An 11-year-old Ukrainian refugee girl named Vlada, living in Rotterdam, is battling PTSD following a traumatic incident in a shelter after fleeing the war in Ukraine. This has significantly impacted her well-being, causing anxiety and fear, and requiring ongoing psychological treatment.

Vlada’s mother, Olena Kotenko, recounts the challenges her daughter faces in adjusting to life in the Netherlands. Vlada’s PTSD manifests as a constant feeling of unsafety, even in their new home. A simple unlocked door can trigger panic, and she struggles with being alone. The family sought refuge in the Netherlands believing it would be a safe haven.

Before the war, Vlada was an energetic and active child, always climbing and playing. However, the trauma of the war and the subsequent incident in the Rotterdam shelter have changed her. The family fled their home near Kyiv during freezing temperatures, seeking shelter from bombings. Vlada remembers the terrifying moment when a military plane flew directly towards their car, unsure if it was Russian or Ukrainian.

Despite her struggles, Vlada exhibits glimpses of her former self. She attends school, speaks Dutch, and enjoys typical teenage activities like eating ice cream and looking at photos. She dreams of working in a cat cafe and cherishes memories of her pets left behind in Ukraine. Olena is doing everything she can to provide Vlada with the support and care she needs to heal and rebuild her life.

The family’s journey highlights the hidden wounds of war and the challenges faced by refugees seeking safety and stability in a new country. Vlada’s story is one of resilience and the ongoing struggle to overcome trauma.