Dima Kalekin, born in Ukraine with hydrocephalus, began life in challenging circumstances. Abandoned by his biological parents due to his condition, he was left in an orphanage in eastern Ukraine, where he struggled to develop. By age four, Dima still couldn’t walk or eat independently, and staff doubted he would lead a normal life.
Then, in 2014, war erupted in the region, putting Dima and other children at the orphanage in imminent danger. Forced to flee, they spent a week without adequate food, water, or medicine until separatists helped transport them to Ukrainian authorities. The children, including Dima, ended up in a hospital in Kharkiv. The staff, moved by his fragile condition, sought assistance and contacted a priest to pray for Dima’s future.
The prayers were answered. Ernest and Ruth Chaves, a couple from Vermont, had been looking to adopt a child from the war zone. When they saw Dima, they knew he was meant to be part of their family. Having already adopted seven children, the Chaveses were experienced and quickly completed the necessary paperwork to bring Dima to the United States. Soon after, Dima joined his new family and received a new name, Zebadiah.
Zebadiah thrived in Vermont. Within days, he began feeding himself, and within a year, he had transformed. He learned to walk and communicate in both Ukrainian and English. Doctors believe his brain hadn’t suffered significant damage from hydrocephalus, giving him a promising future.
Now, Zebadiah continues to inspire with his resilience and strength. Though he still requires medical care, his journey from abandonment to a loving home is a testament to the power of family, hope, and the human spirit.\