The «Zaporuka» Foundation has opened an occupational therapy space in Dnipro where children learn to live again after injuries and illnesses

The Zaporuka Charitable Foundation has created a space at the Regional Medical Center of Family Health where children, after injuries, surgeries, and complex illnesses, gradually return to their normal lives.

Children who just yesterday could not hold objects due to injuries and illnesses are today learning to use cutlery, get dressed, take care of themselves, and perform daily household chores.

 «I see this every day. Here, patients don't just do exercises—they learn how to live again. They learn to cook, take care of themselves, and be independent. And at some point, you see not a patient, but a person who believes in themselves again., — says Olena, the Center's occupational therapist.

One of the key elements of the space has become ergonomic kitchen — an adapted zone where children, together with their parents, master basic daily living skills.

«It was difficult for me at first. But later it got easier. I liked working in the kitchen the most. I cut fruit for the first time and even ironed clothes. Before that, I only saw how others do it,» - A young patient shares his impressions after the session.

Thanks to the contribution of friends from the IT company, we directed 1,500,000 hryvnias — from renovation to modern ergonomic equipment.

The space is divided into zones: a social and domestic area, a relaxation zone, and a workspace for a specialist. Everything is arranged to train everyday skills. There are adapted kitchen appliances, furniture, equipment, and utensils. There is also a corner where one can master or restore skills in dressing, bed-making, and ironing. Lighting and tactile equipment help relieve emotional tension and create a sense of security.

This is not the foundation's first update in this medical facility. Earlier, Zaporuka updated the physical and rehabilitation medicine department, equipped a physical therapy room, and set up a psychological support space for teenagers. And soon, the «Dacha» Family Home by the foundation will open in Dnipro, where families of seriously ill children will be able to live together during treatment at the Center.

«We are convinced that even during war, a child has the right to proper treatment and quality rehabilitation. Our task is to ensure that children have a chance not just to recover, but to reclaim their lives., — says Nataliia Onipko, founder and chair of the board of the Zaporuka foundation.

At the Regional Medical Center of Family Health they receive hundreds of patients every day from all frontline regions of Ukraine. Last year alone, more than 1,200 children and adults underwent rehabilitation here, and this need is only growing.