Vitalina woke up on the morning of February 24 to sounds that at first seemed to her like fireworks. But very quickly, she realized that these were explosions and that a war had begun. Her first thought was of her sister, who was left in Konotop without assistance. Vitalina and her mother urgently packed up their things and went to the Sumy region. They entered the city from one side, while the Russians entered from the other. After taking her sister, the family managed to leave the city just minutes before it was cordoned off.

Now Vitalina runs an art workshop where unique Christmas decorations "Christmas stories" are created. Together with Ukrainian artists, she revives traditions.