Halyna Sukhaniuk

From: Illinka village, Donetsk region

Finding Safety While Son Defends Ukraine

Halyna Sukhaniuk lived through terrifying conditions in her village of Illinka, enduring constant shelling while staying in her partially destroyed home. It was her son, currently fighting on the front lines, who filled out an application for her to live in Miracle Village. Volunteers eventually evacuated her to this safe haven, away from the dangers of the war zone.

Her home in Illinka was damaged during the fighting, making it uninhabitable and unsafe to return to.

“Rehabilitation sessions with a psychologist helped me overcome the memories of the past, ” Halyna shares. “The medical care provided, conversations with neighbors and other residents of the village — all of this contributed to improving my emotional and psychological state. I am content and at peace now. I’m grateful to Hansen, the founder of Miracle Village, and his administration.”

Finding purpose in activities that connect her to her rural roots, Halyna volunteers with the garden group. “Coming from a village myself, this work feels natural to me, ” she explains. While her son continues to defend Ukraine on the front lines, Halyna has found safety and community, allowing both mother and son to focus on their respective roles during this difficult time for their country.