A Story of Quiet Courage

Tetiana Mahda (68), a former bank archive worker, had built a life of simple pleasures in Bakhmut. Her small house and beloved garden were her world—a sanctuary of peace that war would brutally disrupt.

When conflict erupted, her home was destroyed in an instant. Crossfire at 4:00 AM shattered her sense of security, forcing her to seek refuge with her son. The subsequent displacement became a journey of survival and uncertainty.

Living in a dilapidated cottage near Lubny, Tetiana faced harsh conditions—an unreliable water source, minimal comforts, and the constant worry of her son, who was called to military service and subsequently went missing.

Despite holding a third-group disability status, Tetiana’s spirit remained unbroken. She persistently filled out applications for assistance, hoping for a chance at stability.

On November 17, 2024, she found hope in Senior Chudo Village’s apartment 17.3B. The carefully designed space offered more than just shelter—it provided a glimmer of peace in her turbulent life.

Her wisdom for younger generations is profound: “Never lose faith in yourself. No matter how difficult life becomes, believing in yourself is the most valuable thing.”

To Dell Loy Hansen, she offers heartfelt gratitude: “Your work is help for the most vulnerable. May God protect you for such deeds.”

Her greatest hope now is simple—to find news of her missing son and to cultivate a small piece of hope in her new home.