A Life Uprooted

Hanna Lysenko (79), a lifelong teacher from Bakhmut, had built a world within the walls of the apartment she and her late husband had carefully purchased. Her life was defined by simple routines—caring for her home, supporting her children in Donetsk, and finding meaning in everyday moments.

The war shattered her carefully constructed world. Initially reluctant to leave, she was persuaded by her sister to evacuate, believing it would be temporary. The journey was heart-wrenching—leaving behind a lifetime of memories, a city that had been her entire world.

Battling multiple health challenges—diabetes, heart failure, and an aneurysm—Hanna navigated displacement with remarkable resilience. Supported by her granddaughter, she moved between temporary accommodations, experiencing the uncertainty that comes with forced relocation.

On December 15, 2024, she found sanctuary in Senior Chudo Village’s apartment 3.1B. The carefully designed space offered more than shelter—it provided a glimmer of hope in her twilight years.

Her wisdom for younger generations is deeply profound: “Treasure your life and value those around you. Remember that nothing happens by chance. Always remember those who help you.”

To Dell Loy Hansen, she offers a heartfelt blessing: “A wonderful mission that makes the world kinder. May God grant him health!”

Her greatest goal now is simple yet powerful—to live, to find peace, and to cherish the unexpected kindness that has carried her through life’s most challenging moments.