Episode 3 - Lyudmila
Lyudmila is a 72-year-old lady forced to flee from war. Her precarious physical condition and age made it more difficult to overcome such a great trauma, but thanks to meeting the volunteers of the Tzu Chi Foundation she found a safe place and new hope.
What are your first memories related to your arrival in Poland?
I am Lyudmila. I come from the eastern part of Ukraine. I am 72 years old and my hometown is Zaporozhye. I have lived there for more than 50 years.
Before the war, there was an opportunity and I liked to travel. Poland is one of the countries whose inhabitants have provided invaluable assistance to Ukrainians.
What were the biggest difficulties and how were they overcome (or not)?
The biggest difficulty I encountered was related to the place of residence. I was very lucky. I met the volunteers of the Tzu Chi Foundation in Warsaw. They helped me with placement in the Camillian house in Lomianki. Father Roman and the guests welcomed me warmly. Unfortunately, my health and physical condition do not allow me to find a job.
How do you spend your time in Lomianki?
I teach mathematics to some of the children in the house. I participate in projects carried out by the volunteers of the Tzu Chi Foundation: I help those in need, there have been visits, a theater project, etc.
How do you look to your future?
In the future I would like to return home and spend my old age among relatives and friends, but for now "hopeless, I hope".
Can you tell us about an episode or story that particularly touched you?
During a visit, I met an 11-year-old boy who, after an injury, was learning to walk on his knees. His thirst for life and his desire to overcome illness amazed me and gave me confidence in the future of Ukraine.
You can find the previous episode HERE.
