Soldier Oleksandr, callsign BURYA

I served in the Armed Forces of Ukraine from 2013 to 2021. During that time, I took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) and the Joint Forces Operation (JFO). Now, I am once again performing combat missions as part of a Special Operations Forces unit. I have always believed that every man must stand to defend his country. This is my choice and my duty — not only to the state but to those who stand beside me.

In August 2024, while carrying out a combat mission, our unit came under enemy fire. I sustained a severe injury to my left knee — a torn ligament that stabilizes the joint. I received first aid and then underwent treatment in a medical company. When the pain subsided a bit, I returned to duty — I wanted to be there with my comrades. But not for long — the pain returned, and my condition worsened.

In October, I was hospitalized again and underwent knee surgery. Unfortunately, I was unable to fully recover — I didn’t have the chance to complete rehabilitation because I had to return to service. A year later, while on a mission near Kyyanytsia in the Sumy region, our unit was hit by an enemy drone strike. The blast wave threw me back, and I felt a sharp pain in my left knee. It was later discovered that the implant of my anterior cruciate ligament, placed after the previous injury, had ruptured.

I am currently undergoing rehabilitation, but for the next stage of treatment, I need funds for a new implant and surgery. I cannot cover these costs on my own.

My goal is simple — to stand on my feet again, return to my comrades, and continue defending Ukraine, just as I have done all these years.
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Friends, thank you to everyone who contributed to the fundraiser for a knee ligament implant for defender Oleksandr, callsign Burya. The need has been fully covered — the implant has been purchased, and the surgery was successfully performed.

Ahead lies a challenging recovery period, but now Oleksandr has a real chance to return to a full life without pain.

A huge thank-you to everyone who stood by his side — through donations, reposts, and words of support. Special gratitude to the medical team who quickly performed the surgery and did everything possible to set Oleksandr on the path to recovery.

Step by step — toward health, toward movement, toward life.

 

COLLECTED AND TRANSFERRED: UAH 20,800