Alex Bystrikov says he died in hospital and stood before Jesus. He says he saw the throne of God, heard angels worship and was given a choice: enter glory or return to earth.
Alex chose to return.
That choice is the centre of his Build For Good conversation with Aaron O'Sullivan. The story is not only about what Alex says he saw. It is about what he chose to build when he came back.
From a testimony to a life of service
Alex describes heaven as a place of joy. He says he felt fully alive in the presence of Jesus. He was not thinking about time, work or the things he owned.
"Some people ask me how heaven is in one word. I say joy. It's joy."
Alex Bystrikov
When Alex returned, he says the experience changed the centre of his life. His work now includes helping people affected by the war in Ukraine through Mercy Charity Foundation.
The charity says it sends food, clean water support, clothing, medical equipment and other aid to people in crisis. Alex also visits Ukraine with teams that help children through safe activities, gifts, games and professional support.
What war takes from a child
In the episode, Alex speaks about children who have lost parents, homes and the feeling of safety. He says some children stop speaking. He says loud sounds can make children shake or cry because they fear another explosion.
This wider harm is well documented. UNICEF says the war has robbed children of schooling, play, safety and time with loved ones. It also warns that the mental wounds may take years to heal.
Food and shelter matter. So do trust, patient care, education and safe people who keep showing up.
A child named Vera
One part of Alex's story makes the need feel very close. He talks about a girl named Vera who stayed near him during one of the children's events. Alex asked if she wanted to go back to the United States with him. She said yes.
When Alex had to leave, Vera cried. She told him she would go in a suitcase.
"They want a home. They want a place where they can stay."
Alex Bystrikov
Alex says that moment broke his heart. It also made his long-term goal clear. He wants to build a safe home in Ukraine for children who have lost their parents. A place where they can study, grow, receive support and be treated with love.
What building for good looks like here
Alex does not present himself as having every answer or every resource. He says the work is being built step by step. He needs people who can teach, help with media, improve the website, raise funds and support teams on the ground.
That is a useful picture of service. You do not need to hold every part of the plan. You can bring the part that is already in your hands.
- A teacher can offer knowledge.
- A designer can help tell the story.
- A business owner can fund a trip or share the need.
- A volunteer can give time.
- A person of faith can pray.
"Every little thing matters in His Kingdom. Even the cup of water."
Alex Bystrikov
This is the thread that joins the two halves of Alex's story. He says he stood before the throne of God. Then he came back to serve people in need. The testimony points towards action.
Watch, read and help
Watch or listen to the full Alex Bystrikov episode. You can also read the full timestamped transcript.
To learn about the current work or offer support, visit Mercy Charity Foundation.
If you want to hear another story about faith changing the direction of a life, watch Kevin Carthy's Build For Good episode. For another conversation about long-term work with children, read Jane Walker MBE's story.
The supernatural and healing experiences described here are Alex's personal testimony. The episode includes reports of war and trauma involving children. Please read and listen with care.