A UKRAINIAN woman living in Letterkenny is in a ‘constant state of worry’ for her family’s safety as Russia continues its cruel and deadly invasion of her home country.
Switlana Pirch (46) has lived in Letterkenny since 2007 with her husband and children but she is originally from Lviv in Western Ukraine, just 70 kilometres from the Polish border.
Her mother, sister, brother-in-law and niece still live in Ukraine and they are determined to remain in their home country despite the ongoing fighting.
Switlana is keeping in contact with her family on the phone and online and so far, their area is safe but they have prepared a bunker in the basement in preparation for attacks.
Speaking to the Donegal News, Switlana explained: “It is very nerve-wracking to be here and watching events unfold. I am watching my country being torn apart and I am constantly worrying that my family will be hurt.
“I message and talk to them several times a day and so far, they are safe and they are lucky that they live in the countryside and have a basement.”
She added: “My family do not want to leave. They have prepared all off their documents in case they have no choice but they will move to the basement if they are in danger. I proposed that they go and stay with my husband’s family in Poland or come to Ireland but they want to stay in Ukraine,” said Switlana.
Switlana was born in Ukraine and spent her early life there. She graduated from university in Ukraine, and at the age of 23 she went to Poland to work as a teacher. She then met her husband and in 2007 they moved to Letterkenny.
She now works as a team leader in LYIT for FM Cleaning Company.
She said she has been blown away by the generosity of local people who have been donating items and money to help support the people of Ukraine.
“I have been so overwhelmed by the support Ukraine has received from the people of Letterkenny.
“Everyone is donating and I have friends that have already gave money to Ukraine and this money will be used to help those who really need it in the eastern part of Ukraine.
“The whole world is supporting Ukraine so that does provide some comfort,” said Switlana.
Today marks day ten of the war with no resolution insight. Switlana is praying the violence comes to an end quickly and her country can recover from this terrible act.
She continued, “I am so sorry this is happening in the 21st century. More than 350 civilians including 14 children have been killed so far and it is heart-breaking to watch.
“I am praying for peace and an end to the war in Ukraine. I was born in Ukraine and my entire childhood was spent there, while Letterkenny is my home now, Ukraine will always be where I am from, my homeland,” she said.
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