Help for my Ukrainian aunt

Shchaslyvoho Rizdva/Schastlivogo Rozhdestva/Meri Kirihimete/Merry Christmas,

Dear friends and family, just before Christmas I would like to share a quick update on my aunt Natasha and share a quick message from her.

The constant bombings of infrastructure means that there's power for only 4-6 hours a day. The shops operate mostly on cash because of that. The ATMs are not working properly due to power cuts and simply lack of cash. Last time my aunt had to queue to get money for 3 day. Days, not hours.

But through the horror you learn to appreciate small things. Currently Kramatorsk is in a safer zone thanks to Ukrainian army. This means my aunt can return to her flat in the New Year, as things are a bit safer.

Your help and support was so important to get my aunt and her friends through this horrible time. If the situation stabalises, we are hoping to put new windows in her flat, that have been broken during the bombings. But, those are hopes for the future.

We don't know what is ahead but we have learned to appreciate every day as it comes as well as the kindness of people around us. My family and I thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

Finally, my aunt has asked me to translate this message to you all:

"I am very grateful to people who responded to my plight in which I found myself because of the damned war. I remember how you told me about it, I cried. People living in a prosperous country, where life brings joy, responded so genially and warmly, took part in my fate. The call for help has been sincerely answered. Thank you all, it helps me to go on knowing that there are so many kind people who are ready to support strangers on the other side of the world. I am very grateful, I try to hold on, I try to survive and meet the victory. I want to hug you all and express all my feelings!"

Have a wonderful and safe holiday. "Thank you" does not seem enough of a word to express our gratitude.

Polina, Elena and Natasha