Christmas 2022 once again meant a tremendous amount of gifts for children and families at Pierott. In addition to new clothing, toys, and food packages, this year we managed to acquire a piano, which went to Kendice into the hands of talented Lenka Šofranková.
Lenka is 19 years old and currently studying to be a pharmaceutical technician in Košice. She has been playing the piano since she was nine, when she started attending a music school, which she successfully completed. In addition to playing the piano, she has been singing since she was thirteen and is a member of the Kendičan ensemble. In 2022, she was also invited to collaborate with the Petroviančan ensemble. She loves dancing, but she can’t actively pursue it.
Unfortunately, Lenka suffered from scoliosis in childhood, which required surgery three years ago. However, her family, talent, hobbies, and zest for life fulfill her to the extent that she doesn’t see it as a problem at all. It requires a lot of exercise, which she has gotten used to and enjoys doing.
A Mentor and Teacher at 14
The piano represents incredible possibilities for Lenka, and there isn’t an artistic genre she hasn’t explored. In addition to her endless self-education, Lenka has also worked with children since she was fourteen. Every year in Kendice, she participates in preparing Christmas carols for children. Lenka rehearses and practices songs with the children’s choir, accompanying them on the piano.
They sing the practiced songs and carols together in the church. She also finds fulfillment in theater, where she primarily focuses on the young audience and participates in preparing various children’s performances at the Etuda Theater, such as The Golden Fish, Polepetko, and Clowning Around.
Lenka is undoubtedly a great role model for the children in Kendice and sets a strong example. In the past, she participated multiple times in piano and singing competitions, achieving top honors. Additionally, she is a talented painter.
Almost all of Lenka’s activities require a functioning musical instrument, without which she wouldn’t be able to develop not only her talent but also the talents of the children she works with. “Before, we had a rented keyboard, which was breaking down, and some keys stopped working. One day, it just stopped working altogether. Christmas was approaching, and I needed to rehearse songs with the children. I am very grateful for this enormous gift; I never imagined that someone could fulfill this dream for me.”
Family is a Great Support for Lenka
Given the number of extracurricular activities Lenka is involved in, it’s impressive how she manages her demanding pharmacy studies. The main reason for this is undoubtedly the strong support of her family. Her determination and skill constantly drive her forward, and there’s no doubt that great things await her in the future. “Studying pharmacy is challenging to combine with all my hobbies, but it’s manageable. I really enjoy it. I should be choosing a university soon, but I’m not yet firmly decided. I’m drawn to continue in the artistic field, but I’ve also studied a demanding program for four years, and I’m considering continuing in this field.”
We have known the Šofranková family at Pierott for about six years. Lenka’s mother takes care of her three beautiful children by herself, providing them with everything they need. They are doing well in school and are making wonderful plans for the future. Their family is filled with love, faith, harmony, and a lot of joy. We wholeheartedly support them at Pierott, and they are certainly a great role model for us. Given Lenka’s difficult past and the challenging circumstances life has thrown her way, it’s truly remarkable how she has managed everything and created a beautiful, healthy, and functioning home for her family. She is a role model for her children in almost every aspect. She radiates generosity and hospitality. We believe that the family will continue to thrive and that life will bring them only joy from now on.
Mom Lenka:
“God always sends people our way who help us. Thank you, Pierott, for everything. The support we receive from you is a great help. I wish you good health so you can continue to help others.”
