Friends and family, please meet Nadya, the wonderful young woman who teaches tennis lessons to Gavin twice a week. We met Nadya this past fall when Gavin struck up an interest in trying tennis. Since the moment we met Nadya, she has had the most positive and encouraging attitude. She is constantly smiling, and the impact she's made on Gavin's confidence in such a short time is nothing short of inspiring.

I say nothing short of inspiring because you would never know from interacting with her that behind the scenes, Nadya's family is currently struggling to survive in Ukraine. I found out, somewhat accidentally, when I asked how her holidays were, that she has parents and extended family in Kyiv and surrounding areas.

From Nadya herself:

"My parents, Glib and Tatiana, are currently in Kyiv, where the situation remains very difficult. There are ongoing explosions, it is very cold, and there are frequent power outages, all of which make everyday life much harder.

Despite this, my dad continues to work online from home to support our family during this time, including helping my younger sister and me while we are in the U.S., as well as supporting our relatives who live outside of Kyiv, where the situation is even more challenging. Even though we are all in different places, we are doing our best to support one another. Thank you so much for your kindness and support; it truly means a lot to our family."

Nadya's family continues to sacrifice to keep her and her sister safe here while my son wakes up every day with a roof over his head, clothes in his closet, food in his belly, and the privilege of never feeling the kind of fear and instability her family must experience daily. As a parent, I can't imagine the pride Glib and Tatiana must feel knowing their daughter shows up as a coach to young children every day with the most infectious smile and positive attitude despite the worry and pain she must surely feel internally. She puts it aside and provides lessons to kids every day without a trace of worry or burden—it truly amazes me.

The privilege we feel to provide lessons to our son while her family is fighting for warmth, food, and an ounce of stability is borderline shameful. This is the least we can do to try and contribute back to Nadya the love and care she radiates outwards towards everyone else.

Anything you can help us contribute to Nadya's family is truly appreciated. Thank you so much for considering Nadya and her family during these extremely difficult times. All funds will be given to Nadya's family to help contribute towards food and supplies to provide warmth due to record-breaking cold temperatures this year.