We are Tomasz and Miriam Chmiel and we would like to help our good friends (a family of three) who, like us, work as missionaries in Ukraine. We have more in common than that, though. Just like us, they too faced some unexpected and unplanned things even before they started their mission. When they moved to Ukraine, they had plans and dreams about how they would serve God, help people, and raise their children in a multilingual environment. It never occurred to them that a huge challenge would await them in a new country and a new culture—caring for a child with autism.
Who will we help?
Their son Natanko, a 4-year-old cheerful boy with a beautiful, contagious smile. Natanko has been developing differently from his peers since early childhood. He was diagnosed with childhood autism at a young age. Doctors predicted that the diagnosis was so severe that Natanko would never speak. However, his parents refused to accept this and, in addition to regular prayers, they began to educate themselves about autism, work with Natanko at home, and attend various (mainly behavioral) therapies. As a result, Natanko started to say his first words, but he still can only express a few of his needs and does not understand even simple phrases. Because of this, he is often frustrated and very difficult to calm down. In addition, he is still in diapers and has motor-skill issues. Despite this, Natanko shows a great effort to learn new things but he needs help. He needs an impulse that will help „kick-start his brain“ properly. This impulse could be ABM therapy.
What will the money from this campaign be used for?
The money will be used to pay for a 10-day intensive ABM therapy, which is based on the theory of brain neuroplasticity. The therapy will take place reasonably close to the city where Natanko and his family currently live, which is very unique since typically this kind of therapy requires traveling outside of Europe. This is a great opportunity for Natanko to make progress. However, this therapy is quite expensive. It costs a total of €1500 (excluding travel and accommodation expenses). The family currently does not have the means to pay for it from their own resources, so we are asking for your help to make sure that this opportunity for Natanko is not missed due to a lack of funds.
If more funds are raised, they will be used to cover travel and accommodation costs.
Thank you so very much! Every bit of help counts!