Princess in Europe: Dignity VS Ukraine's Indifference

Our Princess in Europe and Ukraine’s Ruthless Indifference

It’s raining today. A real autumn rain. We are in a safe European country, and my daughter, Natali, is turning 14. This celebration is our annual triumph, proof that we are stronger than any pain, war, or indifference. Our primary mission is to preserve our child’s life and health, which is why we are here.

But do you know what the worst part is? We are physically safe, yet the shadows of the past haunt us even here. Just as you celebrate your child's victory, a "gift" arrives from the system: The Ukrainian state has canceled the disability social payments that Natali received due to birth trauma complications. This is not just a financial blow. It is an attempt to invalidate her struggle and our decision to evacuate.

Born Through Pain, Evacuated for Life

When Natali was born, my wife and I nurtured dreams. But they were overshadowed by the trauma caused by medical malpractice. Our girl was unable to walk for the first five years. This period became an ordeal that we overcame thanks to rehabilitation, faith, and tears of joy when she first sat up. Our dogs were always with us—Rex and my "little washcloth" Lapa—adding warmth during moments of struggle.

These years forged a unique trait in Natali: the ability to find joy in every single day. "She takes everything life offers," I say. "Her joy is infectious."

With the start of the full-scale war, the choice was clear: Natali's safety above all. We evacuated her so she could continue her rehabilitation without constant fear, to preserve her health. It was the only right decision.

The Philosophy of the Kyiv Cake Abroad

Today, on her 14th birthday, Natali continues to demonstrate this vitality. We gave her jewelry—she is a true jewel to us.

Despite the rain, I went in my wheelchair to search for a Kyiv Cake. It is our family symbol of comfort and resilience. I know that when she returns from school and sees that cake, everything will be right. It is our way of saying: "We are stronger than any circumstances, even here, far from home."

On Saturday, she will celebrate with her friends at a pizzeria. This is her right to a normal teenage life that we fought for, and which, as a child with a disability, is especially necessary for her socialization.

A Systemic Blow: Ukraine is Ruthless to Our Children

The challenge arrives precisely on the day we celebrate. Ukraine’s decision to cancel the assistance vital for her rehabilitation. This decision proves one thing: Ukraine is currently ruthless toward disabled children who were forced to evacuate in order to survive.

"It’s like saying her struggle is worthless!" I exclaim indignantly. "First, we were harmed by a doctor’s mistake, then by the war, and now by the indifference of a bureaucracy that ignores our sole priority: preserving our child's life. They are telling us that her pain no longer exists on paper because we chose safety."

This decision is a betrayal. It ignores that Natali's daily fight for a fulfilling life continues. The cancellation of payments questions her dignity and directly hinders our ability to provide her with the necessary treatment abroad.

Conclusion: A Spirit That Cannot Be Canceled

Despite everything, my "Princess" remains a symbol of resilience. Her joy from a slice of Kyiv Cake, her laughter with friends—this is a challenge to all who try to diminish her dignity.

"They can cancel the payments, but they cannot cancel her spirit," I tell myself. "Her happiness is something to be envied."

This story is not just about our family, but about thousands of others who, in saving their children, face similar injustice from the state machine. We prove that true strength is not only physical ability but the capacity to rejoice in life despite everything.

Happy Birthday, my Princess. We won once, and we will win again.