Holocaust Survivor Helen Colin Full Testimony | USC Shoah Foundation

This is a full-length testimony preserved in the Visual History Archive: vhaonline.usc.edu
Copyright USC Shoah Foundation.
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[@USCShoahFoundation]

A few years ago, USC Shoah Foundation re-visited Helen after coming across archival footage of her from April 1945. Hear from Helen here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4fdp6iujZqml7c Hear from Helen's daughter Muriel about the family's discovery of this footage here: sfi.usc.edu/video/helen-colin-and-her-daughter-helens-testimony

[@earthart2010]

USC Shoah Foundation thank you so much for posting this. I wish I could see the film and hear what Helen said. Again, thank you. ❤️

[@krjdallas]

Hello Mama! I am so happy to have had the pleasure of calling you my friend. You were inspiring in so many ways. The impact you had on my life, is immeasurable...the impact you have had on this world is incalculable...and the marks you have made for freedom, kindness, and love are spectacular. On behalf of those who knew and loved you, and the rest of the world...thank you. There are no words to describe you...only, remarkable, soldier, superhero, and angel...those come the closest. A fine Lady; genteel, intelligent, classy, well mannered, caring,..one of the finest examples of a human being. She was the veryembodiment of love and humanity. God bless you mama. I hope you have enjoyed reuniting with your family in heaven. We shall miss you here, and be so much less than when you were amongst us, and yet be so much more because you walked among us.. rest now, beautiful woman, . Find your mommy n daddy, and they can help you keep watch over all of us here.

[@uhtredofuhtred87]

Kristopher Johnson how very touching. Thank you for sharing such deep, loving and heartfelt words.

[@marissacaldeira2098]

Jeanne you are a jewel

[@shenellmiller390]

I am from the Black Race, and I know there is nothing that I can say to ease the terror you have experienced however, I just wanted you to know that I"m terribly sorry and for those who did not make it. Terribly sorry. I hope the pain of memories in your eyes fade quickly I know you will always remember but the pain of it I pray that the remembrance of that tragic experience stop haunting you. Thank you for sharing this heart wrenching experience.

[@delilahvielma1692]

I love how she still calls her dad "daddy" ❤️🌺 R.I.P

[@devynglass3781]

Me too

[@ganjasmoke21]

Almost cried, because he was still daddy to her when he died..

[@elizabethlinsay9193]

I do the same! Daddy, I love you!

[@shainblair7785]

And mother mother

[@kevinpersaud2949]

Her eyes were so sparkly when she talked about her father in the very beginning. I'm glad she had such loving memories of a good father.

[@jankench9622]

So sad to read that this lovely lady left this world on July of this year. She might be gone but her story will live forever.

[@MySnaz]

Oh, that's very sad.

[@yungjamir]

RIP! 🙏🙏🙏

[@judibiggerstaff8054]

She does seem like a lovely person.

[@callicoat1]

I thought she was the most beautiful woman and her voice sounds like angels. I have listened to her story several times. I regret not writing her a letter. I’m sure she is heaven bound.

[@Loeee1]

Soooooo utterly sad 😞 😞😞😞😞😞🙏🙏🙏

[@faithdavis4453]

The daughter did not have share her negative feelings towards her parents. Truly selfish and unkind. Her mother went to hell and back.

[@lifesajourney9575]

Exactly!! Her daughters, especially Jeanie, are both very self-absorbed & disrespectful to their parents who went through horrors of Hell and somehow miraculously survived.

[@lynn9176]

YEP SPOID BRAT.. SHAME ON HER

[@lkj7296]

I was shocked by that too. I wish she could have done it more kindly, tell what happened to her but not in such a cruel and harsh way like she did. That was so hard to watch. I felt so bad for Helen. Helen was traumatized.

[@loveaisles8620]

That was like awkward!

[@lanasmoore]

She was honest

[@longlegs7881]

This has to be so hard for her to relive her time in the camps. I found her youngest daughter to be very mean and not understand what it's like having both parents work. My parents didn't play with me and was alone a lot. But I knew my mom loved me cause she took care of me. After what her Mom just went through re-living her time in Germany and the camps and then she makes a harsh comment that made her mom cry. It broke my heart. Sorry

[@mattpaola65]

Agreed ❤

[@WildThings113]

What a beautiful woman you are Helen, her daughters testimony was horrible and you could see it in Helen’s face the pain and the humiliation. what a selfish daughter.

[@c.wakeryderwakie785]

I was horrified at her daughters so awful

[@irishcountrygirl78]

@@c.wakeryderwakie785 what about them???🤨

[@c.wakeryderwakie785]

@@irishcountrygirl78 Maybe. They need to learn Compassion for their Own Mother Rather than Humiliate her while she was pouring out her guts I Hope they Find Jesus He Heals Everything

[@irishcountrygirl78]

@@c.wakeryderwakie785 l hadn't watched the whole thing yet, apologies, When l read all these comments on the children....l didn't realise the children talked about their own experiences, that's what l meant by what about them? The children need to be quiet tbh, imagine yapping about something they couldn't possibly understand. More respectful if they had of been silent and humbled by their hero parents. First daughter sounded ungrateful and selfish, oh wait the second daughter is talking, she's the same. For shame.

[@c.wakeryderwakie785]

@@irishcountrygirl78 Its appalling behaviour I hope they find Peace in Jesus

[@kathymyhand6052]

Whenever I'm having a "bad" day, I remeber Helen and the problems I face seem insignificant and I realize instead how lucky I am . Thank you Helen as you paid a huge price in your life and are nothing short of admirable, honorable, and a blessing to anyone that knows you.

[@lesleykruijt8580]

Don't ask me why, but when she said "I skipped a chapter, is it ok if I come back to this later, dear?" It broke my heart. She is talking about the worst things a person can go through and she is still so polite and mindful of the other person, as to ask if it's fine if she backs up a bit. It is her story, and it must be so hard to recount it all. It shows that the nazi's have taken so much from her, but they couldn't take away her spirit

[@odeb7924]

She's lovely, I liked how she refers to her parents as "mother and daddy"

[@RositaAHuff]

We need to listen. We need to act....A catastrophe like that should never happen again....to no race...no people.

[@gabrielarivas586]

Dictators man

[@kev03103]

@@gabrielarivas586 What does this comment mean?

[@ajussiani]

@@kev03103 dictators man ideias.

[@readysetgo1996]

Watch out for the Democratic Party !

[@deirdreryan8258]

It is the republicans that are taking our voting rights away.

[@adoria5]

This beautiful soul passed in July of 2016. Thank you for sharing your difficult past with us. Rest in Peace with your loved ones. ❤

[@MrsK976]

Are there more videos of her?

[@tlarinto]

Helen is an amazing woman. Her daughters on the other hand were unbelievably self absorbed, rude and very unsympathetic to the horrors their mother endured. Their words were absolutely appalling to me.

[@somewhereinmontana3405]

The most powerful, emotional testimony I’ve seen. The interviewer was excellent, so kind and thoughtful and allowed the gravity of each story to settle before asking another question. Mrs. Colin’s descriptions were so detailed, it made me feel like I was there with her during those horrors. The honesty of the story of her husband’s guilt in surviving the one selection was so heartbreaking. I’m so glad she was able to share her testimony…that alone was so courageous. I see that she has since passed away, and I hope her spirit is now with those of her parents, brother and sisters that she was so devoted to. #ALWAYSRemember

[@robbie_]

To have to choose between your little sister and your mother. I mean even thinking about circumstances where you'd have to do so. It's absolutely horrific.

[@lisashrestha5023]

Rob Inson I can also understand allowing their mother to go with the little sister, as imagine how frightened she would have been to face that alone. 😢

[@robbie_]

@@lisashrestha5023 Agreed.

[@lizetearruda3196]

So very sad to hear what her younger daughter said after all her Mom and Dad went through. Made her Mom cry very very sad.

[@Cece-dad17]

No, her feelings are also valid though, she didn’t feel she had a childhood. That’s trauma in itself, just a different kind.

[@terrieormonde2340]

​@@Cece-dad17OH brother, this is about a time in history. A daughter today will always blame parents. Big deal.

[@alinapatricia8639]

@@Cece-dad17 No, this was not the right time and place for this selfish brat to air her dirty laundry. My God - her parents went through the most horrific evil time in the world and this selfish brat wants to talk about her difficult childhood instead as a result of her parents' trauma. What a selfish prick!

[@audreyclarke6019]

What a wonderful well spoken lady, you can still see the pain in her eyes.

[@MG-cd9ek]

This was incredible, the interviewer is incredible and allows the guest to speak. This woman is beautiful too. She is reliving it. I can see it.

[@MrPaultopp]

So painful .......

[@sandy4498]

Her memory is incredible and with so many details. I don’t hear hate or anger. So elegant. I’ve seen so many of these interviews but this one really got to me.

[@lyndaallaby2131]

Yes, what a soft kindly speaking interviewer - such kindness in her voice.

[@kerrypaterson3427]

U

[@nlcrme]

What an honor and privilege to hear theis interview from the most courageous, beautiful and loving woman I have ever seen. I was said when the interview was over as I wanted her to keep talking and sharing her experiences and wisdom with us. With a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes I say Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and my God Bless You and Your Family for generations to come.

[@valeriepritchard2900]

Heartbreaking to hear the comments of the daughters, the poor Mother. Why would you make that public. As if she hasn’t been through enough.

[@alinapatricia8639]

Exactly. Typical behavior of a selfish entitled unintelligent brat.

[@salomejohn6869]

Rest in peace dear Helen. No more hell for you. 💕

[@maryannluke7168]

Shame on her younger daughter for the criticism of her mother!!!! She Will NEVER be able to understand what her mom went thru !!! Her mother did the BEST she could do with what she had gone thru !!!!

[@Anna123-d2k]

What a beautiful story of resilience. This was wonderful to watch until the daughters spoke. They were so mean towards their parents. From all the experiences they had, they chose the bad ones. Unfortunately, as parents, we also make mistakes and have traumas, let alone them. However, I imagine they tried their best to give them everything they were ripped away from. Not even an: I love you mom, because regardless of being in hell, loosing everything, you gave us a home and did your best to raise us! So selfish!!!

[@pliny8308]

I'm sitting here by myself just sobbing. I too loved my parents so much. To listen to her talking about finding her dead 49-year-old father and scratching out a grave for him just broke my heart. Poor, poor woman. Her poor husband, too. Such guilt.

[@devynglass3781]

I have no idea how many times I was put to tears. It’s amazing how these people went on with life after such a tragedy. Knowing that some members of your family were killed and how they were killed would truly haunt me every single day. This lady right here is phenomenal and beautiful and someone to absolutely look up to. I just adore her!

[@autumnrain1390]

Yes that's just how i feel for her.i would of loved to hug her.her children should be bursting with pride.how sad how they buried there daddy x

[@my1birdhouse]

Today Friedman story very sad and intense also.

[@jacquelynskye295]

@@my1birdhouse It's very difficult to watch. 😞😓

[@violet32makingit64]

I wish that KZbin had a heart button!

[@REmcoo36]

@@violet32makingit64 ❤

[@yasmingoncalves4541]

She doesn't even look 72!

[@robinfrady5257]

I don't understand that math either. This film was 3 yrs ago. She was 73. My husband is 71 and was born in 1949. This woman said she was born in 1923?

[@mollybanks5083]

@@robinfrady5257 I think this was actually filmed in 96'

[@danielabramson2464]

@@robinfrady5257 this was filmed in 1996

[@camilleoreilly7063]

I can’t imagine how the survivors lived through each day following the ordeal. These people are incredibly strong.

[@cheyenneunderwood2252]

I can't imagine losing my parents or siblings that way 😢😢 it's heartbreaking

[@justaguy5947]

I didn't have parents. went through a lot of very bad things in soviet union and I don't believe that woman a thing.

[@nunya2954]

@@justaguy5947 - WHY would she LIE???????????????????

[@WildThings113]

@@justaguy5947 ,.. get help

[@fifthavenuegirl]

I love people from this age group - they were the hardest working, most appreciative of everything and really most respectful and God fearing. I am so sorry for what she and all these people went through. Could this happen again? Sadly, yes. As long as we tolerate and allow psychopaths and narcissists to take positions of power.

[@MTknitter22]

Eliza Raffles Yes - because as we all know hatred of Jews just because they are Jewish still exists.

[@kerrieharrison4773]

So true. Just look at the far right populism rising all over Europe, U.K. and America today.

[@Mike-01234]

Get involved and vote if you don't that's how minority extreme groups take over

[@anneperry9014]

And radical extremists!!!!!!!!

[@shenellmiller390]

Yes, being from the Black Race I certainty agree. No group of people or race should"be or should experience this.

[@jennikaesquivel-mendez1002]

I wish I had the opportunity to give this beautiful angel of a lady the biggest, warmest, and most humanizing hug.... The level of psychological implications behind all the atrocities they had to endure, are so immense... My utmost respect and prayers go to the Holocaust Survivors... Possible there are only a few by now, but human love and respect does NOT EXPIRE 🙏🏻❤️😭

[@thenanlife1141]

Definately me too .. I would give this wonderful lady the biggest hug ever , god bless her ❤❤❤❤❤

[@earthart2010]

A friend of mine Who is Native American has said that it takes four generations to work through trauma in a family. Thank you Helen and the rest of your family for your testimony.

[@lindacosta3381]

Alice Rabbit Of course we would find you on this site. Spreading your ignorance and hate wherever you go

[@michellebyrd9017]

@@lindacosta3381 How is she spreading hate exactly? It seems if you commented on the wrong person.

[@mtmarijana21]

Why 4 generations ?

[@heidivernathorbjornsen475]

@@michellebyrd9017 Linda, was speaking to someone named , Alice -who removed their hateful comment or Utube removed it -obviously it was a comment that you did not see.

[@michellebyrd9017]

@@heidivernathorbjornsen475 I guess I didn't see it.. Thank you....how could anybody say hateful things when these people were brave enough to relive that tragedy all over again by given testimony about the horror they experienced through the holocaust, but there are evil souls everywhere so I'm not surprised.

[@seemarajderkar3019]

Helen Colin's life story brought tears to my eyes. She is such a lovely and graceful lady. Good,that she found some peace and happiness after moving to the USA. May her pure soul rest in peace.

[@cardiacmyxoma4073]

She's beautiful! Absolute grace! Much love from Algeria x

[@scottporter4871]

Wow, she looks fantastic for a lady in her 70's

[@roselee4445]

Like 40

[@jaajaarogers9101]

I was thinking that too looks very young full face off grace I don’t think she drank alcohol 🍺 or smoked her skin is healthy 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼💝

[@dominosa7]

This video everyone needs to watch today!!! Especially young generation. Not all these stupid pop music videos. People need to know more about this tragedy, remember how our liberty today costed people in the past. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@secretaryandactress]

Only just a few years ago, I started reading and watching videos about the Holocaust; I am somewhat obsessed with the subject. I have also read about the partisans and other families surviving the war in unique ways... there are so many stories.

[@kitkatpangirl8059]

@@secretaryandactress hey!! I also find it a personal calling to research and learn all I can about the Holocaust and every other horrifying exterminationist-driven Genocide through history. The saddest thing is, most people aren't even aware of the Holodomor or the Assyrian Genocides, there are so many, many more. The worst Genocide by far in my own opinion was the Native American Genocide, the numbers are jaw-droppingly painful. From systematic sickness alone, 100 MILLION native Americans were murdered.

[@ginaf2103]

Beautiful woman inside and out. l couldn't stop listening

[@kqquin5725]

Toni M m

[@marcopolokitty]

Toni M I couldn''t either.

[@kellymccallister7373]

SAME HERE I WOULD LOVE TO HUG HER AND JUST LISTEN TO HER TALK ❤

[@manueladarazsdi9675]

Finally, a kindly interviewer!

[@WalterJoergLangbein]

A warmhearted, kind interviewer

[@greybeard7121]

RIP Dear Lady, there will be no hatred ever again for you.

[@shirleystokes4233]

I'm seeing this in 2020 and sending love and hugs to you and your family

[@audreybee5061]

What a wonderful, beautiful lady. Inside and out ❤️❤️

[@odeb7924]

That younger daughter acts like she's in a therapy session. Poor baby, "not liking her parents, and feeling unloved." Your mother lost most of her family, survived brutal beatings, humiliation, starvation and witnesses horrific deaths etc. Empathy, respect and forgiveness. Grow up.

[@2lisabarth]

100% Oh my gosh my heart is hurting for this amazing woman... The look on her face when she heard her youngest daughter say, "they didn't have a chance to love us"... 💔 Clearly, that daughter may have some residual issues, salt on a wound with the second round of get words!!! Stop! Just stop!!!!! I mean, after the younger sister speak the first time, even the older sister tried to defuse the awkwardness but saying "probably what my sister is describing, is her lack of perception of feeling loved...". That younger daughter needs to seek some therapy!

[@WildThings113]

@@2lisabarth it’s unfortunat she has a horrible daughter to say such things towards her beautiful mother

[@barbaravyse660]

I get what she’s saying. Her parents were traumatized from the Holocaust and that stays with you forever. I read somewhere that it takes generations to get through a trauma. Of course her parents loved her, but they probably had difficulty expressing it.

[@odeb7924]

@@ohio "Sound" like you need to go to school. You dope.

[@odeb7924]

@@2lisabarth The other sister's son is well spoken and sweet.

[@BeckBeckGo]

When she talks about her mother scolding her “oh the Germans are cultured and civilized, they wouldn’t do that” my brain went instantly to Ancient Rome and the numerous atrocities that civilized nation committed against foreigners and their own people. Lots of civilized nations have done terrible things to innocent people.

[@audreygibson8307]

I appreciate having the opportunity to view this and learn from Helen's experience. Thank you, USC Shoah Foundation.

[@heyhandersen5802]

An excellent story and good interviewer. The truth of her story is reflected in her emotions. You could not fake or make this up. A warning to those who would take facism lightly.

[@sabreecarpenter4285]

Yes, Pamela Lane led Helen through her testimony in a calming fashion. Can't recall her ever interrupting Helen. She had a very compassionate tone.

[@loydamoran1563]

Very well spoken lady. She told the testimony so vividly. So, so, very sad what everyone had to endured.

[@Jewls1000]

My God this is the most heart wrenching story I've ever heard. Im crying along with her, I can feel the pain in her voice and the utter horror she experienced. Its horrifying humans did this to other humans. Im so sorry she lost her beautiful family. She is such a beautiful woman and so poised and elegant. God bless her 🙏❤️

[@MariaLopez-hc2nm]

Julie, have you watched Kitty's story? Now That's amazing... She's still alive living in the UK

[@Jewls1000]

@@MariaLopez-hc2nm Im not sure I've been watching these for so long. They are all good but certain ones hit harder and stay with u forever. Could u share the link to kitty's story if u don't mind?

[@grytlappar]

What a lovely woman. Can't say the same for her daughters. Even if they didn't have some ideal childhood, you'd think they'd have a more mature perspective on it as adult, middleaged women. Her grandchilden seem nice, so there's that.

[@tabathahomeister1844]

strong woman, may she Rest in Peace with God and her family now...

[@honestyisthebestpolicy8566]

If there’s a heaven where they really meet their family or even their pain is recompensed then I hope that’s exactly where she is. She’s beautiful inside and out. I’d give anything to look just as classy as she does and speak the way she does

[@donaldslaughter3951]

This would have been better without the family interview. Who cares what the opinions of the family are?

[@bebelovestoread]

Today, April 15 is Helen's birthday. Thank you, Shoah Foundation, for this unforgettable interview.

[@ajussiani]

❣️

[@victoriaaguilar266]

Gracious dignified Lady, her story and message is deeply felt. So happy she survived and moved on with her life.

[@thenanlife1141]

Such an attractive and beautiful lady xx🥰🥰

[@wendycarter2304]

And so is today, April 15, 2021. She would celebrate 98 years. Surely this is The Greatest Generation. Their stories are so very important. ❤️

[@heartus2010]

Oh, how I wish that Helen were still alive! First, I would hug her. And then I would tell her NOT to let what her children said, bring her down and feel so, so horrible. This should NOT have been said at this time. One would think that by now, they would get over themselves, and how it "hurt" them, and have empathy for their parents, instead of feeling sorry for themselves. My mother was German/Jew, and was born in Augsburg Germany, in 1939. She remembers being in a cellar for hours, while her town was being bombed, and having to be next to a corpse. My Oma developed an addiction to morphine, after her son, my uncle was killed, at the age of 18. She commited suicide in 1962. My Opa was a prisoner of war, and was only kept alive because he was a shoemaker. My mother met my dad while he was stationed in Germany, and then brought her to America, when she was 19 years old. Only to be disliked by her in-laws because she was a German/Jew. My mother was an alcoholic, and I bore the brunt of her cruelness. However, I knew what she went through in her childhood during the war and how it effected her Mom and herself. And I knew enough to know, and to understand that she was the way she was because of it. Of course, it wasn't until my early 20's that I had a better understanding of how the war effected her, and my family. But I NEVER once, disrespected her the way these children did. And I do not blame her for any of my character flaws because, one has a choice on how they turn out, regardless of their upbringing. Sigh.. that's all I have to say. Rest in peace, Sweet Helen.

[@heartus2010]

@Kimi Apparently, you are illiterate. Which means, you can't understand what you are reading. Have your Mom re-read my post for you. You'll see that I too went through childhood trauma. BUT you can't blame everything on the parent who caused you to go through these things. There comes a time when you must forgive, and move forward. And by the way, I am a saint. And that's because I belong to Christ! Not because I'm perfect. So, in the future, you should watch what you say to people because you don't know who you are talking to.

[@meghanweber9675]

cl ward I did not get the impression that her children were speaking negatively of their parents, but that they were explaining how the holocaust affected their parents’ ability to be “normal” like other families they grew up around in the US, who were not affected by the Holocaust. By their own testimonies, it is clear that the daughters have a complete understanding of why their parents were the way they were, but they don’t hold it against them as adults. They were testifying how they felt as children. It is very obvious that there is a lot of love in this family.

[@eleatherman1]

cl ward You do not present yourself as a Saint. Belonging to Christ does not make you one. Your need to call Kimi illiterate tells me that you need to take a refresher course in humility. So, in the future, you should watch what you say to people because Saints don’t degrade and bully people.

[@heartus2010]

@@eleatherman1 If you read this persons response, you'd understand why I replied the way that I had. Have you ever read God's Word? I'm not the only one who has set people straight, and have called them out. We may use different words, but believe me when I say that Paul's response was just as tough as mine. This is a very touchy subject with me, since my family was effected by Hitler and the Nazis. And BTW, I'm not perfect...yet, are you?

[@margaretgibbens5761]

Dear God, how did these beautiful people survive this? Probably bcuz they are His Chosen.

[@loricook6331]

Thank you for spending so long with this treasure. Interesting to see how the pain has trickled down. Maybe we should all try harder to give grace to those around us.

[@Peaceshiet812]

That’s awful what the younger daughter said at the end, it really upset her Mum, not the time or the place for it, really shameful 🙁

[@manueladarazsdi9675]

Yup, a brat.

[@alinapatricia8639]

Agree 1M %. Shame on her.

[@tonibowers6324]

These testimonials should be required viewing in our high-schools. She was a lovely person and my heart is broken for what she and her family suffered. We can never forget what happened to the all those who experienced the inhumanity of the Nazis. Thank you Helen for sharing your story.

[@soft_serve_666]

@Coffee Addict That's not true at all. Teenagers aren't heartless monsters with no empathy. They're just teenagers still trying to figure stuff out. I know if we heard this woman speak in high-school, it would effect my classmates and I very deeply. There are videos on KZbin in fact with Survivors speaking in high-schools and there are teens visibly crying.

[@soft_serve_666]

@Coffee Addict I think you're a very negative person, but to each their own indeed.

[@juicyballs6351]

@Coffee Addict nah you're just negative

[@juicyballs6351]

@Coffee Addict I'm literally a teenager myself. You are correct that teenagers can be cruel but it's definitely not all of them. I felt terrible during this and even cried. I can't speak for other teenagers of course but not all of us are heartless.

[@adamspringer2442]

I completely agree with you! Toda Raba, Shalom! 🙏

[@sandy4498]

You can see the pride when she talks about after they were liberated. She is so proud of the life she had, and she should. She lived a wonderful life after.

[@chenry1279]

1:47:00 "I know no strangers because everyone I touch always remains a friend of mine. Because I love humanity! I still love human beings." I have listened to hundreds of survivor testimonies and Helen Colin is truly exceptional. Her capacity to really feel, to grieve, to cry to still get goosebumps after 51 years is so different from others. It's a miracle her heart is still alive! Only God could give her the capacity to love and to say, "I have no animosity." (1:48:30) Also Helen's children gave the most honest, gut-wrenching testimonies of any I'm aware of. The never spoken about impact of being raised by survivors - what a shock to watch Helen receive that after hearing about her beautiful family life in the 20-30s in Poland. Another tragedy. (Her grandson's comfort of his mother was special!)

[@helenbovill7029]

C Henry get

[@gaborkorthy8355]

As a second generation survivor myself it is hard to fathom how events that happened ten years before my birth could possibly have such a profound impact on my life. I also as a child wondered why I did not have grand parents,uncles, aunt's or cousins. My parents were obviously damaged by their traumatic war time experience. They gave me emotionally what they were capable of. I will not nor am I in a position to judge them because I am too much in awe of their ability to have survived despite overwhelming odds.

[@sabreecarpenter4285]

​@@gaborkorthy8355 Thank you for sharing your heartfelt words. I have just a sister by birth because we were adopted. The only relatives we have are our children. Hope that you are safe, loved, and doing well.

[@elernation5519]

Imagine saying you didn’t feel loved by your mum on TV, infront of her, in a clip to be used to document her tragic story. It feels so harsh to me

[@donnanix1279]

Me too...I just hate the daughter said all of that ...

[@mistypotato7500]

It is important, because it is a results of the trauma. It demonstrates how extreme it changes a person's ability to attach and love others. You must not make the mistake and take it as criticism towards the mother - but as a testiment to the desctruction and pain the events caused and how they transfer from generation to generation.

[@gracepientok4134]

This was the most riveting, sad account of the horror this woman lived thru, I have ever heard. There is a wake up call for all of us in Helen s. Wise summary and advise. The daughters picked the wrong time and place to vent...their mother has suffered enough. The grandson was more appropriate and kind toward Helen.

[@goldenglowladore3842]

@@gracepientok4134 I agree. Painful memories for Helen and her children. I was saddened by what appears to be little reconciliation with their mother. The grandchildren don't seem to know or to express affection to their grandma. Grandson's speech was very impersonal.

[@ritahuang7220]

I cry many times for Helen story

[@BigdaveIDF1]

That’s so messed up that the younger daughter is so spoiled that she had to take away from her mother’s story by saying she felt unloved. I hope in all these years that she grew up. Her mother was a wonderful person anyone that see that.

[@nz7921]

Second generation goes through trauma as well. It s an important testimony.

[@sarahneels4331]

Why would someone lie about feeling unloved? That’s just messed up! We just heard her testimony we don’t know her personally or her as a mother! How can we assume we know her daughter’s childhood better than her?

[@BigdaveIDF1]

@@sarahneels4331 It was quite a while ago I saw this testimony and I don’t remember the context of why I made those comments. If memory serves me right the daughter made it all about herself and not about her mother and what she went through during the Shoah.

[@webworm13]

Dignity personified. May you rest in peace Helen.

[@kittiesshortie5011]

Her children should be ASHAMED for criticizing her and their upbringing and shaming her in this video. I couldn’t believe how nasty they were . For shame .

[@lilhedgehog8576]

I just want to hug her

[@melissavandehoogen1538]

What a beautifull woman .... at this age she is still so handsome.....i want to hugggg her en kiss her on the cheek.....such a strong woman....i have my mother no more for years.....and I wish her children have more patience with her ....listening... i could listen for hours to her story's and i would listen.....that the world can not forget what the holocaust has done to people.... The people who say that the holocaust did not take place they are true monsters themselves......

[@nsbl1753]

I have to agree. Her daughter Jeanie was too harsh. Poor woman.

[@sarahcelik3393]

I understand you. She is so beautiful. And I wish I could sit next to her and Listen to her.

[@osiris_blanche]

After listening to these tapes & then see whats happened in Charlottesville/Alt-Right, you really just want to throw up.

[@lourdesprudencio5647]

I agree, people that are haters, I will never get it. I'm Hispanic, I got profiled in a store 2 days ago & I was devastated. I can't imagine an extreme case.

[@osiris_blanche]

@@lourdesprudencio5647 what state do you live in? & What store?

[@brightbleu]

Having watched many of these videos, Helen's testimony was so beautifully told and with such emotion. The remarks from her daughters were gut wrenching to listen to. Their Mother went through so much and you could tell it was painful for her to hear that her children felt so unloved growing up. I felt it was borderline disrespectful to talk about their Mother in such a negative way. Helen could have been angry, justifiably so from all that she experienced and saw during the war instead, in her grace she chose to focus on the good in her life. I hope that her daughters can follow in their Mother's footsteps and embrace the positive instead of letting the anger consume them.

[@Rallik]

I couldn't agree more

[@helenbovill7029]

Second Twirl fffc ccffctyb

[@dbkyhere9229]

I agree, the Grandchildren were the jewels in what they said, in spite of the daughters/Mother’s statements of how hard they had it. I don’t think this was the forum for them to complain, breaking their Mother’s heart further. I hope in reflection they’ve learned it’s hard to give what you don’t have, especially having to work so hard. There are no perfect peoples or families, even ones that have availed much. Always forgive, but don’t forget, as the mistakes and tragedies will keep you thankful, and hopefully smarter, leaning on God for strength when you have none left at times.

[@michelleluna5590]

I cried with her and for her. Beautiful soul.

[@madeleinetrempegoulet9244]

Second Twirl I

[@connieericksen8663]

Helen is a beautiful, kind-hearted, sweet woman with grace. Her daughters seem to be self-centered jerks. They just ruined the entire interview regarding the life of this beautiful survivor. Bad choice to allow them time to speak in this interview!

[@alinapatricia8639]

Agree - the younger one is a jerk indeed.

[@jimmiepatrum]

Very disappointed in the younger daughter, Jeanie and what appeared to me to be her self-centered, "poor me" attitude. My own father was an Army soldier in WWII and was captured by the Germans where he remained a POW for sixteen terrible months. That time scarred my dad, but never once did I feel deprived or complain that because of my dad's experiences, I suffered. He suffered (and my mom too, during the time she worried that he might be killed as a prisoner) far, far more than I can ever imagine. I live in a free country and have never been exposed to the horrors of war, thank the Lord. I hope that by now this young woman has matured. Diane in North Carolina

[@lourdesprudencio5647]

I'm so sorry for your dad & for you. I'll pray for you, 🙏🙏🙏

[@MrsK976]

Her daughter is a narcissist, no doubt about it. So common in that generation and even worse nowadays. I am sorry for what happened to your dad. My grandpa saw things in the war he never spoke about. But he came home telling us to always be careful about what we see on the news - way back then he realized it was used for propaganda.

[@irishcountrygirl78]

@@MrsK976 what generation?

[@amandablevins322]

It’s unfathomable to me, such a beautiful soul.. had to endure Such a horrendous crime. I’m so glad she was able to live and share with us what happened during this time. Her daughter Muriel looks so much like her sister. I wish we could have seen the picture of her Mother she tried to hold on to. I wish I could take her pain away from her past.

[@danalley6381]

Younger daughter Jeanie is a grave disappointment. She needs therapy along with using her mother's testimonial for a soapbox. I was stunned to hear her humiliating and hurtful words toward her mother. It's obvious Jeanie just doesn't get it. Her mother?..an angel who made a difference.

[@amybrown7729]

Amazing woman ❤️ her children clearly don’t understand any of what she went through or the impact that this had on all the survivors . How sad to live through that awful experience to then have ur children treat u that way 😭😢

[@philipchamp594]

You will see this type of dysfunction in many families where parents are survivors of extreme trauma. Many families across America where moms have been through sexual abuse and rape at a young age will go through this very thing. It is an unspoken story across the world. Take a look at the Dugger family. some of those girls are going through a silent battle deep in their soul. The Epstein victims, they all have stories, and the families suffer. Not because of evil hearts of parents but they suffer from the scars and broken hearts.

[@elsaestrada-morales8604]

Yes, I agree . .. trauma not something easy , to just sweep under the rug.. Very hard.. but I’m sure down the road , the family will come to understand .. they seem like they want to get it..🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@catmom475]

Honestly, I think her children are a bit selfish. Where's the sympathy/empathy?

[@lissettesbloom8223]

I totally agree.

[@smalltownusa3124]

Who down votes such a testimony? I don't understand that.

[@normalermensch1661]

The Uighurs in China now have the same time

[@mariefoley9080]

Oh Lord! Helen had me in tears. I can not comprehend my life w/out my parents & sibling but now have my children & grandchildren. I know I'd would not to continue to live. I could feel the wounds reopen from Helen, could feel her pain. She was not ashamed of her tears. But, also her happiness when reunited with her husband. May this dark, sad, period of history NEVER happen again IN JESUS NAME.

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Yes, amen. Controlling, deceitful, hateful tactics of government and other money-driven influencers of fear, bend their knees in the presence of the Only God, our Lord Jesus Christ.

[@joywisdom6598]

Beautiful woman ! No words to describe her strength ...and love in her words & body language.

[@KatieJoMikell]

Helen is my favorite I love the way she talks about “the greatest love you can give is respect to one another!” Amen to that Mrs Helen Kolin ♥️ I will remember your story forever ♥️

[@ilenekaplan109]

I was a bit disgusted at the way her daughters talked about their mother. I thought it was cruel and my heart went out to Helen but the daughters seem so angry while her grandchildren have much more empathy and love toward their grandmother than their mothers do. Helen went through so much heartbreak and loss and she did the best she knew how to do-her daughters should be greatful and show her the love and respect she deserves instead of the anger towards this poor woman. Helen, I am greatful to you for sharing your story with us. I wish I could hug you.

[@crystalfisher5150]

I agree with you. Her daughter's threw her under the bus and was very disrespectful . They complain about their childhoods like they were some kind of victims. Their parents were the victim's not them. I bet you there daughter's wouldn't of traded childhoods. I found them disrespectful and I'm sorry to say that I think they took away from the interview. May they all find peace!

[@mrdio4625]

I felt the girls were well within bounds. Yes they were victims in the sense that the things their parents went thru deprived them of the ability to show their kids the love and affections most kids take for granted.

[@hadeneason8981]

I felt that her daughters lacked basic empathy and understanding. Yes, they didn’t have the “ideal” childhood of many children, but their parents were destroyed as children. The fact that their parents survived such a vile and horrendous tragedy should be what they respected and focused on. They need to look at her strength and learn from that, not be self-involved unappreciative daughters. My heart broke for Helen. She even said the Nazi’s broke her. She did not have advantage of “therapy” to talk her problems through after the war. As they reached adulthood and maturity, why not find a way to help their mother cope with what happened to her and help her heal, instead of blaming her for not being a tree person. She did the best she could do with what was left of who she was. Her daughters now get to live with themselves and FOREVER know their hateful, cruel comments about their, now, late mother will live on in this video. Shame on them.

[@WildThings113]

@@hadeneason8981 .... well said..

[@barbaramitnick7758]

He

[@malloryobrien6366]

Her younger daughter was so disappointing to listen to. My God, the self centerdness.

[@Brend.0]

Unfortunately most modern born Americans don't know how good we have it. Which makes me think history unfortunately is doomed to repeat itself. That selfishness is what eventually leads to atrocities like the holocaust.

[@Criseteno]

Dear Helen, you are honestly the nicest, loveliest person I have ever heard speaking. You are so right in saying that one of the worst things behind mass murder is the fact that so much potential, so much brightness, is just extinguished, with no ryhme, nor reason. I think I would have loved to know you, before this terrible experience, and after. You are strong, and beautiful, and have such a mischievous sense of humour: I feel your presence could brighten any room and any space. It shouldn't matter what your religion is, what your past is: what makes a person unique is their personality and you, dearest Helen, are just a wonderful person.

[@MySnaz]

It seems a little cruel of Jeanie to speak that way in front of her mother who has been through so much. Maybe she didn't mean to sound like that. but that's just my opinion.

[@Rallik]

and the fact Helen started crying when she said that, made me feel so bad for her :(

[@bassetbaby67]

I agree, I thought what she said was harsh and a bit cruel. I totally understand what she meant but she could have said it in a not so hurtful way. I find it truly amazing that the survivors of the holocaust could actually function and have somewhat normal lives after such a horrible thing.

[@NYWF1939]

I knew Jeanie for several years in Houston. She was a selfish, narcissistic bitch. She was supported by her Mother...until her Mother's death. I wonder what has happened to her.

[@Guilfreefoods]

I agree. Though i feel like what the granddaughter said, was somewhat directed to jeanie.

[@teddmented]

I blame whoever thought of asking children of holocaust survivors how their childhoods were effected by the holocaust. Literally any answer is going to upset the survivor. I’m sure they meant well, but it was shortsighted. I’m not impressed with Jeannie’s insensitivity, but I’m sure her feeling were valid.

[@KienyejiChicken]

How much more blessings the US would have gotten if only it had opened its doors to more Jewish refugees before the war!

[@dm3199]

United States turn around ship full of Jewish refugees back to Europe well over seven hundred of them died, Poland on the other hand admitted over two hundred thousand of Jewish refugees that were prosecuted mainly in Germany and other European countries

[@stacyb.9335]

@amrmatinea simej the Germans would often stage pictures of the Concentration Camp making it seem like the prisoners were treated well and fed well and they also made them write letters to the families moments before they were killed assuring them that they arrived safely and we're okay no one really asked you believe that any of this was going on but thank God for a lot of the Jews who were able to hide negative pictures that were later found they show their struggle which was mainly the proof

[@SapphireZeev36]

Stacy Bell Right on most of it. But US entered two years and 3 months into the war. (War lasted officially 6 years)

[@estrellitas34]

Yes exactly I thinking the same.....

[@emmam2060]

@amrmatinea simej since the winning of the war was a combined effort by other countries *"as well as"* the U.S., the liberation of the camps were a combined effort as well.

[@musicismygirlfriend3]

lol @ the interviewer whispering "they can't come in" after the doorbell rang at 1:24:06 I commend Helen for doing this interview. its important that we know the full extent of what happened and that it is never forgotten.

[@karencallison1807]

The interviewer said, he will take care of them, not they can't come in!

[@janaohanesian2627]

i could listen to her speak for hours and hours. so real and her experience i could feel. inspirational woman.

[@rachellesmith4726]

Helen I admire you, you choose to shine after all the thing you have been through.

[@MK-tb2lu]

I just couldn't stop crying when she described about how she found her daddy. Oh dear god how much pain and suffering they went through

[@marcopolokitty]

I hope this family was reconciled. The grandchildren seem much more understanding and forgiving than the daughters. I am glad she lived a long life and I hope it was a happy one.

[@marcopolokitty]

The daughters seemed to have a lot of anger toward their parents in the statements they gave at the end, especially the girl named Jeanie.

[@TheOtherSideOfAlice]

Helmut Sonntag did u not watch till the end? The daughter was upset.most likely because her parents couldn't be parents for her because they were struggling so much internally. But I'm not going to pretend what they've been thro. We just don't know odviously.

[@marcopolokitty]

Thank you!

[@marcopolokitty]

How could I help but feel for people who have suffered so through no fault of their own? Not just Jewish people, but any people. I feel because we cannot forget institutionalized brutality such as this no matter where we see it.

[@marcopolokitty]

Helmut Sonntag: I am not going there with you Helmut, sorry.

[@TheGithiomi]

Beautiful soul. She was loved and you hear this in her voice. We need more and more of this voices heard so that we never forget or repeat the same mistakes.

[@bennettearnold5140]

This is a Horrific experience that these two sisters, and those two brothers survived, My Grandfather fought during WWII. Mrs. Helen Colin has such grace and dignity telling her story of survival, she has left a big impression on me. She may be gone, but her story and courage live on.. Thank you for sharing

[@candicemcmanaway]

She is such a remarkable woman! I was completely sucked in every time she started to tell her story and she was so great at grasping the details. Definitely a privilege to be able to hear her story.

[@ilenekaplan109]

What an elegant lady. So sorry to hear she has passed away. At least she was able to enjoy her family. She had been through so much for no reason other than being born Jewish. She appreciated and loved The rest of her life. May she Rest In Peace.

[@estrellitas34]

Yes I AGREE WITH YOU RIGHT........I FEEL THE SAME.

[@stevenhensman2541]

My dear lovely friend I am not sorry sorry that that lady passed away she is with the ones who she loves me and mother and father and friends in the glory of our heavenly father amen

[@luvgingham]

I didn’t like that her youngest daughter discredited her Mother and Father by saying they were not as loved as other children. She should have honored her Mother.

[@kerrieharrison4773]

She probably didn't mean it in the way you think. It's not about discrediting. They had been through so much. It is quite common for holocaust survivors not to relate to their children. Imagine what they'd been through. There wasn't councillors in the way we have them today. Once it was over, they were left to get on with it. I've heard of quite a few cases where they couldn't relate to their families. The daughter was relating her experience.

[@manueladarazsdi9675]

It hurt the mother badly 😢

[@shelbyruch9786]

That younger daughter... damn!!! Even if I did feel that way, I wouldn’t pour salt in the wound!! I think Helen went through enough!!

[@tressabaker6514]

My sentiments EXACTLY! She was rude and disrepectful! Sounded like a grown up BRAT with an attitude!

[@Muirmaiden]

@@tressabaker6514 All children deserve to feel loved. And they have a right to their feelings. People who have been through trauma often emotionally distance themselves as a way of coping.

[@kellyvh7660]

GOD BLESS YOU! Every time that I feel taken advantage of, I think of what happened there when I was just a little girl 12 or 13. I lived in Germany and I was taken to see the camps at Dachau, etc, and it totally affected me. Whenever I'm in rough times I think of your stories and it helps me to stay strong!

[@goldenglowladore3842]

Definitely need to appreciate our blessings. I expect that was difficult to see the horrible events you saw when visiting. Why were you taken to the camp? God bless you!

[@nanceb4him]

Beautiful Hela, God Bless you, and your beautiful family.

[@mgtowp.l.7756]

A Excellent Video.. Highly Recommended.. Thank You Very Much Mrs. Helen Colin For Sharing.. You Are A Very Kind Sweet Lady..

[@johanrahan3189]

How could you discredit your mother in such a way !!

[@lifesajourney9575]

Her daughter Jeanie is an overgrown crybaby! That was definitely not the time or place to disrespect & humiliate her poor mother. That woman literally went to Hell and back. May she finally RIP...

[@ruthangelina9885]

her bratty daughter Jeanie really hurt her mom by saying she didn't feel loved.

[@tressabaker6514]

Yes she did! And that's how I felt about her too...that she was a grown up BRAT!

[@funone2312]

thanks, for sharing story.

[@renae9365]

Such a beautiful human and beautiful soul. I’m crying with you as you tell your story. So brave and strong. Rest In Peace Hela, I hope your reunion in Heaven is wonderful and you see all of your family

[@TheLindaEdit]

Oh. My. God. This was a tough one to watch the ending. After listening to Helen speak through her tears for 2 hours, I was completely astonished how utterly disrespectful her two daughters were. Its like they were throwing her under a bus and kept running back and forth over her. The one daughter kept her arms crossed in a very closed off stance. This was not a counseling session on parenting. Not the time to make their mother feel so badly. There isn't a perfect parent anywhere. I hope one day these 2 whining daughters will grow up. God bless Helen.

[@leemcdaniel5072]

In watching this video I see the immense pain and justifiable anger that the Holocaust still brings to people. This is the price for hate and intolerance. It effects people for generations. What is so tragic is that humans still have not learned from their mistakes. Hate and intolerance is still being unleashed stronger than ever. We continue to create our own hell.

[@KaiokenLuffy]

LEE MCDANIEL That is so true . But at least the American people for once Voted for someone who cares for the people and not for the elite . A tiny step towards the right Direction

[@GR-hy3tf]

LEE MCDANIEL well said my dear

[@xerxescroes2281]

Has the Bleach anime returned yet ? Please don’t cheapen this or any other survivor’s testimony with politics...

[@alexhobbs4915]

LEE MCDANIEL i

[@Kmilverton]

LEE MCDANIEL was not

[@MrsK976]

Why didn’t anyone from her family hug Helen as she cried?! Those daughters really don’t seem to appreciate the true depth of what their mom and dad still suffer with. Those 2 daughters should appreciate their mom and dad, working so hard through trauma unimaginable to bring them life..... I felt Helen was almost having to beg that her kids are there for her...... I’m really appalled by the way they treated their mom!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@nicoles7800]

Dear Lord, unbelievably heartbreaking. I know as a Mother though, if faced with the same choice, and if my youngest Son, cried out " Mummy, Mummy, come with me, be with me". I would. I am not able to entertain the thought of leaving any of my Sons. With God's grace I hope I only have to say goodbye when old age catches up. Helen's testimony is so painful and nesessary. Rest her Soul, and bless and save all those around the world today, suffering genocide.

[@josophineolliffe7110]

Nicole S

[@nsbl1753]

If it meant I'm getting killed and I have a few other kids that are not getting killed I've would not go. It would break my heart for ever but I would let one go to help the other two.

[@katarinasvensson9801]

​@@nsbl1753yes but the other three was much older then her she was the baby in the family.

[@cleone9182]

Daughters were unbelievably rude and hurtful. There's a time and a place to discuss family grievances and this wasn't one of them.

[@MegaRainlover]

Extraordinary. It took me a week to watch this entire interview. I was so emotionally upset to hear how she,her family, and others were treated. It is such a gift that this woman survived. That she found love with her husband, and continued on to live life and have a family. It's just shocking what hateful people can do to others! I'm sure Helen's mother would be very proud of her, and her sister for going on with life, and continuing the family. I'm going to get ahold of Helen's book, "My dream of Freedom" and read it cover to cover. God bless you Helen Colin.

[@martiakatz8442]

The "handful" of people involved millions,.