First and foremost, I want to say that there are people out there who need help far more than we do. I feel bad even for writing this. If you’re deciding between helping us and supporting someone who is struggling to find food or make it through another day, please choose them. I could never forgive myself if they missed out on aid because of me.

But if you’re still reading, my name is Sasha, and I want to build a family for the woman I love. Let me share our story.

Sylwia is from Little Rock, Arkansas. She’s one of the strongest and most resilient people I’ve ever known, and here’s why. Her mother became partially paralyzed after giving birth to her, which made everyday activities like walking and speaking incredibly difficult. Despite these challenges, Sylwia became her mother’s best friend and personal interpreter, helping others understand her speech. Her mother was her rock, the person she turned to after bad days, and the foundation of everything Sylwia values.

When Sylwia turned 18, her world changed forever. Her mother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Despite her incredible strength and courage in navigating life’s challenges as a partially paralyzed woman, this was a battle she couldn’t win. Watching the person you love most in the world lose the fight against cancer is devastating. It leaves a void so deep that it’s hard to put into words. I won’t pretend to fully understand the pain Sylwia endured—I’m fortunate to still have both of my parents—but I can see the strength it has taken for her to carry on.

Losing her mother led Sylwia to a profound decision: she wanted to help others avoid the pain and loss she had experienced. She became a researcher at a Breast Cancer Institute, co-authoring numerous scientific articles over two years. Later, she chose to pursue medicine, earning a spot in medical school—where we eventually met.

Before we even went on our first date, my friends and family already knew all about the kind and beautiful woman in my group. Somehow, I got lucky, and Sylwia gave me a chance. Now, six years later, we’ve built a life together. She leaded her program, managing 35 people with incredible care and dedication. With an I did my best to support her however I can—helping with translations, organizing people for events, and more.

Sylwia helped me through my first scientific conference, something I never imagined experiencing as someone who grew up in a small village in Ukraine. She’s the reason I’ve found the courage to grow beyond my fears.

Together, we’ve had incredible experiences, like two months in Lithuania through Erasmus+ internship that she got us. Sylwia has always been my anchor, encouraging me despite my insecurities. Growing up where I did, I’ve struggled with confidence and sometimes stutter when speaking. Though she never points it out, I know I embarrass her. But I’m working on it, and I’m determined to overcome it.

Sharing this story means so much to me. All I ask is for a little help on this journey so I can give her the life she truly deserves. She’s my everything, and I want to create a future as beautiful and strong as she is!

Thank you for taking the time to read this.