Help Oksana Rebuild After the Fire

My name is Valerija, Oksana’s daughter. My mom was out of town when the fire broke out in the Pacific Palisades, California. It’s a bittersweet reality—a huge blessing that she’s alive and safe, but a heartbreaking loss as she’s been left with nothing. She didn’t have the chance to save her important documents or irreplaceable, sentimental items.

My mom’s story is one of resilience. Born in Siberia, she lost her family at just 14 years old and has been in survival mode ever since. She put herself through school while working night shifts, never once giving up, no matter how tough life became. Thirteen years ago, she made the courageous decision to move us from Latvia to the U.S., determined to give me a chance at a better life.

For years, she’s dedicated herself to helping kids in need, all while supporting me and my brother, who has schizophrenia. She’s a definition of strength, always the first to offer help and find solutions, even when she’s struggling herself.

When people ask me how I became so tough, I tell them, “You should meet my mom.” She’s the kind of person who will sacrifice everything for the people she loves, even now. When I offered to bring her to stay with me in Mexico to take some time to heal, she declined, saying, “Honey, I can’t come see you. I have to go back and work—I have nothing left.” Girl what? But that’s my mom—selfless, hardworking, and unstoppable.

The funds I’m raising will help her rebuild her life in the coming months. I want her to have the space and resources to take a breath, process this immense loss, and heal before she dives back into work. She’s spent her life giving to others, and now it’s time for her to receive the support she so deeply deserves.

Every contribution, big or small, will make a world of difference. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and generosity.

Valerija Valentina Mizula