We went out to protest with my son. At first, these were solidarity actions, women's chains, and marches. Then – a whole movement in our city. I made posters, sewed flags from sheets, organized people: every day, every evening, we went out, supported the striking workers in factories, doctors, and teachers.
My son was my main assistant, he dreamed of being a military man since childhood and told me: «Mom, during the next elections in 2025 I will serve. But I want to swear allegiance to the people, not the president. We must do something». And we went out into the street – together. For our activism, we began to be persecuted.
One night, security forces came to my house. I heard one of them say: «She's home, the bitch. Break down the window and pack her up». My son and I got out into the garden, climbed over the fence into the cemetery, and stayed there until morning. It was a scary place, but I felt safer than at home. After that, I sent him to relatives, and I continued to organize actions myself. At the end of each one, I would ask: «Who can I stay with overnight?» That's how another month of protests went by – in other people's apartments, but free.
My last rally took place on August 30, 2020. There were harsh arrests then. I was in a column with protesters, called my son: «Pack your things and documents». On September 4, 2020, we left Belarus. There was only one suitcase for two and $300. A new life began in Poland – rallies, actions, helping others. We did not give up.
But health turned out not to be eternal. After everything I had been through, I started having serious problems – numbness and failure of the left side of my body. Doctors diagnosed me with inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. I can't work because my body is exhausted. My son is studying at a military technical school in Poland – he is still pursuing his dream, no matter what.
I am currently undergoing treatment in Warsaw. We are on the verge – there is a catastrophic lack of money. I am asking for your support so that we can survive this difficult period, which will last for about another four months. I am not broken and believe that help, as in 2020, depends on us ourselves. Thank you to all Belarusians and caring people. To everyone who helps.
Long live Belarus!
How much is needed?
€4600
– 9000 zł (approximately €2100) – rent for 3 months
– 3900 zł (approximately €900) – household expenses and essential items
– 4500 zł (approximately €1050) – food and utilities
– 2400 zł (approximately €550) – medication and rehabilitation