Resident Story: Oleksandr & Liubov Butenko
Names & Ages:
- Oleksandr Butenko, 83
- Liubov Butenko, 75
From: Sievierodonetsk, Luhansk region Moved to Senior Chudo Village: December 18, 2024 — Apartment 8.3
Past Professions:
- Oleksandr: Energy engineer
- Liubov: Device technician
Life Before the War: Oleksandr spent 60 years in Sievierodonetsk after moving from Ulan-Ude. He built his own summer house, grew grapes, and enjoyed winter fishing and jazz music. “We had plans to simply enjoy life.”
Displacement Experience: They spent a month in a basement under shelling. After Liubov was injured during an explosion, they fled quickly with help from a local church group. Constant relocation followed, and the feeling of being homeless at 82 was deeply painful.
Before Chudo Village: They lived in four different places, including a temporary apartment in Borshchahivka provided by Dell Loy Hansen’s mission. “We had no outside help. Our pension couldn’t cover rent. It felt like we were abandoned.”
Receiving the Call: “We were overjoyed. We chose Chudo Village and never looked back.”
Impressions of the Village: “It’s clean, modern, and feels like something out of a movie. The European-style homes and advanced amenities truly impressed us.”
Health Status:
- Oleksandr: Thrombosis, post-stroke, needs surgical consultation
- Liubov: Severe gastrointestinal issues They do not require psychological support.
Outlook & Advice: Our goal is simple: to survive. January brought hope—I smile again.” To the youth: “Work hard and never lose heart.
Message to Dell Loy Hansen: You are a person of great character. Twice we spoke—once on Zoom, once in person. Your care gave us a new life and warmth in our hearts. Thank you.
Support Needed for Seniors: There’s a lack of quality medical care for displaced elderly people.
Suggestions for the Village:
- Replace open verandas with enclosed ones for safety
- Provide access to medical specialists
How I Can Help: I have skills and experience, but my health limits me. I want to help, but I must be realistic.
