The National Cancer Institute in Kyiv has seen an influx of patients after a Russian missile hit Ukraine's largest children's hospital, Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital. The attack forced the evacuation of dozens of young patients undergoing cancer treatment, leaving families in a difficult situation.
One mother, Oksana Halak, had brought her 2-year-old son Dmytro to Okhmatdyt for treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. During the attack, they were moved to a safer location within the hospital before being evacuated to the National Cancer Institute. Dmytro is now one of 31 patients adapting to a new hospital environment, with the number of children being treated for cancer doubling at the institute.
Efforts are underway to rebuild Okhmatdyt, with a national fundraising campaign raising over $7.3 million in just three days. The hospital's closure has led to overcrowding in other facilities, with many families facing uncertainty about continuing their children's treatment.
Despite the challenges, some parents like Yuliia Vasylenko have decided to keep their children in Kyiv for treatment. Her 11-year-old son Denys, diagnosed with multiple spinal cord tumors, experienced delays in his chemotherapy due to the attack. The stress and uncertainty have taken a toll on both patients and families, with the road to recovery expected to be long and challenging.
The resilience and determination of medical staff and families in the face of adversity are evident as they navigate the aftermath of the missile strike. The community's support and solidarity are crucial in providing care and hope for the young patients affected by this tragic event.
