The impossible became possible

For Ukrainian-born Stanislav, the journey of aliyah—immigration to Israel—felt like “jumping onto the last wagon of a departing train.”

Just over two years ago, at a heavy stage of the war in Ukraine, Stanislav and his wife received devastating news: their only daughter had been diagnosed with cancer and required urgent, intensive treatment. Over the next year and a half, the girl endured an exhausting cycle of medical tests, chemotherapy, and experimental medications. Despite their best efforts, her condition worsened.

Facing the deterioration of their daughter’s health, the family made a heartbreaking decision. Stanislav’s wife and daughter would go to Israel for treatment, while Stanislav—of military age and unable to leave Ukraine—would stay behind.

The separation was very hard. Would Stanislav ever see his daughter again? Would he be drafted into the military? Could his wife manage their daughter’s care, including a major spinal surgery, alone in a foreign country? Lots of questions, lots of uncertainty…

In Israel, their daughter endured significant challenges, and she was officially recognized as having a first-degree disability. This status granted Stanislav the legal right to leave Ukraine and reunite with his family. But time was running out—his visa was set to expire on July 17! A few times the door was shut before him, he was sent away, some more papers were needed, but Stanislav didn’t give up, he tried again and again.

Stanislav and the rest of the group that was scheduled to leave for Israel. | Photo: C4I Ukraine

Finally, with every document in order, Stanislav was ready to leave for Israel. But then, another crushing blow: he was stopped at the Ukrainian border and refused passage into Moldova. He was forced to step out of the van while the rest of the group continued on. His flight to Israel was scheduled for that very evening. We wondered if he would ever make it, or that he would have to go back again. Stanislav wasn’t giving up, he said: “I prayed the only way I knew how—and hoped.”

Against all odds, after more phone calls, rechecks, and negotiations with customs and army officials, Stanislav was cleared to leave. He made it to the airport—just in time. It all felt like “jumping onto the last wagon of a departing train”, but he was finally on his way to Israel to be reunited with his wife and daughter.

Stanislav with his wife and daughter in Israel. | Photo: C4I

‘Pass through, pass through the gates! Prepare the way for the people. Build up, build up the highway! Remove the stones. Raise a banner for the nations.’ Isaiah 62:10

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