Irpin, Ukraine — In the embattled town of Irpin near Kyiv, the clamor of bombs and bullets has become a relentless backdrop to daily life. For the elderly residents of the “Comfortable Life” nursing home, the conflict presents a grim choice: stay without electricity and heat or brave the perilous journey to safety.
Olena, a dedicated caregiver at the facility, recalls the heart-wrenching decision to evacuate. “We had no heat, no light. The sounds of explosions were getting closer each day,” she says. “Our residents couldn’t move freely. Some are in wheelchairs; others are bedridden. Leaving was a monumental task, but we couldn’t abandon them.”
Without an established safe corridor out of Irpin, the staff had to navigate through dangerous territories. “We formed a human chain to help them across debris and rubble,” describes Sergiy, another staff member. “It was a race against time and terror.”
Valeria, whose mother is a resident, joined the evacuation efforts. “Seeing the fear in my mother’s eyes was devastating,” she shares. “But the determination of the staff inspired us all. Together, we faced the unknown.”
The group’s journey was fraught with challenges. Checkpoints, sudden shelling, and the sheer physical toll of assisting those with limited mobility made every step arduous. “We took shelter whenever we could,” Olena continues. “Sometimes in abandoned buildings, sometimes in makeshift bunkers. The hope of reaching safety kept us going.”
After days of travel, the group finally reached a safer region. Local volunteers and international aid organizations have since provided support. “We’re safe now, but many remain,” Valeria notes. “We pray for all who are still trapped and hope for a peaceful resolution soon.”
Their story is a poignant reminder of the war’s impact on the most vulnerable. As global attention focuses on strategic developments, these personal battles underscore the human cost of conflict.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
