Step by step: Nastia's rehabilitation journey from the National Cancer Institute

«She won't calm down until she builds the LEGO,» Nastia's mom smiles. 

She proved to be just as persistent when she began her path to rehabilitation.

Nastya is 12 years old. She has moved on to the seventh grade. Also, according to her mom, Nastya is a true optimist: she loves adventures, is always ready for something new, and never loses faith!

Last autumn everything changed. Because of constant pain in the arm, the family turned to doctors. After numerous examinations and a biopsy, the diagnosis was made: osteosarcoma.

In April, Nastia underwent surgery to remove the upper bone of her right arm. She is currently undergoing a postoperative course of chemotherapy at the National Cancer Institute.

After the surgery, it was not easy. Her arm hurt for a long time, two fingers barely moved, and she couldn't fully straighten it. That was when Nastia began sessions with physical therapists of the Zaporuka Foundation.

First, they worked together to restore mobility to the arm: they exercised the joints, restored finger movements, and increased the load step by step. Today, Nastia can already hold light objects in her hand and, during sessions, even straightens her arm with a small weight. In addition, physical therapists are working on her gait, helping her body recover after surgery and treatment.

The greatest joy for Nastia was the moment when she was first able to pick something up on her own. It might seem like a small movement. But it is precisely with such small movements that great victories begin.

Rehabilitation is ongoing. The path to recovery consists of small steps, and each of them brings Nastia closer to her dream of living an active life and one day working as a dog trainer.

Friends, support the little patients cared for by the Zaporuka Foundation!