REHABILITATION COURSE FOR ARTEM KONDRATIEV

In August, we covered the cost of a rehabilitation course worth 27,135 UAH for Artem Kondratiev at the “Step by Step to the Goal” Center. However, due to a waiting list for treatment, Artem underwent the course only in November.

Date of Birth: February 26, 2010
Diagnosis: Autism

At birth, Artem suffered an injury that unfortunately impacted his development. By the age of three, he still hadn’t started speaking. Around the same time, Artem’s mother noticed that his behavior differed from that of other children. He would make unusual vocal sounds, flap his hands, and cover his ears in loud environments. Concerned, Tetiana (Artem’s mother) consulted a pediatric neurologist at the regional hospital in Kherson. Artem was initially diagnosed with “delayed mental and speech development” and prescribed treatment.

Unfortunately, the treatment did not yield results. As time passed, Artem’s behavior continued to change. After further consultations at a psychiatric hospital, he was diagnosed with “early childhood autism.” Following this, Artem began attending a rehabilitation center for children with disabilities.

“When the full-scale war began, Artem was in the 5th grade. Our hometown, Kakhovka, was occupied from the first days of the invasion,” Tetiana shares. “Artem was deeply affected by the presence of military equipment, armed occupiers, and explosions in our city. As a result, we had to leave our home with just three suitcases containing everything from our past life and move to Ukraine-controlled territory.”

Now 14 years old, Artem excels academically, earning top marks. His favorite subjects are English and computer science. He is kind, gentle, and especially empathetic towards the feelings of other children. Artem is cheerful and positive, loves horses, swimming, and diving in the river. He enjoys creating things, building with Lego, and learning about the biographies of great individuals. He still believes in Saint Nicholas, but sadly, he doesn’t have friends.

“I want so much for him to find his place in life and be accepted by society. That’s why my son needs continuous rehabilitation and sessions with specialists who help him navigate his challenging path. As a single mother, I am unable to afford regular rehabilitation for Artem, so I sought assistance,” Tetiana explains.

Each rehabilitation course is incredibly important for Artem, bringing him closer to a fulfilling life and the realization of his dreams.

This assistance was made possible thanks to funds raised on the dobro.ua platform.