A 98-year-old woman in Ukraine recently made headlines for her remarkable escape from Russian-occupied territory. Lidia Stepanivna Lomikovska, along with her family, decided to flee the frontline town of Ocheretyne in the eastern Donetsk region as Russian troops entered the area and fighting escalated.
During the chaotic departure, Lidia became separated from her son and two daughters-in-law, who took back routes while she chose to stay on the main road. With only a pair of slippers, a cane, and a piece of wood for support, Lidia embarked on a grueling journey, walking almost 10 kilometers alone without food and water to reach Ukrainian lines.
Despite falling twice and having to rest along the way, Lidia's determination to keep moving forward never wavered. Ukrainian soldiers eventually spotted her walking along the road and handed her over to the 'White Angels,' a police group that evacuates citizens from the front line.
After being taken to a shelter for evacuees, Lidia was reunited with her family. Her resilience and courage in the face of adversity have captured the hearts of many, with one of Ukraine's largest banks announcing plans to purchase a house for her.
In a touching gesture, the bank's chief executive expressed solidarity with Lidia, vowing to provide her with a home until peace is restored in the region. Lidia's harrowing experience serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the strength that can emerge in the most challenging circumstances.
