It’s been about a year and a half since Anton Bezborodov’s harrowing escape from war-torn Ukraine; he now finds himself transitioning to a new chapter filled with stability, hope and the warmth of family.
At the age of 20, Bezborodov found himself forced to flee from his home in Ukraine due to Russia launching a full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2020. Guided by the support of SHS orchestra teacher Thomas Wright and his wife Elizabeth, alongside a network of friends and family, Bezborodov successfully navigated the challenging journey back home.
After a reassuring phone call from Bezborodov confirming his safe arrival in California, Wright immediately booked him a flight from San Diego to Indianapolis. As Wright eagerly awaited Bezborodov’s arrival at the airport, witnessing him walking towards him brought a profound sense of relief, signaling that his son was finally safe.
“I was just excited to experience it for myself, like to see how I would fit in an American family,” Bezborodov said. “The more I encountered the Wright family, I have kind of felt closer and closer and more attached to them.”
Now, at 21, Bezborodov enters a new chapter in his life: adulthood.
Enrolled at Marian University, Bezborodov is pursuing a major in sports performance, aligning with his lifelong passion for soccer. Swiftly integrating into the university’s soccer team, he completed an entire season but also secured a spot as a team starter, actively participating in most games. Bezborodov’s success extends beyond the field as he excels in his academic pursuits.
“I hope for happiness and good relationships with people and to achieve all my academic and athletic goals,” Bezborodov said.
The Wright family filed for Bezborodov’s adoption and it got approved for Jan.18. His application for a green card has also been accepted and is on the way.
“The adoption itself is a little bit symbolic, but for us as a family, it’s very meaningful,” Wright said. “It’s recognized by a government on the planet that he is now part of our family, and that gives us a sense of belonging and security that I just think is beautiful and wonderful.”
Meeting the Wright family not only opened new opportunities for Bezborodov but also allowed him to experience life within an average American family.
“If I never met the Wright family, I would be in a different place, and I would never get to experience family,” Bezborodov said.
