It’s with a heavy heart that I share the unexpected passing of my mom, Valentina "Val", on September 29th, 2025. She was my everything, my mom, my coach, my role model, my best friend, my rock.

My mom was born and raised in Belarus and her journey took her across the world, with me as her sidekick :) Her passion for coaching and mentoring young athletes went far beyond the gym. She treated every athlete like family and taught lessons that stretched well beyond routines and scores.

Her passing was a complete shock, and in many ways, it still doesn’t feel real. I don’t have many details to share at this time, as everything is still being finalized, but I want to thank everyone for all for the memories, messages, and love you’ve shared. I’ve read every single one, even if I haven’t been able to respond.

It’s never easy to ask for help, but unfortunately, funeral and end-of-life expenses have created an unexpected financial burden, so I’m reaching out to this community for support. My mom did not have a will, so any contribution, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference in taking care of her affairs and arrangements.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with others who may wish to help, or simply keep her in your thoughts and prayers. I’ll be spreading her ashes, along with Noel’s (her other sidekick of 17 years -doggo- who passed away in 2019) after her cremation.

Details are not yet fully finalized but coming soon so please if you are in the Florida area, let me know.

Thank you to everyone. It means more than I can possibly put into words.

-Sasha/Alex