Anna

Anna from Kherson went through a devastating loss – during the russian occupation she lost both her mother and grandmother. It was an incredibly painful time, especially since Anna’s little brother was only two years old. Yet her father was always there. His strength and care helped the children endure, stay together, and support one another.

When the Ukrainian Armed Forces liberated the right bank from the occupation, the family had to leave everything behind and eventually settled in the Vinnytsia region. There they began a new life. “Before the war we had a complete family, dreams, and plans. And then one morning you wake up and realize there are no more plans, no ideas, no dreams. Now we live one day at a time, knowing that each day could be the last,” says Anna.

Adjusting to a new life far from home was extremely difficult, especially with a small child to care for. Anna stayed at home with her younger brother for two years until he started kindergarten. Only in 2024, after sessions with psychologists and with the support of her family, she found the courage to continue her education. Today, Anna is studying early childhood education and dreams of earning a bachelor’s degree.

According to Anna, the Children of Heroes Charity Fund reached out to their family on its own and began providing support — with humanitarian aid, food, essential items, and psychological assistance. She is especially grateful to the family assistant from the Fund, who was always available, no matter the time of day, and genuinely cared about their well-being.

Despite all the hardships she has endured, Anna knows that you must never give up, even when it feels like there is no strength left. Hard days and weeks eventually pass, and the memory of loved ones who are no longer here gives a sense of their presence and support. She believes each of us has more strength than we realize. Even in the darkest moments, it is important to remember: this period will pass, and light will return to life.