Stepan and Alina Kozariichuk, both aged 32, embarked on a journey from war-torn Kyiv to Penrith in Cumbria, seeking safety and a fresh start in the United Kingdom. After enduring the heartbreak of two miscarriages, one in Ukraine and another in December 2023, they celebrated a successful pregnancy in August 2024. Their long-awaited son, Bohdan, arrived in May 2025, bringing immense joy to the family.
Initial Observations and Medical Examination
Towards the end of 2025, the parents began to notice concerning changes in Bohdan's eyes. They observed that his eyes were becoming crossed, and under certain lighting conditions, particularly with camera flash, a distinctive white reflection became visible. Initially, the couple hoped the issue might be minor, perhaps requiring only a temporary eye patch.
Medical professionals examined the infant and confirmed the presence of the white reflection, which is often a critical indicator of serious eye conditions. On February 13, following thorough assessments, Bohdan was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of eye cancer that poses a significant threat to his vision.
A Day of Dual Devastation
In a cruel twist of fate, the very same day they received Bohdan's diagnosis, the Kozariichuks learned that Alina's family home in Kyiv had been completely destroyed by drone attacks. The property and a car were obliterated, compounding their emotional distress as they grappled with their son's health crisis.
Stepan, who works in a factory, described the overwhelming nature of that day. "In one day we lost everything we had built - and learned our baby is fighting for his sight," he said. "When we got the news, I was holding my baby in my hands and he didn't understand what was happening - so he started laughing. Meanwhile, I could barely hold myself together and Alina was crying too."
Treatment and Prognosis
Bohdan, referred to as their "rainbow baby" after previous pregnancy losses, immediately began chemotherapy treatments. He receives care at hospitals in both Newcastle and Birmingham, requiring his parents to commute weekly from Cumbria. Stepan estimates he has driven approximately 4,000 miles since the diagnosis to ensure his son receives necessary medical attention.
Thus far, doctors have observed promising signs that the tumor is shrinking following two rounds of chemotherapy. However, medical professionals have warned that even if Bohdan successfully overcomes the cancer, he will likely retain very little, if any, of his vision. The exact extent of potential vision loss remains uncertain at this stage.
Financial and Emotional Strain
The family faces considerable financial pressure as they navigate this challenging period. Stepan takes leave from work whenever Bohdan has treatments, while Alina remains on maternity pay, resulting in reduced household income. They have initiated fundraising efforts to cover travel and accommodation expenses associated with medical visits, as well as potential future treatments related to Bohdan's vision.
Despite the exhausting regimen of chemotherapy and hospital visits, Bohdan continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. "Our son still smiles, plays with his drum, watches cartoons and reaches for toys," Stepan shared. "His strength gives us strength."
The couple remains determined to support their son through this difficult journey. "Of course at first it was difficult to accept the situation, but we understand there is nothing we can do except go forwards," Stepan added. "As parents, we hope for the best."
