Natálka – the little girl who never gave up
Natálka was born in 2014, as a much-anticipated baby. The pregnancy went perfectly well. On the day of her birth, there was no indication that the lives of her entire family would change in a matter of minutes.
The labor did not progress. The contractions were strong, but Natálka was not coming out. The doctors alternated between letting the labor continue naturally, then trying to speed it up, and later considering the use of forceps. During one of the contractions, abnormal heart tones appeared on the monitor. A race against time began.
The medical staff rushed to get more doctors, and orders were being shouted: “push,” “don’t push,” “we’re going for a Caesarean section.” The mother remembers only fear – and then silence. When she woke up, the doctor told her just one sentence:
“We had to resuscitate the baby. She has been transferred to the university hospital.”
No one told them anything more.
Cooling therapy and days filled with uncertainty
After being transferred, Natálka was admitted to the intensive care unit, where doctors began therapeutic hypothermia (cooling of the brain) – a procedure used when there is suspicion of oxygen deprivation during birth. Information was very limited, and every minute felt endless.
Her mother signed a release form so she could be with her daughter as soon as possible. Every day she held her tiny hand, stroked her, fed her, and spent all her time by her side. She talked to her, encouraged her, and believed that she would make it.
After several weeks, Natálka was finally strong enough to be moved from the ICU to the neonatal ward. Then she was able to go home – but without a clear idea of what lay ahead.
A diagnosis that changed their lives
During the first year, everyone simply waited to see how Natálka would develop. Only later did the diagnosis come:
Cerebral palsy – quadriparetic form with a pronounced choreoathetoid component.
This means impairment of all four limbs, along with significant involuntary movements that Natálka cannot control. When she tries to grasp something or make a purposeful movement, her body sometimes does the exact opposite. This greatly limits her independence.
A little girl with incredible determination
From an early age, she has been undergoing regular rehabilitation, month-long therapy stays, the Vojta method, neurological care, speech therapy, and ophthalmologic treatment. Her parents taught her how to eat, drink, and communicate – at first only through eye movements and using picture cards.
Speech has long been challenging. Natálka can say a few simple words – such as “mom” or “yum” – but otherwise her speech is very difficult for others to understand. Her parents, however, understand her perfectly. Her facial expressions, eyes, and characteristic sounds often convey more than whole sentences.
Despite everything, she is a bright, intelligent, sensitive, and perceptive young girl. She has an excellent memory, loves being around people, and is able to share joy and sadness in her own way – a way her loved ones understand.
She attends a special school, where she has her own assistant and where she feels very comfortable.
Although, due to severe motor impairments, she uses a wheelchair all day, wears diapers, and depends on constant help from others, she never loses her smile or her desire to be part of everything happening around her.
Why the family needs a new car
As Natálka grows, so does the need for specialized equipment and safe transportation. Unfortunately, the family’s current car is no longer sufficient. Natálka’s wheelchair is heavy, difficult to handle, and there is simply not enough space in the car anymore.
A new car ith special modifications would allow the family to:
- safely transport her to school every day,
- travel reliably to rehabilitation sessions, speech therapy, and doctors’ appointments,
- load and handle the wheelchair more easily,
- take trips and attend events that Natálka loves.
However, the cost of such a specially adapted car is far beyond the family’s financial means. That is why they are reaching out to people who want and are able to help.
“Natálka teaches us how to face life.” This is what her mother says.
Despite her serious diagnosis, Natálka is a child who gives love, joy, and inspiration. Her determination and smile can brighten any day.
Helping to purchase a new car is not just a technical matter – it is an opportunity to give her an easier life, a life she truly loves.
Let’s help Natálka travel to the places where she feels happy.
Let’s help her experience the trips she loves.
Let’s help a family that gives their very best every single day.