Oleksandra grew up as a healthy, active, and smiling girl. Neither she nor her parents ever suspected that there could be anything wrong with her heart. Everything changed quite by chance—during a routine medical examination required for further studies.

The cardiologist quietly said there was a suspicion of a congenital heart defect—partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection. These words came as a real shock. Oleksandra was already 16 and had no symptoms at all, so what they heard frightened her parents to tears. However, they acted quickly: the very next day the family was already on their way to the Amosov Institute.

There, the diagnosis was confirmed and a surgery date was scheduled.

The procedure lasted more than four hours—four endless hours for the parents, who could not find peace while waiting for news about their only daughter.

When Oleksandra regained consciousness in intensive care, her mother and father were by her side. Her father had been specially released from the front line so that he could see his daughter after the surgery. Her first word, quiet yet filled with strength, was “Thank you.”

On April 9, 2025, on her 17th birthday, she gave thanks for life, for the chance she had been given, and for having her loved ones by her side.

Oleksandra’s family expresses their deep gratitude to the Lancôme brand for supporting them during the most difficult period. Thanks to this assistance, it was possible to provide all the necessary medications and treatment materials—this became a true gift for the girl.

This support was provided within the framework of the “Big Little Heart” project for St. Nicholas Day in 2024—a project that gives children not just help, but hope.