The Russian city of Yaroslavl has been associated with tragic events, including the loss of the Lokomotiv Yaroslav ice hockey team in a plane crash. However, one extraordinary event from over a decade ago remains etched in the memories of Yaroslavl residents.
Just over 10 years ago, a disturbing cry from an abandoned house in the Yaroslavl region near Moscow caught a neighbor’s attention. After a week of the unnoticed cries, the neighbor investigated and found a one-year-old baby girl left alone in deplorable conditions without food or water, a situation that would have led to her demise if not discovered in time.
The rescued baby, Liza Verbitskaya, was admitted to the hospital with a broken hip, malnutrition, and dehydration, resulting in developmental challenges affecting her ability to eat, walk, and cope with loud noises.
The initial plan was for Liza to enter an orphanage for subsequent adoption. However, a compassionate woman named Inna Nika, who found Liza, developed a deep bond with the infant during her hospitalization.
When Liza mysteriously disappeared from the hospital, Inna discovered she had been transferred to an orphanage. Inna, who had never considered adoption before, realized her strong connection to Liza and took immediate steps to bring her into her family.
Inna recounted, “I rushed to the orphanage as soon as I heard where she was. I was determined to bring her home and provide her with love and care.” After navigating the adoption process, Liza became part of Inna’s family, where she received immense love and support.
Liza’s recovery and growth were not swift due to her early-life struggles, but with Inna’s unwavering support and enrollment in dance classes, Liza blossomed into a thriving and joyful child.
Despite facing discrimination due to her Roma heritage in the predominantly homogenous community of Yaroslavl, Liza remained resilient, supported by Inna’s teachings to embrace her identity and ignore hurtful comments.
Liza’s tale exemplifies the transformative power of love and care, guiding her from a harrowing beginning to a successful model and talent contest winner, defying odds and prejudice.
Let’s celebrate Liza’s inspiring journey and share this heartwarming story to spread positivity.
