Lyudmila Panska

“Upon arriving at the shelter, I slept through the whole night for the first time and couldn’t believe that it was possible to sleep without the air raid siren, not waking up in the middle of the night, and not having to run anywhere,” recalls Lyudmyla Panska.

67-year-old Ms. Lyudmyla is the mother of sons who defend Ukraine. She is always in touch with them, constantly awaiting the message: “Mom, everything is fine! I love you!”

She devoted many years of her life to medicine, working in the intensive care unit in Ochakiv. Even at the shelter, she was always there for those who needed help – alongside the staff, she supported elderly people during viral epidemics.

However, medicine was not her only strength. Ms. Lyudmyla is a skilled housekeeper, and her baking won the hearts of all the shelter residents. Cakes, pastries, homemade treats – all of these never failed to delight anyone.

In March 2024, Ms. Lyudmyla left the shelter. She went to stay with acquaintances to care for their seriously ill relative.

Even after her departure, Ms. Lyudmyla is remembered here with warmth. Always smiling and friendly, sometimes quiet and thoughtful, she lived in prayer for her dearest – her sons, all the defenders, and Ukraine. Her sincere faith in victory left a lasting mark in the hearts of those who had the opportunity to speak with her, even once.