My Heart Is Outside My Chest | BORN DIFFERENT

Virsaviya Borun-Goncharova is not your typical 12-year-old. Born with a rare condition called Pentalogy of Cantrell, Virsaviya’s heart developed outside her chest—unprotected by her ribcage, exposed in a way that seems almost impossible. But where most would see limitations, Virsaviya sees a chance to inspire. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and the determination to live life fully, no matter the odds.

A Miracle from the Start

Virsaviya’s journey began with heartbreak and hope.
Her mother first learned of her condition at 26 weeks pregnant. Doctors told her that her baby would not survive, that she should consider abortion. The news was devastating—her mother collapsed on the hospital floor, screaming, fearing she would lose her child. But she refused to give up.

“Of course I kept her, because I loved her.”

From her very first days, Virsaviya defied expectations. She survived, she grew, and she thrived. Today, she looks back on those hard times with gratitude for the love and support that carried her through.

Living with Pentalogy of Cantrell

Virsaviya’s condition means her heart is outside her ribcage, unprotected by bone or muscle.

“People often think that since my heart is outside of my body, I feel pain there. But I don’t. Seeing my heart outside my body doesn’t necessarily feel like anything, because I’m used to it.”

She’s adapted to her unique body, and it doesn’t stop her from enjoying life. But there are challenges. She can’t run or walk too fast, and stairs are difficult because her oxygen levels drop dangerously low. Sometimes, she needs supplemental oxygen—her levels can fall under 50 during an asthma attack or after exertion.

But through it all, Virsaviya remains upbeat, energetic, and positive.

Her Room, Her World

Step into Virsaviya’s room and you’ll find a space filled with creativity and passion.
She draws, does homework, and pursues her hobbies with joy. School can be tough—some kids make mean jokes about her condition, trying to use it against her. But she doesn’t let it get her down.

“Sometimes it could be more difficult, other times it’s okay.”

Her mom is her biggest supporter, proud of her strength and the way she proves doctors wrong every day.

“I’m grateful for proving the doctors wrong—that I can still eat, walk, and be alive.”

Spreading Awareness & Inspiring Others

Virsaviya and her mom decided to share her journey on Instagram, posting about her condition and daily life.

“It’s important for me to spread awareness because there are a few others out there that also have similar conditions to me. If they want help from doctors, people should know more about it so that they would learn how to help or treat it.”

Her posts reach thousands, showing that happiness and beauty come in many forms. She’s determined to push her limits, try new things, and inspire others to see beyond appearances.

Her friends describe her as beautiful, cool, and someone who never gives up.

More Than Just Her Heart

Despite her condition, Virsaviya refuses to let it define her.

“I want to inspire other people. I want people to know that I am more than just my heart—I’m beautiful just the way I am. And so are you.”

Her story is a testament to inner strength, self-acceptance, and the power of hope. She is living proof that being “born different” can be the start of something extraordinary.

Virsaviya’s heart may be outside her chest, but her courage and spirit shine from within. She’s a reminder that beauty, strength, and happiness are not defined by what’s on the outside—but by the love, resilience, and dreams we carry inside.