\u201cI Couldn\u2019t Hug My Child\u201d: The Story of a Woman Who Survived Occupation and Became a Source of Support for Others<\/p>\n
When your world narrows down to a single thought - whether your child is alive - everything else stops mattering.<\/p>\n
\u201cI was in Kovsharivka, and my daughter was in Sumy region. I couldn\u2019t get to her. No one was allowed in, and no one was allowed out,\u201d she recalls.<\/p>\n
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.
\n\u201cShe was just a child\u2026 and I simply couldn\u2019t be there for her,\u201d the woman says.<\/p>\n
It was more than separation. It was a state of constant anxiety, helplessness, and an inner cry that could not be put into words.<\/p>\n
When Support Becomes More Than Assistance<\/p>\n
After everything she had endured, she could have withdrawn into herself. Instead, she chose another path - to be among people.<\/p>\n
She began bringing together other women around her. Women who were also living through the loss of stability, fear, and exhaustion.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe even spent time together making crafts. But most importantly, we talked. And that made things easier,\u201d she shares.<\/p>\n
These gatherings became a source of strength. A space where people no longer had to carry everything alone.<\/p>\n
\u201cEmotionally, it became much easier,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n
Alongside this came practical support as well.
\n\u201cYour vouchers helped us tremendously. We bought power banks, children\u2019s toys, cleaning supplies, clothing - everything we needed,\u201d the woman says.<\/p>\n
These were simple things. But they helped restore a sense of control over life.<\/p>\n
From Participant to Community Leader<\/p>\n
Over time, her role changed. She was no longer only receiving support - she began creating change herself.<\/p>\n
The woman became the leader of an initiative group in her community.
\nWhen an opportunity arose to apply for a mini-grant, she did not hesitate.<\/p>\n
\u201cOf course, we did it to improve our living conditions,\u201d she explains.
\nAs a result, the community was able to renovate shared spaces, equip a kitchen, and improve everyday living conditions.<\/p>\n
But most importantly, people gained a sense that \u201cwe can make a difference.\u201d<\/p>\n
Moving Forward - and Helping Others<\/p>\n
Today, her children are by her side. They are learning, growing, and gradually returning to life.<\/p>\n
\u201cI love seeing how she studies. She goes to classes, learns, and works hard,\u201d she says with quiet pride.<\/p>\n
Her story is not about perfect circumstances. Nor is it about an easy journey.
\nIt is about how, even in the darkest moments, a person can find the strength not only to endure, but also to support others.
\nBecause sometimes the greatest strength is not simply refusing to break.<\/p>\n
It is rising again and becoming a source of support for someone else.<\/p>\n
The project \u201cStrengthening the Resilience of Residents of Collective Centers in Kharkiv Region\u201d 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.
\nThis 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>","protected":false},"featured_media":4838,"template":"","class_list":["post-4837","success-stories","type-success-stories","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n