On May 4, 2026, our beloved mother and grandmother, Lena Lenkova, passed away at the age of 78, surrounded by her loving family.

For over nine months, Lena courageously battled stage 4 stomach cancer. Even as her body weakened, her spirit remained full of light. She continued to sing, play the piano, and bring joy to those around her—just as she had done her entire life.

Lena dedicated over 40 years to teaching and inspiring children through music, dance, and love. Her songs—many of which came to her in dreams—continue to live on in classrooms and hearts around the world. In her final months, she discovered painting, pouring her soul into beautiful flowers that she lovingly gifted to others.

During this time, she also completed her children’s book, Svetilniche—a meaningful collection of fables and stories meant to preserve the timeless values of love, kindness, and compassion in our fast-moving technological world.

Lena’s wish was for her book to be shared freely. To honor that wish, our family has created this GoFundMe to help publish and distribute Svetilniche as widely as possible—so its light may reach and inspire many.