UKRAINE – In wartime, bombs fall on military and civilian alike, often with dreadful consequences. Survivors of war in Ukraine face daily challenges to scratch out even the most basic existence. For Olexiy, living in the Donetsk region of Ukraine where shelling is fierce and frequent, life changed in an instant.
The day started much like any other. Olexiy had finished his shift at work and returned home to help his mother around the house, then tend his chickens and rabbits. Suddenly a Russian shell exploded nearby—throwing his world into chaos.
The blast shattered his left forearm, leaving Olexiy with what doctors called an “explosive injury” that would require a complicated surgical procedure involving bone grafting. “My hand was basically nonfunctional,” Olexiy said. “The injury left me unable to work.”
The Plight for Survivors of War
In fact, the trauma specialist told him that if the injury wasn’t treated properly, Olexiy would be permanently disabled—unable to support himself, much less a future family. But the advanced surgery and metal reconstruction he needed were far beyond what he could afford. That’s when you stepped in again to help survivors of war.
Because of compassionate friends like you, Operation Blessing was able to the provide the surgery. He underwent the complex operation—and thanks to your generosity, healing is now within reach.
“I am glad that I can live and work fully with my left arm,” Olexiy said gratefully. “Once my arm heals, I plan to work and just live my usual life. Start a family, have children. … What else is needed?”
Since the start of the conflict, Operation Blessing has been offering emergency food, water, blankets, and generators—as well as critical, life-changing surgeries for survivors of war. For survivors like Olexiy, your love has meant the difference between despair and hope, creating a brighter tomorrow.
