Hope from the Hospital Windows
The idea for this large-scale event, involving nearly 40 educational institutions from Bishkek, arose from a touching observation. Leila Keldibekova, a representative of the Association of Children's Educational Organizations, shares how they decided to reach all patients in the hospital, not just the children from the oncology department.“Last year, we only congratulated the children in the oncology department. When we went outside in costumes with empty bags, I saw children in the windows of other buildings. They were also waiting for a miracle. We realized that they deserved a celebration too,” Keldibekova recalls.
This year, the "New Year Descent" event became more extensive: over 700 children received gifts, of which about 600 are in the Jalal-Abad hospital, and another 150 are in the second department.
Family Support in Preparing Gifts
Zarina Bayseitova, the founder of the "Pythagoras" kindergarten network, enthusiastically supported this initiative. Preparing for the holiday became a real family affair for her and her family.“We gathered gifts as a family: my husband, two children - we all chose sweets and toys together. As mothers, we understand that when a child is sick, everyone's mood is low. It is very important to lift the spirits of such children because if you believe in a miracle, it will happen,” says Zarina.
Emotions that Heal
The joyful reactions of the children were immediate. In the wards, usually filled with medical procedures, laughter rang out. Madina, a little patient, excitedly confessed that she wanted paints as a gift, while Ayana, an older girl, was pleasantly surprised: “I didn't expect this, I like everything!”For grandmother Ryskan Zharmukhamedova, the visit from Santa Clauses brought tears of happiness, as her granddaughter has been battling illness for 5-6 years.
“My granddaughter is happy, she shouts: 'Santa Claus!' This is a wonderful event, it lifts the spirits, and positivity affects recovery. We have wonderful doctors; my granddaughter can already walk by herself and do exercises. I hope she will fully recover,” Ryskan shares.
Faith in Miracles
The volunteers themselves, adjusting their costumes, emphasize that their task is not just to distribute sweets.“Miracles happen on New Year's, the main thing is faith. We want the children to feel hope and joy. And, of course, we wish them health!” they note.
The medical staff confirms that such events play an important role in treatment. The festive atmosphere and attention help children distract from pain and everyday worries, contributing to faster recovery.
“Children are most often here after surgeries; it’s tough for them. Such an event brought them joy. The children were happy, and that is very important for their recovery,” comments Nazgul Maadanbekova, the head nurse of the trauma and orthopedics department.
