Off The Record With Suzy Delaney

Kyiv and the American Dream

In the final episode of the 3-part series, we follow Marina's family as they strive to leave Kyiv, Ukraine, and find the American dream in the 1970s. The struggles of the first two episodes are rewarded in episode 3 as the family does indeed find their way to America. However, life was not what they had pictured. They find themselves in despair and abject poverty. But what they learn is that in America, many things are possible. This episode will leave you inspired and proud to share the American Dream with Marina's family.

A Family Leaves Kyiv, Ukraine

In Episode 2, we hear what happens to Marina's family after the KGB releases the 7-year old back to her family. Just when you would think that they would give up, the family pushes even harder to leave Kyiv. The risks are high and the future is uncertain. Along the way, unscrupulous people are poised to take advantage of the family, including a man in Rome that befriends the family and then offers to buy Marina. Will the family ever make it to America? This is a story of perseverance, family, and the hope of the American Dream.

Leaving Kyiv, Ukraine

In Episode 1, at the height of the 1970s cold war, Marina finds out that her family has been secretly planning to leave Kyiv, Ukraine. The 7-year old Marina finds out in dramatic style when the KGB picks her up and questions her about her parent's activities. You'll hear what it was like to grow up in Kyiv and the daring actions the family took for a chance for a better life.