WHEN THE PAST DOES NOT DEFINE THE FUTURE: FROM ADDICTION TO A NEW LIFE — THE STORY OF 22-YEAR-OLD BOHDANA AND HER CHILDREN

22-year-old Bohdana has been living at the Mother and Child Home of the Christian Mission “New Life” for nine months, together with her children — two-year-old Marat and Alisa, who will turn four in February. She raises her children on her own, as their father does not take part in their lives.

Bohdana has left behind a difficult period marked by addiction and challenging circumstances. She found the strength to ask for help and has walked a path of recovery. She has overcome her dependence on drugs, alcohol, and smoking, and has also left relationships in which she was not valued. This became the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

Today, Bohdana is one of the active participants in the life of the Mother and Child Home. She prepares meals for the residents, takes part in the “Social Bread” project, sings in the church choir, and actively participates in church ministries together with the youth.

God has an important place in her new life. Bohdana has been baptized, continues to grow spiritually, and devotes herself to serving the Lord. She has found a new sense of purpose, grown stronger in her faith, and now looks to the future with hope.

Her children’s lives have also changed. Alisa and Marat are growing up surrounded by love, care, and peace. They attend Sunday school and are learning about God’s Word. Bohdana is doing everything she can to give her children a happy childhood and a loving environment in which to grow.

Bohdana’s story is a testimony that the past does not have to define the future. Today, she is rebuilding her life, serving others, and taking one step at a