Praskoviya Khalyava

The life of 89-year-old Praskovia Khalyava has been full of trials, but she has never lost faith in her own strength, remaining brave and kind to the people around her.

Most of her life, Praskovia Semenivna lived in Pokrovsk, Donetsk region. As a child, she was forced to mature faster than her peers. When she was 10 years old, her father passed away, and at 14, her mother. After completing 7 years of schooling, she was taken in by her older sister, who always supported, protected, and helped her get back on her feet.

At the age of 15, she took her first job as a secretary-typist. Over the course of 42 years of work, she constantly developed, learned, and gradually took on new positions.

Together with her husband, Praskovia Semenivna raised a daughter, but the cruel disease of cancer took her life, and a few years later, her son-in-law tragically died. The elderly woman has no close family left, except for her only grandson, who is building his life in Kyiv and will soon turn 21. She speaks about him with love, often calling to check on his affairs or give advice.

In 2014, shelling made Praskovia Semenivna realize the danger around her for the first time. In 2022, the situation worsened. Life under constant explosions, with no electricity or water, became unbearable. That’s when she decided to leave her home.

For over a year, the shelter has been her new home. Here, she found what had been lacking in the last few years — peace, protection, and the warmth of human kindness.

“In the shelter, I feel very good; the people here are kind and attentive. Everything I need is here — warmth, food, and simply kind words. I am safe here, and that is the most important thing,” says the woman.

Praiskovia Semenivna believes in Ukraine’s victory and dreams of peace. Her words:

“I want the war to end as soon as possible” — this is a cry from the heart that resonates in the hearts of many.