Ukrainian mom gets life-changing surgery in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - A young Ukrainian mother, who we’re calling “Olga,” had a bone tumor called an osteoma growing out of her forehead.

After 25 years of people starting, snickering and talking behind her back, she traveled to Richmond to get it removed.

* WARNING: This story contains graphic operating room video and may not be appropriate for everyone *

In February 2022, Olga and her family escaped the Russian army with just the clothes on their back. Even though none of them spoke a word of English, they came to the U.S. hoping to get a life-changing surgery for Olga.

This week, Dr. Joe Niamtu performed the procedure to remove the bone tumor.

“This is something she’s always wanted done - and it was a pretty special situation,” he said. “She’s on a refugee visa here, I believe that’s what you call it. And it’s just my honor to help her.”

The surgery was a dream come true for Olga.

“I’m so, so happy,” she said just 24 hours after the surgery.