Baby Undergoes Cancer Treatment in Birmingham After Photo Reveals Critical Sign
Ten-month-old Bohdan is currently receiving chemotherapy in Birmingham after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of eye cancer. His parents, Stepan and Alina Kozariichuk, both 32, first noticed something was wrong when they observed his eyes becoming crossed and a distinctive white reflection appearing in photographs taken with a flash.
Family's Journey from Ukraine to Devastating Diagnosis
Stepan and Alina relocated from Kyiv, Ukraine, to the United Kingdom in 2022, settling in Penrith, Cumbria, with hopes of building a better future and starting a family. After experiencing a miscarriage in December 2023 and another pregnancy loss previously in Ukraine, they were overjoyed to conceive in August 2024 and welcome their son Bohdan in May the following year.
However, in late last year, the couple became concerned as Bohdan's eyes developed a crossed appearance. Medical examinations confirmed their fears, identifying a white reflection in his eye that was only visible under certain lighting conditions, particularly with camera flash. On February 13, Bohdan was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma, an uncommon and aggressive eye cancer that threatens his vision.
Double Tragedy on Diagnosis Day
In a cruel twist of fate, on the same day as Bohdan's diagnosis, the family received news that Alina's parents' home in Kyiv had been destroyed by drone strikes, demolishing the house and car. Stepan described the emotional turmoil, stating, "In one day we lost everything we had built - and learned our baby is fighting for his sight." He recalled holding Bohdan, who began laughing innocently while his parents struggled to comprehend the devastating news.
Treatment and Uncertain Prognosis
Bohdan is undergoing chemotherapy at hospitals in both Newcastle and Birmingham, with doctors reporting that the tumor is responding positively to the initial two rounds of treatment. Despite this progress, medical professionals have warned that even if he overcomes the cancer, Bohdan is unlikely to retain much, if any, of his eyesight. Stepan explained, "He will have some vision, but we don't know the depth or how good it will be, it's all unknown."
Family's Resilience and Challenges
The family makes weekly journeys between Newcastle and Birmingham from their home in Cumbria to ensure Bohdan receives necessary care, with Stepan estimating he has traveled approximately 4,000 miles since the diagnosis. Stepan, a factory worker, takes leave from work during treatments, while Alina is on maternity leave, resulting in limited household income. They are raising funds to cover travel, accommodation, and potential future medical expenses.
Despite the challenges, the family remains hopeful. Stepan shared, "As parents, we hope for the best. Despite chemotherapy and endless hospital visits, our son still smiles, plays with his drum, watches cartoons and reaches for toys. His strength gives us strength." The couple emphasizes moving forward with determination, supported by Bohdan's resilient spirit throughout his ongoing battle.
