My name is Katsiaryna, I’m 24. I’m an artist, currently living in Vilnius, and I teach painting to children. I used to study at a university in Hrodna and was part of a strike committee. Back then, so much seemed possible.
Then came arrests, interrogations, the threat of prison. One time, at a district police station, there was an attempt to rape me. The university handed over a pile of personal information about me to the anti-extremism unit, and I was forced to sign a “cooperation” agreement. I was told directly: if you don’t sign, you’ll get at least seven years. I signed. After that, the person who was supposedly assigned to “supervise” me started openly harassing me. I fled.
Now I’m in Vilnius. I’ve been doing my best to start a new life—working, teaching, painting. But my health gave out. A few years ago, I was prescribed the wrong treatment for bipolar disorder, which led to serious complications: inflammation, cysts, adhesions. I’ve had two surgeries. The most recent was just on March 29. After it, I could barely walk and was constantly in pain. I’m still struggling.
Doctors say the recovery will take at least two months. During this time, I’m unable to work. My family members can’t support me. I have no money for rent, medication, or even food. I am literally left on my own.
It’s very hard for me to ask for help. But I have no other choice right now. If you can help me get back on my feet literally, I’ll be endlessly grateful.
Thank you.
Fundraising goal
€2100
€800 – rent for two months
€500 – medication, treatments, and hygiene products
€500 – food and basic expenses
€300 – transportation and emergency costs