Maria Malytska (@radluga) • Threads, Say more

Today I want to share something positive. My son is nonverbal. We understand a lot of what he wants, but sometimes we still have to guess what he likes and what he doesn't. Since he can't tell us much with words, we often make choices for him — what to wear, what to read, what music to listen to. Some things are easy. I know for sure that he loves Paddington Bear. But with other things, I admit I sometimes take advantage of my decision-making powers.

radluga

21h

For example, his Halloween costume this year was a hobbit. For bedtime stories, we're currently reading *The Witcher*. Next, I think we'll move on to *The Hobbit* and *The Lord of the Rings*. And then there's music. My favorite band is Metallica, so my son owns a few Metallica T-shirts, and sometimes we listen to their songs together. Occasionally, I even sing them to him. Do I know if he actually likes Metallica? Not really. But he isn't complaining, and sometimes he even laughs.

radluga

21h

Especially when I'm singing. 🤣

radluga

Today was the last dance class before our summer break. They promised a few classes here and there during the summer, but not many. Apparently, most people decided it's already vacation time, so I ended up being the only student in class. My teacher seemed to take that as an opportunity to find out what I'm actually capable of. By the end, I was exhausted. At some point, I think I forgot how to breathe. But I absolutely loved it. I haven't felt this good in a very long time.

radluga

I guess my therapist was right: dancing really is the best antidepressant. Now I'm planning to keep dancing at home over the summer and counting down the days until classes start again in September.

radluga

05/30/26

radluga

05/26/26

In Canada, despite all the bureaucracy and paperwork, we were able to get into an amazing clinic for children with disabilities quite quickly. And about a year and a half after moving here, our son finally got a diagnosis. He was already 4.5 years old at that point. He has a rare genetic condition called FOXG1 syndrome. Honestly, finally knowing the diagnosis was a relief. For the first time, I stopped blaming myself for being sick during pregnancy.

radluga

05/26/26

FOXG1 is de novo — it just happens randomly, not because of the parents. And through the diagnosis, we found something else: an incredible FOXG1 community. A community of parents who refused to accept “there is no treatment” as the final answer. They created the FOXG1 Foundation, and now they are so close to clinical trials and, hopefully, real treatment for our children. I’m deeply grateful for all of them. Fingers crossed that one day it will help our kids ❤️