Faces of The Fellowship: Valerian

The Fellowship  |  May 18, 2016

Valerian, young IFCJ recipient in a wheelchair smiling at the camera with his hands in the air.
Faces of The Fellowship: Valerian

Tatiana was 29 and Valery 55 when they met and decided to marry. They devoted their lives to each other and eagerly awaited the day they would become parents.  

However, the years went by and a child was nowhere in sight. The couple consulted the best doctors and tried every type of treatment until finally, after 11 years of anticipation, Valerian was born.

Tatiana’s pregnancy was normal and nothing indicated any possible danger to her baby. But during the birth process Valerian was severely hurt – and was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Today Valerian is 10 years old. He suffers from many disabilities and cannot walk or even sit by himself. However, he is extremely bright. 

Tatiana is now 50 and Valery 76. All their dreams changed once Valerian was born. Since his birth, their only concern has been his wellbeing and future. Both parents are dedicated to improving his health and providing him the best education possible.

The parents are now both pensioners, and rely on the small governmental allowance to survive and to support their son. 

Thankfully, they also have The Fellowship for support. We provide food packages every month, clothing twice a year, and financial assistance when emergencies arise.

“We can hardly afford the expensive medication and ongoing rehabilitation treatments our beloved son requires,” Valery says. “When the freezing winters come, we wonder how we can buy him warm clothing. And when the Jewish holidays come, we wonder how we will celebrate according to biblical tradition.”

Valery continues, “The Fellowship provides us with the answer, helping us solve both problems. They are our anchor; we can rely upon them in this sometimes-difficult world. What a relief to know there are people who care and help.”