Soldier Oleksandr, call sign SHUM

My name is Oleksandr, call sign SHUM.
From the very first days of the full-scale invasion, I knew I needed to be where my country needed me most. Without hesitation, I left everything behind and joined the 25th Separate Assault Battalion. Our focus was the Donetsk direction, where my comrades and I held the defense, fighting for every meter of our homeland.

On July 13, 2022, I sustained an injury that became a new challenge for me. During a battle, I shielded a comrade with my body to protect him from an explosion.

The mine-explosion injury cost me my right leg above the thigh, parts of the fingers on both hands, and left me with severe trauma to both wrists. The doctors did everything they could to save my left hand, but it has now become clear that it will soon need to be amputated. They fought for it all this time, but sadly, a miracle didn’t happen.

I currently have a prosthesis for my right leg, but to use it, I need a liner—a special component that ensures the comfort and functionality of the prosthesis. Without this element, I cannot walk. Considering the upcoming amputation of my hand, crutches will no longer be an option for me, and the only way I’ll be able to move around is with a properly functioning prosthesis.

Unfortunately, the liner I’ve been using is worn out and urgently needs replacement. It is my only chance to get back on my feet after this latest challenge. For this reason, I am reaching out to donors for help, as time is not on my side. Without a liner, movement will become impossible, making even the simplest daily tasks incredibly difficult.

Despite all the challenges, I remain optimistic. I believe I can recover and live a fulfilling life. I dream of starting a family, getting married, and sharing my love with those I hold dear. Today’s struggles do not break me—they make me stronger.

 

TRANSFERRED: UAH 5,040

 

 

___________________________________________

Oleksandr has faced yet another challenge – the amputation of his left upper limb. The surgery was successful, the wound has healed, and the stitches have already been removed. He is now undergoing a new phase of rehabilitation at the "Western Rehabilitation and Sports Center" of NCSIU, where specialists are helping prepare his residual limb for prosthetics and improving his overall physical condition after all he has endured.

Oleksandr’s rehabilitation course was funded through the "CYBORG REHABILITATION" program, supported by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation and UCC National - Ukrainian Canadian Congress.

There is still a long road ahead, but most importantly, the defender is not giving up. Despite everything he has been through, he 
remains optimistic, constantly jokes, confidently moves toward recovery, and is making plans for the future.

Thank you to everyone who contributes to this cause. Together, we continue to fight and support those who defend our country.
 

TRANSFERRED: UAH 56,000

 

TOTAL TRANSFERRED: UAH 61,040