Kateryna experienced the war in Irpin. Her husband left immediately to defend the city while she stayed at home with their children.  From the first hours of the conflict, explosions were heard. Her husband urged Kateryna to go down to the basement as the city was already under Russian shelling.  In total, 86 people sought refuge in the basement. When evacuation was announced, Kateryna helped organize the departure for those who wanted to leave the city.  She stood on the platform for three and a half hours, saying goodbye to her neighbours and friends. However, she chose to stay behind to return to her children,  believing that the city would survive.  Unfortunately, the war forced her to change her plans. Irpin faced heavy shelling, and life there became increasingly unbearable.