Panas and Nadiya Dobriev: Rebuilding Hope

Names: Panas Dobriev (65, former electrician) and Nadiya Dobreva (62, former poultry worker and sanitary worker)

Hometown: Yakovlivka Village, Bakhmut District

Before the war, Panas and Nadiya lived a rich, fulfilling life in Yakovlivka. Their days were filled with tending to their home, garden, and livestock. Family was their greatest joy — caring for parents, helping their children, and cherishing moments with their grandchildren. They loved walking in the forest, reading books, and listening to music.

The war shattered their peaceful existence. In 2022, they were forced to evacuate during bombardments, leaving behind everything they had built. With two elderly relatives and barely any possessions, they escaped their home, which had been hit by shells. The journey was traumatic — filled with fear, pain, and uncertainty.

For two and a half years, they lived in their son’s friends' apartment, feeling displaced and hopeless. Their stability was gone, and their future seemed uncertain.

Then came the unexpected — an invitation to the Senior Chudo Village. On January 30, 2025, they moved into apartment 17, finding a new sense of purpose. Panas, dealing with health challenges including a stroke and hypertension, and Nadiya, still resilient, discovered a supportive community.

Their advice to younger generations is simple yet profound: “Value family, support each other in difficult times. Be kind, honest, and help those in need. Peace is the most valuable thing we have.”

They speak with deep gratitude about Dell Loy Hansen’s mission, seeing it as a lifeline for displaced people. Nadiya hopes to volunteer in the upcoming hospice, while both dream of rebuilding their lives with dignity and hope.