Lenochka's story begins before the war – with a nearly fatal car accident that left her disabled and dependent on a wheelchair. And yet, sustained by her optimism and love for life, she not only survived but built a life she treasured, in a home carefully adapted to her needs.

Then came Mariupol.

In the winter of 2022, Lenochka and nearly 200 others sheltered in basements for 18 days under relentless shelling and explosions. Through what can only be described as a miracle, she escaped the besieged city – but her home was completely destroyed, and her wheelchair lost in the chaos.

The journey to safety was long and harrowing. Constant bombardments. Repeated evacuations to bomb shelters. An exhausting train ride to Kyiv where, despite being in a wheelchair, she was mistakenly assigned a top bunk – until kind strangers stepped in and exchanged seats so she could travel safely.

At the Kyiv train station, her family finally reunited – tears, embraces, and profound relief. Given the ongoing war and the immense challenges facing people with mobility needs in Ukraine, the family made the difficult decision to arrange Lenochka's transfer abroad for continued care and specialized treatment.

With the support of our community, Mending Roots helped fund a new wheelchair to replace the one she lost, and the critical medications she requires ongoing. These were not luxuries – they were lifelines.

Her sister shared this message with everyone who helped:

"Thank you to everyone who contributed to helping my Lenochka. Her journey has been unimaginably difficult, but your kindness and support have given her hope and the strength to keep going."

The road ahead remains long. But thanks to the compassion of donors and supporters like you, Lenochka is no longer walking it alone.