with whom we have long collaborated, helped organize the visit.
Earlier in 2023, our organization donated an ultrasound machine to the center, which, according to the foundation, continues to save lives and remains extremely valuable. This time, although the gifts were small, their impact was immense. “These are not trifles. This is a day when children smile. They get a break from the pain, from chemotherapy. This is a real celebration for them,” noted Yuliya from the foundation.
During the visit, the team met little Nastya, who had just completed chemotherapy. Her genuine smile upon receiving a soft toy lit up the entire ward, reminding everyone of the power of hope and childhood joy. In the playroom, children received a large box of markers and other gifts, sparking genuine surprise and delight.
Leaving the center, we felt a mix of emotions. These children fight their own war with cancer every day, in the midst of another, larger war. We cannot heal them, but we can be present. We can come, listen, and bring light—even if only for a day.
