Amidst the incomprehensible tragedy that is the ongoing war in Ukraine, a story of perseverance and motivation is shining through.
Hassan, an 11-year-old boy from Zaporozhye, fled southeastern Ukraine and traveled 750 miles before reaching Slovakia, reports BBC News.
The Little Ukrainian Boy Who Made the Long Journey to Slovakia Alone
The boy was carrying no more than a small plastic bag, a red backpack, and his passport. He also had an emergency phone number written on his hand.
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As Hassan was given food and drink after the long journey, he immediately charmed volunteers with his unbelievable resilience, according to Slovakia's Ministry of Interior.
He won everyone over with his smile, fearlessness and determination worthy of a true hero.
Slovakia's Ministry of Interior
The Boy from Ukraine Who Proved the Power of Perseverance and Resilience
As Hassan took his brave journey across Ukraine, his mother, Julia Pisecka, was being brave at home.
In a video, Pisecka, who is a widow, thanked everyone for taking care of her son and clarified why she let Hassan go on his own.
"Next to my town is a power plant that the Russians are shelling. I couldn't leave my mum - she can't move by herself - so I sent my son to Slovakia," she said.
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Hassan is now one of more than 10 million refugees who have fled their homes since the beginning of the war, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
Surely, this is but a tiny slice of the tragedy - and perseverance - seen in the horrific war in Ukraine. There have probably been dozens of heroic refugee stories like Hassan's. Still, his journey is an important reminder of the need for peace and how resilient we all can be.
More Uplifting News from Goalcast:
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- Russian Soldier Surrenders to Ukrainian People - Their Response Makes Him Cry
- Ukrainian Vet Risks His Life To Rescue Trapped Pets During Russian Invasion
- Woman Fleeing Ukraine War Is Handed 2 Children – And Makes a Harrowing Promise
