A single moment can have a lifelong ripple effect on our lives. This is a fact that the Tim Tebow Foundation (TTF) has come to learn from the stories of those they help — they’ve made it their goal to change the lives of the most vulnerable communities around the world. This mission resonates with our own at InspireMore. That’s why we’ve teamed up for a collaboration to further highlight the ways in which TTF has and continues to make a positive difference in the world.
Today, I’d like to introduce you to Vadim. As Tim Tebow shared years ago, TTF first heard his story when he was a guest of Night to Shine in Ukraine — this magical, TTF-run event gives those with disabilities the chance to enjoy a prom night just for them. Here, Vadim had the opportunity to recount the many difficulties he has faced throughout his life.
Growing up in Ukraine, Vadim didn’t know what it was like to live in a safe, stable home. His parents were alcoholics who would often beat him. They’d even stuff him into a wine barrel, breaking his little body and leaving only a small opening at the top so he could breathe and see — but only just a little.
By the time Vadim turned 9, he was living in an orphanage. Unfortunately, as is the case with far too many little ones, his life only got worse there. Not only was he bullied, but he was placed in a room on the third floor, making it impossible to get downstairs in a wheelchair.
This left Vadim crawling up and down the stairs, an activity that was both physically and mentally taxing. He’d often be late for meals. If the food wasn’t already gone by the time he arrived, other kids would steal from him.
Then, a ripple effect began when some special folks visited the orphanage. According to Vadim, they told him all about Jesus — this conversation helped the 14-year-old find his faith and, in turn, he had more hope than he ever had before.
Today, Vadim is a father to his own kids, and his life couldn’t be more different… or better. Over the years, he’s discovered a gift for expressing himself through art. This inspired TTF to ask if he’d like to create a piece that represented what it looked and felt like for him to have gone from “darkness to light.”
The result? A truly remarkable painting that features Vadim, in his wheelchair, leaving behind his old home, including the wine barrel his parents stuffed him into. His new direction includes a beautiful forest full of fall leaves and bright light, signifying the hope he is said to have found in Jesus.
“His story is hard to understand,” TTF shared on Facebook. “It’s hard to understand why people would do what they did to him. It’s truly difficult for us to comprehend. But, we are so grateful for Vadim and that we can call him a brother in Christ knowing he is living in the light now.”
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