Turning eighteen typically marks the beginning of adulthood, filled with big dreams and joyful celebrations. However, for Maxim, this milestone has become a true test of endurance as he fights his illness. On February 22, just one day before his birthday, he began his challenging ninth round of chemotherapy.

At this moment, the young man is battling on two fronts. While the chemotherapy is being administered, his tired body is also undergoing radiotherapy. He has already completed 17 out of 31 sessions. Five times a week, despite experiencing nausea and extreme fatigue, he must attend his treatments.

“His blood counts are constantly fluctuating, and he only eats tiny amounts due to persistent heartburn and dizziness. Maxim sleeps a lot, and his strength is dwindling," his mother shares. "On the first day of the treatment, he wasn’t himself. On the eve of his birthday, a deep sense of melancholy washed over him. Neither he nor we could have ever imagined that we would be spending his 18th birthday within the four walls of a hospital. That evening, he vomited twice and then slept until nightfall, overwhelmed by this sense of injustice.”

On the morning of February 23, something miraculous happened, even amidst the battle against cancer. When Maxim returned from his latest radiotherapy session, he was astonished to find that he no longer recognised his ward. Volunteers from the 'Chance for Life' and 'Terra' foundations had transformed the dull, grey room into a vibrant oasis filled with life: balloons, an abundance of fresh fruit, and a beautiful birthday cake adorned with candles.

Even the doctors on their rounds decided to break from strict protocol and played a Russian birthday greeting for Maxim. His consultant, Ruslan, brought a present along with encouraging words that inspired him not to give up.

“You should have seen his eyes! My son was absolutely delighted,” his mother recalls with a smile. “We lit the candles, gave him gift vouchers for Zara, and then spent the whole evening playing board games. That atmosphere truly lifted his spirits. For a full three days after the party, he was in fantastic form, and he’s still feeling that way”.

Maxim is still in the hospital today, but he is already focused on the door. He’s feeling well, and if all goes according to plan, he will be discharged tomorrow. This marks a small yet significant victory in his ongoing battle for life.