He was only eleven. Artem Mardziavko grew up in Mykolaiv — an attentive, inquisitive sixth-grader who loved learning, especially geography. After his death, a “twelve” appeared in his digital gradebook for the test he had prepared for so diligently.
Artem had been involved in sports since early childhood: he attended an Aikido club, trained discipline and endurance, and played football with his father with unwavering enthusiasm. In sports, he was determined and bright, as if made for moving forward. He was interested in IT, knew how to set up equipment, and longed to discover new things.
Perhaps his greatest dream was not about achievements — he wanted his family to be together again. His parents had separated, but Artem believed that harmony at home could return.
On the terrible night before 13 October 2022, a Russian S-300 missile struck their building directly. No sirens, no warning. A concrete slab trapped Artem’s legs — he spent six unbearable hours under the rubble. Rescuers worked through smoke and dust while the boy remained conscious, enduring pain beyond imagination. When he was finally pulled out, he held his mother tightly in the ambulance. His last words were heartbreaking: “Mom, please tell them I won’t be coming to school today…”
While doctors in the hospital were preparing him for surgery, his parents believed he would survive. But his body could not endure it. The crush syndrome left no chance. That evening, Artem was gone.
At the funeral, his mother promised her son she would fulfill his greatest wish — to reunite the family. And so it happened: his small heart managed to bring his loved ones together even after his death.
Blessed memory to Artem Mardziavko — an athlete, a kind and radiant boy who held on to hope until his final breath.