In fields of silence, where memories reside, Echoes of laughter, forever our guide. Through valleys of sorrow, their voices still ring, in hearts that remember, their spirits take wing. With courage they marched, through shadows and strife, Leaving behind, a legacy of life. In the whispers of dawn, we feel their embrace, In the starlit nights, we see their grace. War's cruel hand took them away, but in our souls, they forever stay. Heroes' unseen, in the tapestry of time, their love, our beacon, forever will shine.
Roman
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Roman, the director of our partner charity, Spirit of Ukraine, in Lviv. Roman passed away yesterday March 3rd, 2025, in Kursk.
We first met Roman online in the summer of 2022. Initially shy and semi-naive to the world that was yearning for his wisdom, Roman used a translator to convey his messages. His resilience and determination to help his country in the face of a brutal invasion were evident from the beginning.
In December 2022, Roman established Spirit of Ukraine in Lviv, and by January 2023, his charity was officially approved. His dedication and hard work were recognized and admired by all who knew him. In April 2023, we joined Roman in establishing a sister charity in the United States, sharing the same goal of providing aid and support to Ukraine.
Together, we conducted our first fundraisers by August 2023, achieving more than we had ever imagined. Roman's commitment to helping others was unwavering, even when he was called to serve his country. Despite the challenges, he continued to hold auctions and fundraisers, supporting his fellow soldiers.
Roman's final days were spent in Kursk, where he made his last stand. We regret not being there to support him in person, but we are committed to continuing his work and supporting his family, including Petro's wife and children.
Roman's kind words and encouragement will be missed, but his legacy will live on. He showed us how to be better people, and we will carry on his mission in his absence. Roman's spirit will forever be a guiding light for us as we continue to fight for Ukraine.
Rest in peace, Roman. Your impact and dedication will never be forgotten.
"Never Give Up"
"Never Give Up"
On 8 July, a Russian missile strike on Kyiv claimed the life of Svitlana, a 30-year-old pediatric nephrologist at the Okhmatdyt specialized children's hospital. Svitlana was born in Lviv, where she was raised by her aunt after losing her parents. Despite these early hardships, she excelled in her studies, graduating from the Oleksandr Bohomolets National Medical University and completing her medical internship with dedication and promise.
Svitlana’s untimely death is a tragic loss for her patients, colleagues, and all who knew her. She will be laid to rest near her parents at Lviv's Holoskivske Cemetery, as announced by Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Petro, a remarkable individual who played a vital role in supporting our efforts. Petro often went shopping with Roman, the founder of our sister charity in Ukraine, ensuring that the needs of those we served were met. Whenever we required assistance with anything military—be it boots, ear protection, or other critical supplies—Petro was always there to help, offering his expertise and unwavering support.
Tragically, Petro lost his life on his first night at a new job after completing his service in the Ukrainian military. His dedication, generosity, and friendship touched all of us, and his absence leaves an immense void. We are profoundly grateful for every interaction we shared with Petro and for the many lives he impacted through his kindness and commitment. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.
Pete
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pete, who was tragically killed in Ukraine. Pete made an incredible impact on everyone around him, spreading kindness, strength, and hope to countless lives—many of whom he likely never met. His unwavering dedication and compassion left a mark that will never be forgotten.
Pete's legacy of making a difference in the world will continue to inspire all of us. He will be greatly missed, and our thoughts are with his loved ones during this heartbreaking time.