Angelina’s story began with love and hope.
Her young, happy parents dreamed of how their family would soon be filled with joy and laughter when their baby girl arrived.
But at 20 weeks into the pregnancy, their dreams were overshadowed by devastating news. During a routine check-up, doctors discovered a serious heart defect in their unborn daughter.

Angelina’s birth took place under close medical supervision at the Institute of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynecology. Her parents gave her the name Angelina, hoping it would protect her and give her strength. And indeed, that strength was needed right away — her life became a fight for every heartbeat.
Just hours after she was born, the family rushed to the Amosov National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery — the place where hearts are saved. Holding her tiny hand, her parents prayed for a miracle while fearing the worst.

Doctors quickly conducted thorough tests and discovered Angelina’s heart was very weak. She was diagnosed with aortic valve insufficiency and pulmonary conduit stenosis.
They explained that her condition was extremely critical. In severe cases, aortic valve insufficiency can lead to life-threatening complications, such as pulmonary edema.
Emergency surgery was the only option — and it was performed within her first month of life.

After long, anxious hours, her parents finally saw their baby girl again — fragile and tiny, but already a fighter.
She began to recover quickly, and her parents promised to give her the fullest life possible.

Years passed, and Angelina grew up like any other child — going to school, dancing, listening to music. Her joy and love for life were proof of her strength and resilience.

But in 2024, during a routine check-up, doctors noticed that her heart had weakened again.
The recommendation was urgent — another surgery to replace the valves.
Her parents once again faced a terrifying risk to save their daughter. Despite her young age, Angelina understood everything and bravely prepared for what lay ahead.

The operation lasted nine long hours — filled with anxiety, prayer, and hope.
And then, the words that brought the world back to life: the surgery was successful.
Angelina is now recovering quickly. While physical strain is still off-limits, she remains happy and full of gratitude.

One day, smiling at her mother, Angelina said she wants to become a doctor — to save children’s lives just like hers was saved.
Maybe one day, her heart will save others.

Angelina’s journey was supported not only by her loving family and doctors but also by kind-hearted people — and the brand Lancôme.
She is sincerely grateful to Lancôme, whose support through the “Big Little Heart” project on St. Nicholas Day 2023 helped make her recovery possible.