Vitaliy ended up in an adults section of a mental care home last year when he was just 14 years old. His ward mates are nearly 40. There is a carer but he performs more of an oversight rather than educational function. Whilst most 'capable' residents are able to help out in a field or a farm, young men like Vitaliy spend hours in a summerhouse in the warmer time of the year, and stay indoors in winter in a small room with green walls and a TV that is sometimes on.
Perhaps, some would be happy with that. But judging by the hope in his eyes when he approaches me, I know he is after something else. A bit more care than just being provided with food, bed and clothes. A bit more human contact - because sometimes he takes hold of stranger's hands and tries to plat women's long hair if they happen to be near.
For his dark complexion Vitaliy has a nickname of Gypsy. Because of this I was initially concerned whether he can be trusted, until I took him out for a walk.
It's true that he cannot talk, but he understands everything. Especially the difference between sitting in the summerhouse and the playground, where Vitaliy tried every single ride: swings, slides and merry-go-rounds.
To check how smart he is, I gave him a puzzle to do. He didn't struggle with it at all. Most probably, he can also be taught how to assemble puzzles, blocks and Lego. Perhaps, he can even master writing, drawing, and crafts. But he is in a group of people who don't get educated anymore. Even if he's under 18.
Vitaliy is a calm and unaggressive chap. He may well become a good helper around the house. Basically, he only has one problem now - he can't talk yet. Another two years of being surrounded by mentally ill patients without the future. He will simply exist for X number of years but he won't have a life. It's would be a shame as he could take care of other people and himself to a larger extent than he does now.
Living in a family is Vitaliy's only chance to have a fulfilled life. Even if he can't tell you about it, he would be truly grateful for love and support.
If you are interested in adopting Vitaliy, please read the memo to the potential adoptive parents, guardians, and foster parents; you can also contact Children’s Affairs' service of the Zaporozhia State Administration by telephone (061) 239-01-56.
Other children who dream of finding a family
If for some reason you are currently not able to adopt (for example, you are a student and do not have a family of your own yet) you are still able to help children at a boarding school (an orphanage with your financial support. Ways you can help include: planning and participating in excursions and trips for children; visiting a child in an orphanage; or helping purchase developmental toys, books, construction sets, and sports equipment.
