Freed from Self‑Destruction and Drugs - Little Polina Got Her Mother Back
Our shelter’s phone rang. This is how many mothers’ stories of change begin. Elena had received our number from a church. Crying, she asked us to help her and her daughter. Two days later she stood at our door with little Polina, carrying her necessary documents, a few belongings, and lots of fear and confusion. Polina clung tightly to her mother.
Drugs and suicide attempts as a teenager
Elena was born into a family of drug addicts. Her mother died of overdose when she was fourteen and her father still uses. Elena grew up in an orphanage without love or support and fell into substance abuse and unstable relationships. In despair, she attempted suicide several times. Her longest relationship was with Polina’s father - until her pregnancy became known. He gave her money for a medical abortion, but the pregnancy was too far along. Elena acquired substances to attempt the abortion herself, but incredibly, a healthy little girl was born.
Arrest, rehab, and the struggle of caring for an infant
Elena continued using drugs, so the authorities intervened. She was arrested and ordered into a one-year rehabilitation program. Two‑month‑old Polina was placed in an orphanage, and Elena secretly hoped someone would adopt her. This did not happen, so after rehab she collected her daughter reluctantly. Everyday life with a small child was overwhelming. The baby felt like a stranger, and Elena did not know how to care for her. Not knowing what to do, she sought help from a nearby church, which referred her to our shelter.
Mother and child get to know each other
Elena and little Polina have now been in our center for four months. Much good has happened. Elena has received Jesus into her life and is free from drugs! She prays for strength to forgive her mother, her father, Polina’s father, and herself. The wounds and guilt still weigh heavily on her. After all, she had once wished to be rid of her child… Elena struggles to believe she can ever be a good mother. At first, she thought about leaving the shelter and abandoning Polina. But with support, comfort, and prayer, she has chosen to stay.
Day by day Elena is learning to respond to her daughter’s needs with love—to hug her, hold her, play with her, and guide her. Step by step she is moving in the right direction!
