Katya Samokhina

Five-year-old Katya lives in Lipetsk, a city in Central Russia. At the age of six months, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Her mother Maria was determined to improve her daughter’s prognosis. Under doctor’s supervision, she began Katya’s rehabilitation program, which included physiotherapy and medications. Unfortunately, another blow struck shortly after Katya’s first birthday: she started having seizures every day. Doctors tried many anti-epileptic drugs but none of them were effective. As the result of the seizures, Katya has severe motor and cognitive developmental delay. She cannot sit or stand unaided, and also has serious bowel problems.

Unfortunately, Katya’s father left when he learnt of severity of his daughter’s condition. He pays minimal child support for his two children (Katya has a younger brother) and doesn’t visit or help his family in any other way. Katya’s Mom Maria is very courageous and energetic, but financial situation of this family is so difficult that she is forced to ask for help.

Three appliances will make the life of this family much easier:

- A child wheelchair. Presently Maria can take Katya outside only in a baby stroller, which is absolutely unsuitable for a child of Katya’s age and condition.

- A standing frame. It is not only necessary for occupational therapy Katya needs but but will also help her avoid pulmonary congestion and pneumonias.

- A bathing appliance. Since Katya is no longer a small baby but still cannot sit in a tub without assistance, bathing her is difficult for Maria.

The total cost of these appliances with delivery costs included is a little above $5000. The parish of Maria’s church will try to raise at least part of this sum, but Lipetsk is not a rich city, and help from other people would be very welcome.

Elena, a volunteer from Lipetsk, is in regular contact with Katya’s family and also keeps us informed about their needs and Katya’s condition. Please, help Maria care for her dearly loved little girl!

News

March 15, 2010. With your help, we have raised enough money to purchase a wheelchair, a standing frame and a bathing appliance for Katya Samokhina. We will keep you updated on the girl's progress. Thank you for your generosity!