Vera is one of few girls in the orphanage. She is also one of the most talented children in her group. One of those who draws, writes, and makes sculptures with modeling clay. One of those who does something to be seen.
In the institution where Vera lives both boys and girls have the same haircuts. It is very difficult to see the difference between boys and girls. The fact is that their clothes are also the same. But it is still easy to see the girls and realize that Vera is one of them as she is always trying to attract someone’s attention.
Vera can’t walk but she can crawl in the sitting position. So as soon as she sees a visitor, she crawls closer to him or her, waves her hand, and starts smiling. If the visitor greets her and talks back to her – that’s a luck. If not, she becomes frustrated. It is difficult to understand what she is saying, but it is easy to see her resentment.
If our names are given to us not just by our parents but heaven and our fate is destined, Vera (whose name in Russian means “faith”) is very lucky as she has already got faith in her life, and it is quite possible she will also have hope and love. Hope that once she will wear ponytails and bunches as other girls who live in families. Hope that she will have bright clothes and maybe even dresses – even if she won’t be able to crawl in them, she will be able to feel she’s a little princess, even sitting in her wheelchair.
Children living in the orphanage often call female visitors their moms. And even if Vera does not often talk or think about it, I want to believe that one day one of those “moms” will really call this girl her daughter.
I never liked playing with dolls, even when I was a little girl. I preferred wearing comfortable clothes instead of pink dresses and lacquer shoes. It was my own choice, so I very much hope that this girl will also have a chance to try all the ladies’ stuff and choose what suits her best. Maybe she will be fond of soccer with her brother or will experiment with make-up with her sister. Or maybe she will be just an ordinary child of her future parents.
If you are interested in adopting, 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.
