Motivated by Love

When this mum Galina was five years old, her father left the family. Galina and her older sister were deeply affected by his absence, and their mother, overwhelmed by the challenges of becoming a single mum, brought them up very strictly. Galina was often withdrawn and struggled with bullying.

When she was twelve, she and her sister were transferred to a school attended by many troubled teenagers. Although the girls had done nothing wrong, there were simply not enough places available at other schools. It was there that Galina was exposed to a world of crime and drugs. What began as experimentation eventually developed into addiction.

As she grew older, Galina found herself in relationships where drugs were readily available and her addiction was encouraged rather than challenged. When she became a mother, she desperately wanted a different life for her children.

There were times when she was able to stop using drugs. During her pregnancy with her son, Galina remained free from drugs for almost two years. She had proved to herself that change was possible.

But without long-term support or a stable environment, old influences and unhealthy relationships repeatedly drew her back.

Over the years, Galina experienced further trauma and serious health problems. Her addiction affected every area of her life, including her relationship with her children who were removed from her care. Galina longed for a different future. Several months ago, she reached out for help.

She was offered the opportunity to come to our Women's Crisis Centre, bringing with her the only child left in her care - her youngest son Grigory.

Here, Galina has somewhere safe to stay while she goes through the process of rebuilding her life.

For Galina, this has been an opportunity to discover that her past does not define her future. She is supported without judgement and she is encouraged to believe that her life has value - that with God's help, change is possible.

This opportunity is not only important for Galina.

Beside her is her little boy.

At just two years old, he is at the very beginning of his life. And, as his mum receives the support she needs to rebuild her life, he too has the opportunity to grow up surrounded by greater safety, stability and care.

Today, Galina is taking the first steps towards a different future, not only for herself, but for her little boy too.

Read more about the Women's Crisis Centre here