Vladimir P. Shamenko's Battle with Lung Cancer

Our grandfather, Vladimir Petrovich Shamenko, has been battling health issues for the last few years. However, last week, after having another seizure, he was taken to the hospital. During his stay, the doctors informed our family that he has lung cancer and that it has also spread to his brain. They found a tumor in his brain, which has been the cause of his seizures. The doctors are now sending him to rehab and have let us know he needs chemo and radiation therapy since he likely will not survive the surgery. His insurance only covers emergencies, and rehab/chemo/radiation doesn’t fall under an ‘emergency.’ That is why we have resorted to gofundme to help assist in the costs of his rehab and chemo/radiation treatments. All funds raised will be used for his recovery.

 

Our grandfather was born in Kyrgezia. He grew up in poverty, impacted by the Second World War. There he went to school for hydroengineering. At 16, while studying to become a hydro engineer, he was introduced to gymnastics. From there, he spent his entire life in the sport of gymnastics, whether a gymnast himself, a coach or a judge. At 24, he moved to Ukraine. Shortly after, in 1969, he moved to Kyiv and balanced university, gymnastics, and coaching at Dynamo Kyiv. He was the Head coach for men's gymnastics at the Ukrainian sports school of Olympic reserves. Then in 1972, he was a Candidate for the Olympic Games in Mexico City. During this time, he became the All around champion of Ukraine 5 times. In 1983, became the head coach of the National Olympic Team of Ukraine and remained the Head coach of Ukraine for 12 years. During this time, he was also a judge for the Men's Gymnastics World Championship in 1992, 1994, and 1995. Then in 1996, he led his son to the Olympic Games.

 

Even after a lifelong dedication to the sport, he moved to the United States and has spent the last 20 years teaching gymnastics in Virginia. He retired from teaching gymnastics only a few years ago, after having numerous heart attacks. 

So as we are helping Vladimir get healthy again, we ask you, if you have the means, to help us collect the funds to aid his recovery.

Thank you all so much for the love and support!

Unfortunately, on June 16th 2023, Vladimir passed away. We are incredibly grateful for all donations and well wishes. All left over proceeds will be directed towards funeral services.