Stepanenko Family
About Yana Stepanenko & Her Family
Yana Stepanenko's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, the human spirit can triumph. Her resilience and strength have touched the hearts of many, and her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance.
I encourage you to learn more about Yana's UNBROKEN journey and share her story with others. Let us be inspired by her indomitable spirit and strive to overcome our own challenges with grace and determination.
Yana's Story
It is the story of Yana, a young girl whose life was forever changed by a tragic event but who has emerged as a symbol of hope and inspiration. Yana's UNBROKEN story began on April 8, 2022, when her mother, Natalia, and her twin brother fled their home to head west to the Kramatorsk Railway Station. Tragically, the Russians shelled the railway station, resulting in the loss of 59 lives, including seven innocent children. Learn more about the Kramatorsk Railway Station attack here.
Yana herself lost both of her legs, and her mother lost her left leg in this devastating tragedy. Despite the immense challenges they faced, Yana and her family embarked on a journey of healing and rehabilitation in San Diego, California. It is there that Yana received her prosthetics and continued to inspire others with her UNBROKEN spirit.
Her determination, courage, and unwavering positivity have become a beacon of hope for countless individuals. Yana's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, the human spirit can triumph. Her resilience and strength have touched the hearts of many, and her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance.
"Stepanenko, 12, navigated cobblestones with her new running prostheses for 70 meters of the city’s half marathon.
“I’ve only recently got running prostheses,” she told Lviv city council, according to media reports. “So I’m just learning to run, a little scared because I’m not used to it yet. I want to support children who have also lost their legs and cannot run. I want them to see what I’m doing and say to themselves, ‘Yes! I can do it, too! I can run too.’”
- Runner's World, Heather Irvine
“I couldn’t get up. It was very painful; I looked at my legs and cried” - United for Ukraine & Runner's World
Follow Along
Follow Yana's journey from start to the moment she completed the Boston 5K in April 2024. Experience the thrill of witnessing her unwavering determination and relentless dedication as she trains to achieve her goal. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness a true champion in the making.
Check out Yana's training below!