How a Mother’s Hope Works Wonders: Vitalii’s Story

A smooth and peaceful pregnancy, a successful birth — the mother named her little son Vitalii, and joyfully embraced all the responsibilities and magical moments of early motherhood. His life was full of happiness and light. Until the age of three and a half, nothing signaled trouble: Vitalii was active, cheerful, and healthy, just like other children his age. He loved running, playing, and sharing his bright smile with everyone.

But one day, the family’s happy life turned upside down. During a routine medical check-up, right before Vitalii was to start preschool, the doctor shared alarming news: heart murmurs were detected. Concerned but determined, his young mother quickly took him to the central city hospital. At that time, doctors from the National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery named after Mykola Amosov happened to be visiting.

After a thorough examination, the diagnosis was confirmed: an atrial septal defect (ASD). The doctors stressed that surgery was urgently needed — Vitalii’s life depended on it.

Just a week later, Vitalii and his mother traveled to Kyiv. Another round of diagnostics and a complex heart operation awaited them. Those days were filled with anxiety, but hope continued to burn brightly in his mother’s heart. On the day of the surgery, time seemed to stand still. For four long hours, the doctors performed atrial septal reconstruction — fighting to ensure Vitalii’s little heart could beat strongly and steadily. In the end, the surgery was a success, and doctors informed the mother that her son was now on the path to recovery.

Vitalii quickly began to heal. The doctors gave clear instructions: follow-up check-ups every six months and careful monitoring of his health. But most importantly — Vitalii returned to the joys of childhood. He ran, laughed, and played with his beloved toy cars once again.

Now, when Vitalii returns home from kindergarten, he always checks on his “garage” — counting and organizing his car collection. His dream is to have his own car dealership, filled with different models that he can count and upgrade.

This story is not only about challenges and hardship — it’s about faith, care, and the power of a mother’s love. And it’s also about the kind-hearted people who stand ready to help: the doctors who save lives, and the benefactors who provide crucial support. Thanks to the light and compassion of those who united for one cause, little Vitalii was given a chance to live a full and happy life.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Lancôme as part of the "Big Little Heart" project for St. Nicholas Day 2023.
Because even the smallest hearts deserve the strongest support.