Stanislava Ilchenko’s saved heart

Stanislava Ilchenko’s saved heart

Sometimes a rescued child's heart begins with art, kindness, and the desire to help. That's exactly what happened in the story of Stanislav Ilchenko from the Kyiv region. His heart implant was purchased thanks to a charitable initiative that united art, Ukrainian tradition, and caring people.

The exhibition of author dolls‑amulets “Ukraine United” by the distinguished Ukrainian art figure Alla Serdtseva became not only an important artistic event, but also a charitable initiative to support children with congenital heart defects.

This collection was created by the artist after the start of the full‑scale invasion—as a personal reflection on Ukrainian resilience, memory, and inner unity. In her works, folk traditions, the symbolism of various regions of Ukraine, and images that convey a sense of home, roots, and the connection between generations are woven together.

The core of the exhibition consists of 25 talisman dolls—one for each region of Ukraine. Each doll is handcrafted and features elements characteristic of its specific region: ornaments, colors, fabrics, decorations, and symbols that have shaped Ukrainian cultural tradition across generations.

In every detail—memory of the native land, protection, the strength of the lineage, hope, and life. Together, these dolls form a cohesive image of Ukraine—diverse in their cultural characteristics, yet united by a shared history and values. Within the exhibition, creative gatherings also took place, workshops on making traditional Ukrainian ornaments, and discussions about the symbolism of folk art.

And most importantly – this event helped raise funds for a heart implant for a child.

Stanyslav Ilchenko is 7 years old. His family learned about his congenital heart defect by chance – during preparation for another surgery. After examination at the Amosov National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery, doctors diagnosed an open arterial duct that required urgent closure.

Stanislav often fell ill, had comorbid conditions, and this winter he suffered from bilateral pneumonia and flu A. Because of this, the strain on his body increased significantly, and postponing the operation was dangerous.

Stanislav successfully underwent an endovascular surgery to correct a congenital heart defect at the Amosov National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery. The operation was successful, and the little boy is already on his way home.

On this important day Alla Serdtseva personally came to the Amosov Institute to visit Stanislav and support his family.

We sincerely thank Alli Serdtseva for her talent, kindness, and big heart. We thank every donor who supported the exhibition and helped raise funds for the implant.

Thanks to you, Stanislav has gained a chance for a healthy future, an active childhood, and a life without dangerous strain on his heart.

We wish Stanislav a speedy recovery, robust health, joy, and a carefree childhood.