Former teacher evacuated from Oleshky dies in Kyiv hospital
Former physical education teacher Olena Pyrozhenko, aged 56, has died in a Kyiv hospital after being evacuated from Oleshky. She had impaired motor functions.
Source: Nadiia Shtanko, acting head of Oleshky Educational Institution No. 4, in a comment to Suspilne Kherson
Details: Olena's husband died under Russian occupation in spring 2026. In late October, Pyrozhenko was evacuated from Oleshky by ambulance as part of a humanitarian mission. However, she died on 6 November.
"Unfortunately, her heart, exhausted by the struggle, stopped beating in a Kyiv hospital. She wanted to live and be close to her loved ones, but the pain she had endured proved too much," Pyrozhenko's former colleagues wrote.
The teacher is remembered as a kind, sincere and considerate person who always kept her word. Her school says she was loved by her pupils. Olena had previously been a professional athlete: she was a Candidate for Master of Sports in athletics and even competed for the USSR national team.
"We will remember her as energetic and smiling, always ready to offer support through advice or a kind word. She taught our children to keep moving forward, never give in to difficulties and stand firm.
We bow our heads in gratitude for your work and your beautiful soul. Rest in peace, dear colleague," the teachers added.
Background:
- In late October, a humanitarian operation enabled the evacuation of nearly 800 residents from Oleshky. Most of them were brought to Ukraine via Russia and Belarus.
- Some of those evacuated are now being discharged from hospitals. The rest continue to receive comprehensive assistance.
- Animal rights activists are also caring for animals evacuated from Oleshky. The UAnimals organisation is looking after 88 animals, including cats and dogs suffering from exhaustion, some of which have concussion or suspected tumours.
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