Albina had travelled from Mykolaiv to the Kherson region in Ukraine with her mother to celebrate her grandmother’s birthday. Her father had stayed behind in Mykolaiv. They spent the night there and were preparing for the celebration the next morning when shelling began. One of the shells struck the house directly, destroying it.
In the moment of the explosion, Albina’s mother shielded her daughter with her own body. She did not survive. Because of her mother’s actions, Albina lived – but she sustained severe injuries and was rushed to hospital.
In the first days after the attack, she did not yet know that her mother had died. Her father struggled to find the strength to tell her the devastating news. During this extremely difficult time, hospital psychologists supported Albina in coping with the initial shock and trauma.
Immediate and ongoing support
At the end of November 2024, SOS Children’s Villages provided essential medicines and hygiene supplies and gave Albina a laptop so she could continue her education from the hospital, as well as vouchers for clothing and footwear. When she returned home, she had regular visits from a nurse to assist with wound care and medical follow-up.
Understanding that Victor had to dedicate himself fully to caring for his daughter, cash support was provided to help the family manage until state social assistance could be arranged. We also ensured that he could stay with Albina during her hospital treatment.
Over the past few years, Albina has undergone complex medical treatment and rehabilitation. With support from SOS Children’s Villages, she has completed four courses of physical rehabilitation. She has received assistance with purchasing medicines and orthopaedic equipment, as well as a wheelchair that enables her to move independently.
Today, Albina continues her treatment and a long rehabilitation journey still lies ahead. SOS Children’s Villages will remain by her side, ready to support her every step of the way.
