The Story of a Woman Who Went Through Helplessness - and Learned to Change the Lives Around Her

“I Couldn’t Hug My Child”: The Story of a Woman Who Survived Occupation and Became a Source of Support for Others

When your world narrows down to a single thought - whether your child is alive - everything else stops mattering.

“I was in Kovsharivka, and my daughter was in Sumy region. I couldn’t get to her. No one was allowed in, and no one was allowed out,” she recalls.

At that time, her eldest daughter was only 15 years old. She was left without her mother - staying with strangers, facing uncertainty that frightened her every day.
“She was just a child… and I simply couldn’t be there for her,” the woman says.

It was more than separation. It was a state of constant anxiety, helplessness, and an inner cry that could not be put into words.

When Support Becomes More Than Assistance

After everything she had endured, she could have withdrawn into herself. Instead, she chose another path - to be among people.

She began bringing together other women around her. Women who were also living through the loss of stability, fear, and exhaustion.

“We even spent time together making crafts. But most importantly, we talked. And that made things easier,” she shares.

These gatherings became a source of strength. A space where people no longer had to carry everything alone.

“Emotionally, it became much easier,” she adds.

Alongside this came practical support as well.
“Your vouchers helped us tremendously. We bought power banks, children’s toys, cleaning supplies, clothing - everything we needed,” the woman says.

These were simple things. But they helped restore a sense of control over life.

From Participant to Community Leader

Over time, her role changed. She was no longer only receiving support - she began creating change herself.

The woman became the leader of an initiative group in her community.
When an opportunity arose to apply for a mini-grant, she did not hesitate.

“Of course, we did it to improve our living conditions,” she explains.
As a result, the community was able to renovate shared spaces, equip a kitchen, and improve everyday living conditions.

But most importantly, people gained a sense that “we can make a difference.”

Moving Forward - and Helping Others

Today, her children are by her side. They are learning, growing, and gradually returning to life.

“I love seeing how she studies. She goes to classes, learns, and works hard,” she says with quiet pride.

Her story is not about perfect circumstances. Nor is it about an easy journey.
It is about how, even in the darkest moments, a person can find the strength not only to endure, but also to support others.
Because sometimes the greatest strength is not simply refusing to break.

It is rising again and becoming a source of support for someone else.

The project “Strengthening the Resilience of Residents of Collective Centers in Kharkiv Region” is implemented by UN Women Ukraine in partnership with Unity Platform NGO. The project is financially supported by the governments of Sweden and Latvia, as well as the national committees of UN Women.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the governments of Sweden and Latvia. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the official position of the United Nations.

This publication was prepared with the financial support of the governments of Sweden and Latvia. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the official position of the United Nations.