Soldier Volodymyr Popok, call sign PETROVYCH

In July 2024, I was mobilized into the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I served with the 151st Brigade, carrying out combat missions on the Pokrovske direction in the areas of Hrodivka and Novohrodivka and later on the Kharkiv direction.

On January 29, 2025, during the execution of a combat mission, a tragedy occurred. Near the village of Khrestyshche in the Kharkiv region, our military transport collided with a civilian vehicle whose driver violated the rules of the road. As a result of the accident, I suffered severe injuries: a closed fracture of the right femur with involvement of the hip joint, a pelvic fracture, and an arm fracture.

I was taken to the Kharkiv military hospital, where the doctors did everything possible to save me. I am immensely grateful to the medical staff — their compassion, support, and professionalism helped me through the hardest days. Later I was transferred to the Kyiv military hospital, where further treatment continued. However, the damage turned out to be so serious that a full life is impossible without surgical intervention.

Today I live with constant, excruciating pain. I cannot move without crutches or a wheelchair. I take strong painkillers, but they no longer work.

After the injury, I was initially placed in a non‑combat status and then discharged from service without any compensation. I am currently pursuing legal action to receive the compensation due to me under the law, but treatment cannot wait.

My only chance to stand on my feet again is a total hip joint endoprosthesis on the right side. The cost of the operation is unaffordable for me and my family. That is why I am forced to ask for help.

I do not dream of anything extraordinary. I simply dream of walking again, of hugging my loved ones, of feeling the ground beneath my feet instead of the cold steel of a wheelchair. I want to be active, useful, and not a burden.

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The fundraising campaign for endoprosthesis surgery for defender Volodymyr has been successfully closed. The implant has already been purchased, and the surgery has taken place.

This became possible thanks to you — each and every one who contributed with a donation, a repost, kind words, or simply support. Every hryvnia, every share, and every message mattered.

A special heartfelt thank you goes to the medical team and rehabilitation specialists for their professionalism, care, and humanity. For not just providing treatment, but for helping people return to life.

Recovery lies ahead — a difficult, but important journey toward movement, strength, and a full life without constant pain. We believe that step by step, PETROVYCH will stand confidently on his feet and move freely again.

Thank you for not leaving someone alone in their time of need. Together, we’ve done something that truly matters.

 

 

COLLECTED AND TRANSFERRED: UAH 104,000