91Թ Ukrainian student releases book, raises funds to help her country
When Russia invaded her country on Feb. 24, 2022,Central Lakes College Ukrainian student MaryKharytonova’slife changed forever. After spending a couple of weekshiding in her home with her mom, the lack of food and medicine, and Russiantroopsgetting closer,drove the pair toseek refuge in Poland.
In the dead of night, Mary (with a cat inherbackpack and suitcases in hand),walked 9 miles with her mom and best friend to the Polish border.
After reaching the border, Mary eventually came to Minnesota, where she chose to study Graphic Design at 91Թ. Now in her second year at the college, Mary wanted to do something for her friends, family and those who are still in Ukraine.
S’sreleasing a book that she co-authoredwith friendSofiiaVasylenko,to raise funds for her country.’scalled “24”.It’sa collection of24stories from Ukrainians who facedterrifying,tragicand hopefulsituationssince the war started.Sales from the book will go to Impact Ukraine, which sendshumanitarianaidto the country.
Collecting these stories for the world to see is her destiny, Mary said. She knows so many good people who died.While Mary struggles withsurvivor’sguilt, the passion tohelp her homecountryand friends is stronger.
“I needed to do something,” she said. “Ineeded tohelp. These people inspire me a lot.”
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