Mom gives up baby because of his head – 4 yrs later, there’s a knock on the orphanage door
Meet Dima Kalekin, an incredible young boy from Ukraine who has defied all odds and captured the hearts of many. Dima’s story begins with a heartbreaking start, as his biological parents made the heart-wrenching decision to leave him at the hospital when they saw that he was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, also known as “water on the brain.” But little did they know, this special little boy would go on to amaze the world in ways they couldn’t have imagined.
Dima found himself in an orphanage for disabled children, facing a future filled with uncertainty. Despite the challenges he faced, the orphanage staff and the Ukrainian newspaper Fakty i Kommentarii marveled at his resilience. At the age of four, Dima struggled with basic tasks such as eating with utensils and walking. It seemed unlikely that he would develop like other children, but he proved everyone wrong.
In 2014, the war in eastern Ukraine forced Dima and the other children from the orphanage to flee and search for safety. For a week, they endured unimaginable hardship with no access to water, food, or medicine. Eventually, a group of separatists recognized the dire situation and brought the children to Ukrainian authorities. Dima ended up in a hospital in Kharkiv, where doctors were deeply moved by his condition. His journey had taken a toll on him, and his survival seemed bleak.
In a twist of fate, prayers were answered when a priest intervened and called for a family to adopt Dima. Ernest and Ruth Chaves from Vermont, United States, who were already experienced parents having adopted seven children, were drawn to the story of the war-torn region and decided to embark on the adoption journey. As soon as they saw Dima, they knew their hearts belonged to him.
Dima’s life changed forever when Ernest and Ruth welcomed him into their family. He gained a new name, Zebediah Chaves, and joined his new siblings in Vermont. The love and care provided by his new family transformed Zebediah’s life in remarkable ways. Progress was evident from the moment he arrived in his new home – just days after his arrival, he amazed his parents by independently eating with a spoon!
Since then, Zebediah’s journey has been one of growth and triumph. He can now speak, understand both Ukrainian and English, and walk confidently. American doctors have examined his brain and are optimistic that he will continue to develop normally. Zebediah’s resilience and unwavering determination have inspired many around the world.
Looking at him today, in 2022, it is hard to believe how far Zebediah has come. He has blossomed into a charming and handsome young boy, a testament to the love and support of his adoptive family. As he continues his journey, Zebediah will undergo several operations, but with his incredible strength and zest for life, his future shines brightly.
Let us celebrate Zebediah’s incredible achievements and send him and his family our warmest wishes. Together, let’s embrace the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity. If you find inspiration in Zebediah’s story, share it with others who believe in the transformative power of love and hope.
