It was supposed to be a quiet, joyful Christmas, filled with the warmth of family, the sparkle of a tree, and the laughter of a little girl discovering holiday magic. But in early December, everything changed. Helenka, our precious daughter, began vomiting and became unusually listless. Her energy vanished, and the brightness in her eyes was replaced by fatigue and discomfort.
We sought medical attention immediately, visiting several doctors as her condition worsened. She no longer wanted to walk, refused food and drink, and slept almost constantly. Concerned and alarmed, the doctors referred us urgently to the Emergency Department of the Children’s Clinical Hospital. Every step of that journey was filled with fear and uncertainty, as we wondered what could be wrong with our little girl.
A head CT scan revealed devastating news. Helenka’s tiny head contained a large tumor, causing severe hydrocephalus—a dangerous buildup of fluid that was pressing on her brain. Our hearts shattered. The disease had invaded her life in a way we could never have imagined, threatening not only her health but the very essence of her childhood. The diagnosis was ependymoma, a malignant brain tumor that required immediate
neurosurgical intervention. The operation was life-saving, but it was just the beginning of a long, uncertain road.
Following surgery, Helenka’s treatment shifted to oncology. She began radiotherapy—the only currently effective treatment for her condition. Even this, however, comes with risks. Radiation therapy offers a chance at survival, with doctors estimating a 50% chance of recovery over five years. Every session is a careful balancing act: fighting the tumor while minimizing potential long-term complications. For Helenka, each day is a step between hope and fear, recovery and uncertainty.
At just a few years old, Helenka’s world has been overtaken by medical procedures, hospital visits, and the watchful eyes of specialists. She endures treatments no child should face, and yet her courage is profound. Her tiny body undergoes therapy, her spirit shines through exhaustion, and every small smile or grasp of a parent’s hand is a reminder of her incredible resilience.
The long-term consequences of both the tumor and the radiotherapy remain unknown. We cannot yet tell what permanent damage may have occurred, how her development will be affected, or what complications may arise. Our focus is singular:
Helenka’s survival, her health, and the chance to experience a childhood that she deserves. Each day is a battle, and each milestone—no matter how small—is a victory for our family.
The financial and emotional burden of her illness is immense. Ongoing therapies, medical care, and specialized rehabilitation require resources beyond what most families can manage alone. We are committed to giving Helenka every possible advantage in her fight, but the support of compassionate individuals is crucial. Every contribution helps provide treatments, medications, and the specialized care she needs to survive and thrive.
Helenka’s courage is a daily inspiration. Even in the face of pain, she shows determination and resilience. Her parents, family, and medical team work tirelessly to ensure that she is supported physically, emotionally, and medically. While the future is uncertain, Helenka’s bravery gives hope to all who witness her struggle.
We ask for your help—not just in financial terms, but in solidarity, encouragement, and shared hope. Supporting Helenka means giving her the chance to continue her life, to grow, and to one day experience the joys of childhood that most children take for granted. Her story is a reminder of how fragile life can be and how vital it is to act when a child’s life hangs in the balance.
Through the darkness of diagnosis, surgery, and treatment, Helenka remains a fighter. Each day brings a new challenge, a new test, and a new reason to hope. Her strength, even at such a young age, is remarkable. Every smile, every moment of responsiveness, and every small step toward recovery is a triumph for her and for those who love her.
While we do not know what the future holds, we know that Helenka deserves every chance possible to live, to laugh, and to grow. Her fight is not over, but with your help, she can continue to receive the medical care, therapy, and love that she needs to face each day with courage. Every gesture of support brings us closer to giving Helenka the life she deserves.
Please join us in helping our brave little girl. Together, we can give Helenka a chance at survival, a chance at childhood, and a chance at the future she dreams of.