Born in a Ukrainian hospital, baby Dima’s life began with heartbreak. Diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a chronic condition causing fluid buildup in the brain, his parents abandoned him at birth, unwilling to care for a child with health challenges. “They wanted nothing to do with a baby that experienced health issues,” leaving him in the care of hospital staff.

Transferred to an orphanage for children with disabilities in Kramatorsk, Dima’s progress was slow. By age four, he couldn’t walk or eat independently, leading caregivers to believe survival itself was his greatest achievement. “Those who took care of him didn’t expect much change in Dima’s physical and mental capacities.”

The situation worsened in 2014 when conflict erupted in Ukraine. With limited resources and danger looming, orphanage staff feared children like Dima wouldn’t survive.

But against the odds, Dima’s life took a miraculous turn. Ernest and Ruth Chaves, an American couple who had adopted seven children, heard about him and offered him a home in Vermont. Within a year, Dima learned to walk with a walker and eat on his own, exceeding all expectations.

Now named Zebadiah, he speaks fluent English and Ukrainian, thriving in a loving family. “He’s eager to learn new things and challenges himself every single day,” proving the transformative power of love and care.