Moms of handicapped children in Russia deserve accolades beyond measure. That is the most prominent thought in my mind as I ponder my recent trip to that vast land. Their children are survivors because of their 24/7 sacrifice amidst a system in many ways working against them.
I heard a sad statistic that 95% of Russian men abandon their handicapped children at birth. Thus, the salute to those moms who love with a very great love. And to the man at the address pictured above, one of the 5% who chose differently, may his home be blessed.
My friends, Valodia and Natasha, lost their handicapped daughter, Dina, to complications from cerebral palsy at age 9 several years ago. Since then, they have dedicated themselves to making a difference in the lives of other families in similar circumstances. The door to the fence above is knocked on daily by people seeking help, consolation, encouragement. They know that at 18 Spartakovskaya Street, no one is ever abandoned.