“My story of war is not about fear, but about a thirst for a free life”

From the beginning of the war, Iryna knew that she wouldn’t leave. She was caught by fear every time she heard air raid alarms, when she heard explosions. Her body went numb, but her brain told her: You will manage it. And so she did. This is her story.

My goal was to get myself together and start to act. I have finished the 3rd year of the clinical psychology faculty and have started to participate actively in volunteer organizations and support the Military Force of Ukraine.

Also, I have finished studying in psychological support service. And now I am helping victims of sexual violence committed by russian soldiers.

The story about having a weekend is over, for the half year of the war I have never rested. Emotional burnout? Apathy? Depression?

Constant fear is a new norm in my life

Constant fear for my life and the lives of the closest ones now is a new norm in my life. I believe that the war will be over soon and we will definitely win and rest again in a free, peaceful Ukraine.

My story of war is not about some of my achievements or a psychological state, it is about a thirst for a free life. About willing to live even under explosions, willing to love freely and helping those who need it. And this help is needed by every Ukrainian, including myself.

I am very grateful to Munich Kyiv Queer that you don’t forget us and support us in such complicated times. I am truly thankful that you stand with us side by side and help us to return to the peaceful sky. We will definitely meet and celebrate our victory.

You can help here:

Individual help

Munich Kyiv Queer has its own fundraising campaign via www.paypal.me/ConradBreyer to support people in Ukraine with whom we have worked closely over the past ten years. They are our friends and partners. We know them personally and we miss them. We can help fast, directly and unbureaucratically.

Help for LGBTIQ* organisations

To support LGBTIQ* in Ukraine we have helped set up the Alliance Queer Emergency Aid Ukraine, in which around 40 German LGBTIQ* Human Rights organisations are involved. All these groups have access to very different Human Rights organisations in Ukraine and use funds for urgently needed care or evacuation of queer people. Every donation helps and is used 100 percent to benefit queer people in Ukraine. Donate here

Questions? www.MunichKyivQueer.org/donations