Ivan was born into a large, loving family, where seven children grow up with care, support, and mutual concern. They are like one unit: if something happens to one, the whole family is immediately there. As one of the eldest brothers, Ivan always helps his parents with household chores and takes care of his younger siblings.

At school, he excels in his studies, especially enjoying mathematics and Ukrainian language — the subjects he performs best in.

Ivan and his parents discovered that he had a congenital heart defect by chance, during a routine medical check-up. Local doctors immediately referred him to the Amosov Institute. There, he underwent additional examinations to confirm the diagnosis and choose the best treatment plan.

Doctors determined that Ivan has Tetralogy of Fallot — a complex congenital heart defect characterized by the abnormal structure of several vital parts of the heart. As a result, his body receives less oxygen, and he may tire more quickly and experience shortness of breath.

After all the tests, a surgery date was set for Ivan.

For four hours, the family waited outside the operating room — anxious, praying, pacing the corridor, holding on to each other.

When Ivan was finally moved to the ward and opened his eyes, his entire family was there. The room filled with laughter, tears of joy, and warm hugs — joy that their little Ivan had overcome everything.

It was in that moment that Ivan made a firm decision: he wants to become a cardiac surgeon. He wants to save hearts — just like the doctors saved his.

This surgery was made possible thanks to Lancôme, who supported the family during the most challenging period. With their help, all necessary medications and materials for treatment were provided.

This support was given as part of the “Big Little Heart” project for St. Nicholas Day 2024 — a project that gives children not just medical assistance, but genuine hope for life and the future.