Saveliy was born with a disability and a very rare diagnosis — he has no kneecaps. When we first met, he couldn’t speak due to having undergone 19 surgeries. The pain had tightened his facial muscles. He couldn’t move without a wheelchair. His mother died from drug abuse, leaving him completely alone.
For the past six years, we’ve been walking alongside him. Today, he speaks well, studies foreign languages, walks with a cane, plans to start a family, has been baptized, and actively participates in ministry. Just a week ago, he left for St. Petersburg to pursue his studies. He wants to earn a living so that he can help others like him get back on their feet and introduce them to Jesus.
Right now, we’re also praying especially for five-month-old Anya, who is in hospice care. She is the fifth child in her family, and all of the children have been abandoned by their parents. Anya has already survived three heart surgeries and is currently in critical condition. She is fed through a special machine with nutritional formulas. Despite clear developmental delays, she responds well when I visit and reaches out to be held. We’re providing her with food and care.
I’m so thankful that you are always near — praying, supporting, and helping us. Every month, I receive dozens of calls and letters from children and their relatives expressing deep gratitude. It’s hard to describe what that means.
Thank you for being part of this ministry!
Ministry in Omsk – Sasha Melnikov