By Olena Shulha
Sometimes, one conversation can be the start of an amazing journey.
On March 31, 2025, Pavlo and I were contacted by Valeriy and Iryna Kuznetsov. The Kuznetsov’s wanted to welcome a child into their family, but like so many others, they didn’t know where to start. That one conversation led to another and another.
We spoke with them often, either on the phone or on Zoom. We explained the process, answered their questions, and shared our experiences. And step by step, they moved forward with the process. Over the next year, they worked with local services to complete the necessary documents, the required training, and procedures.
On August 7, 2026—my birthday—I received a very special gift in the form of a message from Valeriy and Iryna.
“We now have two wonderful children in our family.”
The Kuznetsov’s have welcomed a nine-year-old boy and a one-year-old girl into their family. Now, these children have a safe place to call home with all the hugs and love they can ever ask for.
Valeriy and Iryna thanked us for our guidance and support as they navigated this journey. And once again, I find myself thinking about how important those simple conversations can be, especially in the very beginning. How important it is for families to be able to ask questions and receive reliable information, to have support as they take that first step.
Because we never know where those conversations may lead. One day you may receive a special message saying, “Our family has grown thanks to you.”
We wish the Kuznetsov family nothing but happiness, and hope for many more stories like this across Ukraine.
Because every child deserves more than just a place to live. Every deserves a loving family of their own.
