Vadym Kolesnik, a talented ice dancer representing Team USA, has shared an emotional update after successfully raising more than $20,000 to help his family attend the 2026 Winter Olympics. The 24-year-old athlete expressed profound gratitude to fans and supporters as his GoFundMe campaign crossed the $20,211 mark, significantly easing his financial stress ahead of the prestigious Games.
Olympic Dream Becomes Reality with Community Support
Kolesnik, who will compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, revealed that the generous donations will enable at least two family members from Ukraine to be present in person during this monumental event. He shared this heartwarming update on the fundraiser page on Friday, January 23, describing the outpouring of support as both overwhelming and life-changing.
"Thank you so much to everyone who has donated and supported me. I am beyond grateful," Kolesnik wrote on his GoFundMe page. For the dedicated ice dancer, this remarkable show of solidarity represents far more than just financial assistance—it symbolizes family, strength, and peace during what promises to be one of the most significant moments of his athletic career.
Qualifying Amid Financial Challenges
Vadym Kolesnik earned his Olympic qualification alongside his ice dance partner Emilea Zingas, a Michigan native. While their Olympic dream has materialized, the journey has been marked by considerable challenges and financial pressures that tested their resilience and determination.
Thanks to the generous contributions from supporters worldwide, Kolesnik confirmed that his family can now travel from Ukraine to witness his Olympic performance firsthand. "Because of your incredible generosity, I can now confirm that at least two of my family members are coming from Ukraine to support me at the Olympic Games," he wrote. "This would not have been possible without the outpouring of love and kindness from all of you."
Family Presence Means Everything
Kolesnik emphasized that sharing this pivotal moment with his family holds immeasurable significance in his life. "Having my loved ones there means more to me than I can express. Knowing I have this support gives me strength every day," he added, highlighting the emotional dimension of his Olympic journey.
Earlier this month, Kolesnik initiated the GoFundMe campaign with an initial goal of $25,000 to cover essential expenses including training costs, travel arrangements, ice time, coaching fees, and choreography. Beyond the practical necessities, he also hoped to reunite with his family after years of separation caused by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
"While I train and compete, my family remains in Ukraine, and being apart during such a big moment has been very hard," Kolesnik wrote, revealing the personal sacrifices behind his athletic pursuit.
Training Journey and Heartfelt Appreciation
The dedicated athlete has resided in Novi, Michigan since 2017 and has trained extensively at the Novi Ice Arena for nine years, honing his skills and perfecting his craft. He concluded his heartfelt message with sincere appreciation for everyone who contributed to making his dream possible.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in me and helping make this dream come true," Kolesnik expressed, capturing the profound impact of community support on an athlete's Olympic aspirations.
