Olena Ivanivna is originally from the Artsyz district but has lived in Izmail for the past 20 years. She has been working as a salesperson her whole life and truly loves what she does – customers appreciate her, and she always treats them with kindness and respect. She also raised her sons to be just as hardworking and sincere as she is. Since childhood, one of her sons – Vlad – has been a jack of all trades: he could fix anything, complete all the housework, and cook a delicious meal. He worked in Odesa, but after the war broke out, he came to Izmail to inform his mother of the worsening situation in their country. Later, Vlad had gone to war. Olena Ivanivna was very worried and anxiously awaited every text message from him until March 13, 2023, when she found out that he had died.
This woman will forever feel a massive loss in her heart, but she found caring people along her journey that have lent her a helping hand.

I do not think talking about what happened to me is necessary. Not only is my son gone, but a part of me is also missing. Although Vlad may be physically dead, he is still with me. I talk to him and sometimes think about what he would do in specific situations. I remember him. Some believe God cannot come to everyone’s aid simultaneously, but he brings people into our lives who can help us. One day at work, a client saw me in mourning and asked if he could give my number to good people. I agreed, and that’s how I met Viktor from Our Home Ukraine (OHU). I was crying while talking to him on the phone and just looking for support. When Victor calls me or we meet, I still see compassion in his eyes. He always listens to what I say, which helps a lot. I also met the founder of OHU – Tanya Polsky – in Bulgaria, who cried with me when she heard my story. There are many people like me – wives and mothers crippled by loss. 

~ Olena Ivanivna

Our Home Ukraine continues to support Olena Ivanovna by providing her with food packages and moral and legal support.