At 86, a Ukrainian Man Still Digs His Garden and Coaches a Volleyball Team

Anatoliy Fedorchenko: A Model of an Active Lifestyle

According to Главком: In the village of Lyubech, located in the Chernihiv region, 86-year-old Anatoliy Fedorchenko maintains a highly active life-tending his vegetable garden and coaching the local volleyball squad. He single-handedly digs up his plot each year, starting in late March and finishing by the end of April. For the past three years, he has managed the garden entirely on his own, planting potatoes across more than 10, and possibly as many as 12, hundred square meters. He also chops firewood using an axe dating back to 1750, preparing his winter fuel supply.

Anatoliy has lived alone for 11 years, ever since his wife Valentyna Demydivna-a former geography teacher and head of studies-left him. His son resides in Kyiv. Despite his advanced age, he remains deeply engaged in community life, training the local volleyball team. In his younger years, he played for the Lyubech team himself, helping them secure first-place finishes. Practices are held almost daily, with separate sessions for girls, boys, and older young men.

Anatoliy’s Approach to Health

He has not taken any medication in 50 years and has not suffered from a runny nose in 40. He follows a natural health regimen, foraging for herbs such as:

• nettle
• motherwort
• St. John’s wort

These he dries, brews, and drinks as tea to maintain his well-being. As he puts it, 'I gather herbs, dry them. I brew them and drink them like tea. It helps with blood pressure and my heart.' He also takes a teaspoon of vodka infused with propolis, which he believes supports his health.

American endocrinologist Florence Comite notes that longevity is 50% determined by genetics, with the other 50% hinging on lifestyle, diet quality, sleep, and physical endurance. Anatoliy Fedorchenko stands as a vivid example of how activity and healthy habits can influence lifespan.

“I don’t trust anyone with my garden. As long as I have the strength, I’ll handle it myself,” he says.

He continues to care for his garden, which is not just work for him but a source of joy and vitality.

Anatoliy Fedorchenko’s story underscores the importance of an active lifestyle and healthy routines for a longer life. His example shows how physical activity and proper nutrition can positively affect overall health, even in old age. Stories like his can inspire others-especially seniors-to stay active and pursue their passions, which in turn can improve their quality of life.