“At first, everything was going well; she was almost never sick until she turned one. We tried to keep her at home, protecting her from viruses and colds. However, in the summer of 2025, she suffered from pneumonia and an intestinal infection, which led to a deterioration in her condition. She developed shortness of breath and became easily fatigued, even during calm play,” says Gulaiym, Aylin's mother.
Aylin's mother has taken her to various hospitals several times — infectious disease, pulmonology, and cardiology departments. All the doctors unanimously stated that Aylin could only be helped abroad.
“She has a very serious defect. Our specialists said that Aylin might not survive such a complex operation. In Turkey, they are ready to accept her for treatment; they have the necessary equipment and experienced doctors,” adds Gulaiym.
Aylin urgently needs surgery to close the ventricular septal defect. Without this intervention, her heart will not be able to cope with the loads.
Aylin is the youngest child in the family.
“Her older brother and sister care for her very much, play with her, and worry when she feels unwell,” says her mother.
The family lives in difficult conditions. The mother is raising three children alone, as the father left when Aylin was born. The woman works as a cashier and earns about 30,000 soms a month. This amount barely covers food and medicine, let alone the expensive surgery.
“I am a single mother. I have spent all my savings on examinations and trips to hospitals. I cannot afford the surgery,” shares Gulaiym.
Aylin smiles, loves to play, reaches out to her brother and sister. She wants to live, and I really want my daughter to live. I ask everyone who cares to help us save her.
The surgery for Aylin with Down syndrome and heart defect is necessary abroad.
The cost of the surgery in Turkey is $19,500. So far, the family has managed to raise 90,000 soms, but they are still far from the required amount.
“Every som you contribute, every bit helps — it’s a chance for Aylin to have a life with a healthy heart and without pain,” emphasizes her mother.
