Iryna and Viktor Kovalchuk knew what war was long before the full-scale invasion. Once, Iryna waited for her future husband, Viktor, to return from Afghanistan. After returning, it took him a whole month to start speaking again. Over time, the family healed, and they built a life together, eventually adopting two children. It seemed that the war had forever remained in the past.

However, on February 24, 2022, it reminded them of its presence again. The war came into their home. A small village, once peaceful and cozy, was under constant shelling. When a shell hit a nearby street, the Kovalchuks realized they had to get the children to safety.

That day, they hurriedly packed the essentials and left for the unknown. Even in safety, the constant anxiety remained. The children kept asking when they would go back home, but Iryna had no answer, as the pain was too deep for words.

Thankfully, the family found refuge in our Hope and Healing Center, where they could receive psychological support. During the first session, Iryna couldn’t hold back her emotions. Together with psychologist Valentyna Olefir, they discussed the feelings of loss caused by leaving their home and the forced relocation. The focus was that adaptation takes time, and it’s important to allow oneself to experience this period.

Gradually, Iryna and Viktor began to look toward the future. “We’ve been through so much, we can handle this too,” Viktor said. He and his wife began to spend more time with their children. Iryna felt she didn’t have to fight alone for the first time. “We were used to carrying everything on our shoulders, but now I know we’re not alone,” she shares.

Today, the family is starting a new chapter. They still miss their home. But they speak with confidence of the future: “We are together, and that’s what matters. We will rebuild our home, and love and support in our family are things no one can take away.”

This story is about the power of support. And how important it is to reach out for help in time. How adaptation is a long journey, but it’s a path everyone can walk.
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These consultations are part of the Comprehensive Psychological Assistance for Children and Families Affected by War program, implemented under the USAID project Building a Sustainable Public Health System, supported by Pact. The initiative provides psychological support to displaced adults and children who have experienced trauma.