Basic Medical Expenses for Ukrainian Children

From Silence to Sound

Mykhailo was born a healthy, curious, and cheerful little boy. His smile lit up every room, and his eyes sparkled with the joy of discovery. But after a severe flu complication, something changed — his hearing began to fade. By the time he turned one, doctors confirmed a heartbreaking diagnosis: bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, Grade 4.

At the age of three, he was enrolled in a specialized school for children with hearing impairments in Kamianske, Zaporizhzhia region. There, Mykhailo began to flourish. He made progress in speech and learning, supported by hearing aids provided by the school.

But in 2022, war shattered that stability.

The school was completely destroyed by shelling, and Mykhailo’s father — a devoted and courageous man — volunteered to join Ukraine’s Armed Forces. In December 2022, he tragically passed away. The family not only lost a father and husband, but the foundation of their emotional and financial support.

His mother now raises three children on her own in Marhanets — a town near the frontline — struggling to rebuild a sense of normal life.

Three Years Without Sound

Without access to a hearing aid, Mykhailo was again surrounded by silence. For three years, he lived without the ability to hear — cut off from communication, education, and connection.

His mother recalls:

“He couldn’t fully participate in learning or talk to others. It was heartbreaking to watch him withdraw, especially after all the progress he had made.”

Due to financial constraints, buying a hearing aid was out of reach for the family. But then, thanks to your generous support, everything changed.

Thanks to You, He Can Hear Again

With funding from GlobalGiving donors, the Children of Heroes Foundation was able to purchase and deliver a high-quality hearing aid for Mykhailo.

“The moment he heard his own voice again, we cried. It was a moment of hope and light. He smiled and said ‘Mama’ again and again. That’s when I knew—he’s back in the world,” — shares his mother.

Now, Mykhailo is engaged in learning once more. His speech is developing, he plays with his siblings, and he's gaining the confidence every child deserves.

Why This Support Matters

Every story like Mykhailo’s is a testament to the importance of your donations. For children who have lost parents, who live near active war zones, or who face developmental challenges, your help is life-changing.

Thanks to your contribution:

• Mykhailo can access education again.

• His emotional well-being is improving.

• His family has hope.

Thank You for Giving Mykhailo His Voice Back

On behalf of Mykhailo, his family, and the entire Children of Heroes team — thank you for restoring sound, connection, and joy to this child’s life.

Together, we are building a better future for the children who carry the weight of war but hold within them the potential to rebuild peace.