The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games became a momentous occasion for Ukrainian para-badminton athletes, Oksana Kozyna and Oleksandr Chyrkov, who experienced a heartwarming reunion with Svetlana Shabalina, a woman they consider a maternal figure from their childhood in a Dnipro orphanage. Shabalina’s presence at the Games was unexpected yet profoundly impactful, as she had recently relocated to Sweden for advanced medical treatment. During her time in Sweden, she serendipitously reconnected with Chyrkov at a nearby training camp, leading to discussions about attending the Paralympics in Paris, which materialized into her attending the event to support her former charges.

Kozyna expressed her astonishment at seeing Shabalina, stating, “I did not recognize her at first. Then, when I recognized her, I just could not believe it… I was so surprised and so happy to see her.” The influence of Shabalina was profound; she played a pivotal role in the upbringing of Kozyna and Chyrkov during their formative years in the orphanage, which was home to them after their families abandoned them due to their disabilities.

Kozyna’s disability, originating at birth with the absence of a fibula, led to her abandonment, while Chyrkov’s life altered dramatically after a car accident at the age of eight, which resulted in significant injuries and left him in the hospital for an extended period. Through sheer resilience, both athletes have emerged as symbols of perseverance, overcoming their past adversities to compete at the highest levels of sport.

Today, Oksana Kozyna is recognized as the first Ukrainian Para badminton world champion, having claimed victory in the SL3 singles category at the 2022 Para-Badminton World Championships in Tokyo. She received further accolades as the European Para Badminton Player of the Year, highlighting her remarkable prowess in the sport.

While both athletes competed robustly at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, they ultimately faced challenges that prevented them from earning medals. Chyrkov experienced mixed results, managing one victory against New Zealand’s Wojtek Czyz, although he was unable to advance beyond the pool stage. Conversely, Kozyna reached the quarterfinals and fought valiantly, but ultimately secured a fourth-place finish after competing fiercely for a medal.

Despite the absence of podium finishes, the journeys of Oksana Kozyna and Oleksandr Chyrkov resonate powerfully with advocates for individuals with disabilities, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their narratives exemplify unparalleled courage, determination, and the enduring impact of supportive figures like Svetlana Shabalina throughout their lives.
Their legacies will continue to inspire future generations within Ukraine and beyond, reinforcing the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the profound influence of compassionate mentorship.

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