A few weeks ago, while conditions were starting to worsen in Ukraine, a brave 11-year-old boy, Hassan Pisecká, fled the country with nothing but his backpack, passport, and a phone number written on his hand.

He traveled 750 miles alone. He successfully reached the Slovakian border, where he was instantly taken care of – given warm food and water.

His mother, Julia Pisecka Volodymyrivna, had to stay behind because her mother couldn’t travel so far. Slovakian officials welcomed Hassan with open arms; they instantly saw the number on his hand and called his mother to tell her Hasan was safe. The emotional toll of separation was evident in the heartbreaking farewell footage in Ukraine, capturing the profound sorrow etched on their faces. As Hassan began his new life in Slovakia, the weight of his mother’s sacrifice lingered in his heart, a constant reminder of the home he had to leave behind. Yet, the kindness of his new community offered a glimmer of hope amid the chaos, inspiring him to forge ahead for both of their sakes.

Soon after Hasan, his siblings also reached Slovakia safely. After a few weeks of Hasan and his siblings being in Slovakia, his mother finally arrived. She spoke to The Sun about it:

“The train ride was very difficult. Hundreds were crammed in a single car. But we had to escape so our family could be back together.”

“I’d like to thank everyone from my heart. We have to start from scratch. We lost everything we’ve had but we’re healthy.”

After making a difficult trip herself, his mother was finally able to embrace Hassan & his siblings after weeks of being without them. The reunion was filled with joy and relief, especially as she recounted the heroic actions of a young boy who had helped others along the way. His brave decisions inspired everyone in the community and reminded them of the strength found in resilience. In that moment, they all knew that together they could overcome any challenge that lay ahead.