On June 20, on the eve of International Widows' Day, a special candle-making master class took place in Dnipro, organized for the wives of fallen Heroes of Donetsk region. The event brought together participants from all over the region, creating a warm atmosphere of mutual support, unity, and recovery.
The initiative was implemented with the support of the head of the Donetsk Regional State Administration, Vadym Filashkin, and organized by the team of the Department of Veteran Policy as part of a systematic effort to support veterans and the families of fallen heroes.
The event was attended by the Deputy Head of the Donetsk Regional State Administration, Oleksandr Shevchenko. He expressed sincere gratitude and words of support to the women: "You are an example of courage and resilience. We remember everyone who gave their life defending the independence of our state. This is the least we can do to honor our fallen Heroes for the peace in our homes and protection. After all, heroes live as long as the memory of them lives on."
The master class was conducted by Victoria Ilienko — the wife of a fallen Defender of Ukraine, a master of soap and candle making. Ms. Victoria is not new to sharing her skills. Her events always carry a therapeutic effect, supporting the psychological health, adaptation, and inner balance of the participants.
Such initiatives are important not only as a form of art therapy but also as a way to remind the families of Heroes: they are not left alone with their pain. Support, dialogue, and joint actions are what help find the strength to live on.
We sincerely thank everyone who participates in such events. We are open to cooperation and new initiatives that help the families of Defenders feel support, care, and solidarity.