Razom Participated in the First International Congress on Military Medicine and Mental Health
The First International Congress on Military Medicine and Mental Health, titled “Warrior: Life. Health. Combat Readiness,” was a pivotal moment for Ukraine. Held in Kyiv on July 27, 2024, the event brought together a distinguished assembly of Ukrainian and international experts in healthcare, rehabilitation, mental health, and military medicine.
Among the attendees were key government figures, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, First Lady Olena Zelenska, Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov, Minister of Health Viktor Liashko, Ukrainian parliamentarians, diplomats, military personnel, representatives of specialized medical centers, public organizations, and charitable foundations.
Razom for Ukraine was honored to participate in this critical congress. Our team, led by CEO Dora Chomiak, CFO Oksana Falenchuk, and Executive Director Evelina Kurilets, actively participated in the event.
The congress delved deeply into the pressing issues facing Ukraine’s military and its personnel: physical and psychological health, rehabilitation, field medicine, and innovative solutions. Participants shared their experiences and expertise, fostering a collaborative environment to address these challenges.
Since the outset of the full-scale Russian invasion, Razom has been steadfast in its commitment to saving lives. “Razom has already purchased and delivered over 150,000 tactical first aid kits and over 3,500 medic backpacks to frontline areas. We have also created our own teams of instructors who conduct medical training for service-members and first responders. All of this is done with one goal in mind – to save lives, which is the most valuable thing,” shared Taras Hatalyak, Head of Razom Heroes program.
To further support first responders and civilians, Razom organized a hands-on workshop at the congress, teaching participants essential life-saving skills like applying tourniquets and packing wounds. Our experienced instructors shared their knowledge, empowering attendees with practical skills to make a difference.
Beyond addressing immediate medical needs, Razom is committed to supporting long-term recovery efforts. At the congress, during a meeting of the Interagency Working Group on the implementation of a pilot project aimed at reforming rehabilitation in the healthcare sector for military personnel, Oleksii Zakharchenko, Razom’s Communications Director in Ukraine, introduced the “Ukraine Rehabilitation Platform” project. This initiative is being carried out by Razom with support from SAP Ukraine. The online platform, accessible at rehabukraine.com, offers comprehensive information on over 415 rehabilitation centers throughout Ukraine. By mapping these centers, we strive to simplify the process of finding appropriate care and ensuring access to essential rehabilitation services.
The First International Congress on Military Medicine and Mental Health was a significant step forward in improving the lives of Ukrainian service-members and veterans. Razom for Ukraine remains committed to supporting their physical and mental well-being, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure they have the resources and support they need.
Okhmatdyt’s Medical Staff: Faces of Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
On July 8, 2024, a day that will forever be etched in our hearts, the world witnessed the incomprehensible destruction caused by a massive Russian bombing campaign that targeted civilian areas in Ukraine, including a major cancer center, Kyiv’s Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital. The stories of the brave medical professionals and the innocent children affected by this heinous attack, paint a vivid picture of the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people.
Mariyana Morozova: A Day of Unimaginable Horror
Dr. Mariyana Morozova, a pediatric anesthesiologist at Okhmatdyt and expert in Razom’s Breathe initiative, shared her harrowing experience. She splits her time between a private clinic and Okhmatdyt, located just across the street from each other. On that fateful day, Dr. Morozova was working at the private clinic when the air raid sirens blared and explosions shook the ground.
“I tried to contact my colleagues at Okhmatdyt, but there was no response. I ran over there, and it was just a disaster! There were so many wounded,” she recalled. The intensive care unit’s lab technician was severely injured, suffering from a concussion, a jaw fracture, and bleeding. With the help of the entire community, they evacuated the most critical patients, including those in the neonatal ICU (Intensive Care Unit), neuro ICU, and surgical ICU. Dr. Morozova’s department was among the most severely damaged, and she tragically lost a dear friend and colleague, Dr. Svitlana Luk’yachuk. Miraculously, all the children survived, but the emotional scars will remain forever.
Alyona Bezlehka: First Day Back Turns into a Nightmare
For rehabilitation specialist Alyona Bezlehka, it was her first day back at work after a vacation. She had been eagerly anticipating reuniting with her patients. As the explosions began, she quickly led her patients to the corridor and then to the bomb shelter. Returning to her department on the 5th floor, she encountered her colleague, covered in blood and holding a child they couldn’t evacuate in time.
“The floor was covered in blood and dust. I am not a surgeon, but I saw bandages and started applying them to stop the bleeding,” she recounted. Among the chaos, one boy’s cries for his grandmother haunted her. He was in shock, shivering, and vomiting, with his hand covered in blood. The sight of injured children, medical staff on stretchers, and parents with bandaged heads was overwhelming. Her department was almost completely destroyed, with windows blown out and the ceiling collapsed. Despite the devastation, the motivation to help and the outpouring of support from the community kept her going.
Valeriy Bovkun: Narrow Escape from Death
Valeriy Bovkun, head of the Department of Reconstructive-Plastic Microsurgery at Okhmatdyt, was organizing the evacuation of patients when the explosion occurred. “I was in my office when the sirens started, and then went out to check if the patients were moving to safe places. Moments later, the explosion occurred. My office was critically damaged: the blast wave tore out the window and threw it right onto my workspace,” he recounted. If he had stayed a moment longer, he would likely have been buried under the rubble. Thanks to the timely evacuation, most patients were unharmed, but five staff members were injured by glass shards.
Despite being in a state of shock, Valeriy and his colleagues immediately began providing first aid to the injured. “We applied bandages and sutures, examined the children, and did everything we could to help,” he said.
Roman Shevchenko: From Routine to Ruin
Roman Shevchenko, head of the Children’s Sleep Laboratory at Okhmatdyt, was in the laboratory next to the building hit by the missile. “By the time the explosion happened, we had not yet managed to get to the shelter, so after the impact, glass shards flew at us. I was slightly injured, but our nurse was severely cut by glass and bleeding. We started looking for something to bandage her with, but there was nothing nearby, so we went down to the floor, and there I provided her with first aid,” he explained. Despite the devastation, most of the laboratory’s equipment remained intact and continued to function. “We had a laptop on the windowsill, it was covered with glass but still working!” Roman recounted in astonishment.
He emphasized the unexpected timing of the attack: “Russia struck right after all the morning meetings were over and all the doctors had started working. We were already used to Russia striking at night, so this attack was completely unexpected.”
Photos courtesy of Okhmatdyt medical staff.
How You Can Help:
The attack on Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital has devastated the lives of many innocent victims and shaken the global community. Razom Health is actively on the ground, mobilizing crucial supplies and support for those affected.
You can make a difference today by supporting our dedicated teams as they work tirelessly to aid the victims of the Okhmatdyt tragedy and other healthcare facilities in Ukraine that remain under constant threat of attack.
Donate now to provide immediate relief and assistance to those in need.
Building Ukraine Together X Razom: Rebuilding Homes and Communities
Building Ukraine Together (BUR) is a non-governmental organization empowering youth through volunteering. Originally a volunteer camp, BUR unites volunteers from Ukraine to renovate homes and lives affected by the war since 2014. Following the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, BUR scaled up to support thousands of people, renovating homes and shelters for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and common spaces for people to meet and learn
Partnership with Razom: A Synergy for Greater Impact
BUR and Razom started partnering in 2016. Razom has been instrumental in promoting BUR’s projects in the U.S., recruiting international volunteers, and securing funding for them. Since the 2022 escalation of the war, Razom has supported BUR initiatives, recognizing the importance of community and developing future leaders during these violent times. Last year, we supported a number of volunteer camps that were pivotal in assisting populations directly impacted by military actions, IDPs, vulnerable populations, and youth.
Project Overview and Implementation
The partnership between BUR and Razom focuses on developing young people through volunteer activities, aiding communities affected by Russian aggression, and enhancing social infrastructure. This project encompasses three main activities:
Community School: A preparatory training program for community representatives where BUR camps will be held.
Volunteer BUR Camps: Hands-on volunteer camps focused on renovating selected premises, engaging local youth and fostering community cohesion.
Local Volunteer Actions (BURchyk): Smaller, local initiatives driven by volunteers.
Despite the ongoing war and associated risks, BUR successfully implemented all planned activities, demonstrating remarkable resilience and commitment.
Community School
Held on June 17-18, 2023, this two-day training session equipped 10 participants with the necessary skills to organize and conduct BUR camps in their communities. The curriculum included team-building exercises, presentations about BUR and Razom, and fundraising strategies. This initiative aimed to enhance the capacity and self-sufficiency of local teams, ensuring they are motivated and prepared to drive positive change after BUR’s intervention.
Volunteer BUR Camps
Thanks to Razom’s grant, BUR organized 16 volunteer camps across three communities (Chernihiv, Rivne, Kharkiv). Each camp, attended by approximately 25 volunteers aged 16-35, focused on renovating critical social infrastructure. Projects included renovating an inclusive resource center, a youth space, and housing for IDPs. Overall, with our help, BUR renovated 3 IPD shelters, 2 event spaces, 9 houses and flats damaged by war, and 3 bomb shelters. Seven hundred thirty-three volunteers from all over Ukraine got involved into BUR projects. Volunteers not only engaged in physical reconstruction but also participated in a comprehensive cultural and educational program, fostering leadership, problem-solving skills, and civic engagement.
Have you heard about BURchyk?
It’s not just a construction project, it’s a movement and it’s changing the lives of countless Ukrainians. BURchyk is a special volunteer project of BUR; it’s a short-term construction initiative that unites local volunteers looking to make an impact. Joining BURchyk means being part of a mission to restore homes, create shelters, and rebuild Ukraine. Thanks to Razom’s grant, BUR organized 14 BURchyk camps across the Ukraine.
Impact Stories: Transforming Lives
Renovating a Community Center in Bar City
From July to September 2023, BUR volunteers renovated a facility to engage in cultural and educational initiatives. This project focused on renovation and promoting social inclusion through cultural events and education. The community celebrated the successful project with a reopening ceremony. The center, which supports 240 children (half of whom are IDPs) with assessments and consultations, is now a more welcoming space thanks to the efforts of BUR and local volunteers.
Restoring a Home in Trikhsvyatska Sloboda, Chernihiv Region
In August 2023, BUR volunteers helped an elderly couple whose home was destroyed during the occupation. Living in an unsuitable outbuilding for over a year, the couple faced harsh conditions. With the support of Razom, local NGO “Mozhemo” and BUR volunteers, they transformed the outbuilding into a habitable space, installing windows, doors, and heating. This project was a testament to the power of collective effort and the profound impact of community support.
Renovating a Bomb Shelter in Korets, Rivne Region
From August to September 2023, volunteers worked on converting a radiation shelter into a creative space for youth. The initiative involved preparing and painting walls, decorating with artwork, and assembling furniture from pallets. This safe community space serves as a bomb shelter and now hosts various events, fostering creativity and social interaction among local youth. The project highlighted the successful partnership between municipal governments and community organizations.
Conclusion: Building a Brighter Future
The partnership between Building Ukraine Together and Razom exemplifies the power of unity and volunteerism in rebuilding war-torn communities. Through the combined efforts, they continue to transform lives, foster community cohesion, and inspire hope. As Ukraine faces ongoing challenges, the resilience and dedication of these organizations and their volunteers remain a powerful force for positive change.
Donate to Razom Relief today and join us in supporting Ukrainians and their efforts to rebuild their lives and communities!
We invite you to learn more and support Razom’s Relief Program.
Face the Future Ukraine: Advancing Reconstructive Surgery in Ivano-Frankivsk
The Face the Future Ukraine team, consisting of 15 specialists from Canada and the U.S., visited Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Hospital for the third time this spring to perform complex reconstructive surgeries. The team included reconstructive and plastic surgeons, an oculoplastic surgeon, an anesthesiologist, and nurses. They also shared their knowledge at the Third International Symposium for Surgeons “Reconstructive Surgery of Military Trauma of the Head and Neck” and the Third Symposium for Nurses “Peculiarities of Management of Patients with Military Trauma and Posttraumatic Disorders,” which saw over 130 surgeons and 230 nurses in attendance.
During their trip, the team performed 88 procedures on 32 severely injured Ukrainian heroes, focusing on major head and neck reconstruction. Collaborating with foreign colleagues provides Ukrainian surgeons a unique opportunity to diagnose complex injuries, plan treatments, and perform intricate reconstructive surgeries.
“Preparation for this mission begins long before our foreign colleagues arrive in Ukraine. Over the past five months, we have examined more than a hundred patients to plan surgeries, select specialists, and develop individual implants. It’s a big team effort. It’s very valuable that many surgeries are performed for the first time in the Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Hospital. During these missions, we not only restore the health of our soldiers but also learn from foreign colleagues and start performing new surgical interventions on our own,” says Nataliya Komashko, ENT, Head of the Ukrainian Medical Team.
“Every year, we conduct missions in different parts of the world, but in Ukraine, we encounter the most serious cases. No surgeon has faced such injuries unless they were in a war zone. We will return to Ukraine to help restore the faces of as many soldiers as possible. They are heroes who stand for the freedom of their people,” says Dr. Peter Adamson, founder of the Face the Future Foundation, who has just been awarded the prestigious Teasdale-Corti Award by The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC).
Nurses
The Face the Future nurses, led by Laurie Thomas, RN, set up a nursing training center and provided simulation models and stethoscopes for nurses to advance their skills. Laurie organized a stethoscope drive in Canada, donating dozens of stethoscopes during the conference. The team also developed protocols for a PACU (post-anesthesia care unit) and introduced this component of postoperative care in Ivano-Frankivsk hospital.
Personal Implants
A volunteer team of bioengineers from Materialise (3D printing company) designs and prints individual implants for patients. They provide an online platform for surgeons to recreate patient scans in 3D, allowing for a clear understanding of trauma and designing specific implants. This platform enables Ukrainian and Canadian surgeons to work together on the same patient, sharing documentation and collaborating comfortably.
Materialise engineers prepared 3D anatomy simulations and patient-specific 3D-printed implants for eight patients.
Medical Supplies
Medical supplies are vital for such projects, as many surgeries require specific instruments. Debbie Fritz, RN, Team Leader of Procurement, coordinates the needs of surgeons, leveraging connections with suppliers to secure donations or discounts. Razom procures critical supplies in Ukraine, which are then donated to the hospital.
Through targeted medical trips, conferences, and training sessions, providers working with the Razom Co-Pilot Project are empowering healthcare professionals, enhancing skills and methods, and ultimately improving surgical care in Ukraine.
We are immensely grateful to the Face the Future team for their continued support of Ukrainian healthcare:
– Dr. Peter Adamson, Chef de Mission
– Dr. Anthony E. Brissett, Mission Director
– Susan Truax, Administrative Support
– Dr. Josh Kain, Surgeon
– Dr. Irena Karanetz, Surgeon
– Dr. Vladimir Kratky, Surgeon
– Dr. Terry Taylor, Surgeon
– Dr. Burke Bradley, Anesthesiologist
– Amy Bradley, RN
– Debbie Fritz, RN, Team Leader for Procurement
– Maureen Merchant, RN
– Heather Leard, CST
– Laurie Thomas, RN, Head of RNs Team, Leader of Nursing Academic Day
– Bibi Yasin, RN
– Yurij Tsuvanyk, CST
– Pam Leeman, RN
We are thankful to all Ukrainian doctors, nurses, and medical professionals who tirelessly provide treatment to Ukrainian patients, both civilians and military, during the hardships of war.
Patient’s Story
“My daughter did not recognize me after the injury. I dream that the doctors will give me back my face,” said 29-year-old Oleksii before the operation. He was one of the 32 patients of the international mission of reconstructive surgeons Face the Future Ukraine in Ivano-Frankivsk.
Oleksii was seriously injured in the Donetsk area during an assault on enemy positions, where he came under mortar fire. His brother died, and Oleksii was severely injured in the face and hand. He was in a coma for five days and could not speak or eat for several months, but doctors managed to repair his face and final results will be visible in six months.
The humanitarian program “Face the Future Ukraine” was founded by Face the Future Foundation, Razom for Ukraine, and Still Strong to provide free reconstructive surgeries to Ukrainian patients and train Ukrainian surgeons. It is implemented in partnership with the CF “Patients of Ukraine,” the project “Rehabilitation of War Injuries,” the Ukrainian Association of Endoscopic Head and Neck Surgery, the Regional Clinical Hospital of the Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Council, Healing The Children North East, UMANA, Americares, with the support of the Embassy of Switzerland in Ukraine, Ivano-Frankivsk OVA, companies Metinvest, Nova Ukraine, Materialise, Yellow Blue Force Foundation, and Transmed.
Learn more about and support the Co-Pilot Project and Razom Health.
Advancing Women’s Health Care in Ukraine: Insights from Dr. Irena Karanetz and Dr. Alina Andriiv
The Current State of Women’s Health Care in Ukraine
Dr. Irena Karanetz, a renowned New York City plastic surgeon, provides an eye-opening assessment of the current state of women’s health care in Ukraine. Originally from Ukraine, Dr. Karanetz moved to Chicago at the age of 15 and trained in plastic surgery in New York. Through her connection toRazom, she joined the Face the Future Team of facial reconstructive surgeons in 2023, and has since participated in two medical trips to Ukraine. A dedicated member of the Ukrainian Medical Association of North America (UMANA), Dr. Karanetz is passionate about women’s health, particularly post-mastectomy breast reconstruction, and is committed to improving healthcare in her homeland. During her work with the Face the Future team in the Ivano-Frankivsk hospital, she had a chance to research cancer breast reconstruction options available for women in Ukraine and was inspired to bring to them her knowledge and expertise in this field.
“Public medicine has significant flaws,” Dr. Karanetz observes. “For instance, there might be only one mammogram machine available in an entire city, leading to months-long waits for cancer diagnoses.” She highlights the disparity between public and private healthcare facilities, noting that advanced treatments like implants for breast reconstruction are often unavailable in socialized medicine, creating a significant gap in care.
Dr. Alina Adriiv, the Medical Director of the Prykarpattia Oncology Center in Ivano-Frankivsk, shares these concerns. Dr. Adriiv, who has been working in oncology since 2010, previously served as an associate professor and head of the hormone-dependent tumors department at the oncology faculty. She holds a Candidate of Medical Sciences degree and has completed numerous international internships in the U.S., Israel, and across Europe.
Envisioning a Better Future
Both doctors envision a future when Ukrainian healthcare is significantly bolstered by international collaboration and the adoption of advanced medical techniques. Dr. Karanetz emphasizes the importance of training and equipping younger doctors to overcome the current limitations, such as lack of equipment and treatments, and seize future opportunities. Her efforts have included substantial donations of medical supplies, amounting to $100,000, to support breast reconstruction.
Dr. Adriiv shares this optimistic outlook. Her primary focus is not just on improving survival rates but also on enhancing the quality of life for women undergoing breast cancer treatment. “It’s important to support women not only physically but also psychologically,” she asserts. Dr. Adriiv aims to ensure that treatment guidelines are rigorously adhered to, reducing disparities in the quality of care.
The Role of Medical Conferences
A key highlight of their partnership was the organization of a major Breast Cancer Symposium in Ivano-Frankivsk. This event, the first of its scale in Prykarpattia, was a significant milestone for both doctors. Despite challenges such as securing sponsorships and dealing with limited state support, the symposium was a success.
It was Dr. Karanetz’s dream to hold an event like the Breast Cancer Symposium in Ukraine. With support from Dr. Adriiv, Dr. Natalia Komashko, and the CF Patients of Ukraine, she was able to realize this dream last spring, by combining her participation in the Face the Future medical trip with the symposium. The symposium featured live surgeries and presentations from leading oncologists and oncologic surgeons, offering invaluable learning experiences. Participants described it as a crucial platform for demonstrating new techniques and fostering professional growth among young surgeons.
Dr. Adriiv, who spearheaded the organization of the symposium, shares her experience: “The journey was incredibly challenging due to funding issues, but the outcome was rewarding. Many leading oncologists and surgeons participated, and the event was a significant step towards improving breast cancer care in Ukraine.” Her extensive network and international experience were instrumental in bringing together top professionals for this collaborative effort.
Written by Stephania Korenovsky
Learn more about and support the Co-Pilot Project and Razom Health.
Razom at the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2024: Building a Stronger Future
The future of Ukraine is bright, and Razom was proud to be a part of the recent Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2024) held in Berlin on June 11th and 12th, 2024.
This landmark conference, co-hosted by Germany and Ukraine, brought together over 3,000 attendees, including government officials, business leaders, activists, and dedicated Ukraine supporters. The goal was to chart a course for Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction, and long-term success.
At Razom, we believe in the power of civil society, the “third sector,” to play a vital role in rebuilding Ukraine. Our presence at URC2024 was about amplifying the voices of Ukrainians and advocating for their needs in the reconstruction process.
Seizing Russian Assets: A Major Step for Ukraine at the German Parliament
Razom’s busy week at the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2024) wasn’t just about sharing our story. We were involved in a critical parliamentary breakfast on seizing frozen Russian assets.
This historic event, co-hosted by the German Parliament, drew a record crowd and media attention. It directly influenced a powerful international letter urging the G7 to confiscate these assets. Learn more: HERE
Razom extends thanks to our German partners and applauds Yuliya Ziskina for her role in this success.
Building Bridges and Sharing Success
The Ukraine Recovery Conference was also about building connections and fostering collaboration. Razom seized the valuable opportunity to network with other civil society leaders from across Europe. This allowed us to share Razom’s story and the work we’re doing to support Ukraine on the ground.
One such connection proved particularly fruitful. We were excited to meet the team behind Himera, a Ukrainian tactical communication systems manufacturer. Razom actually purchases radios from Himera for our Razom Heroes Program, which equips Ukrainian first responders with vital communication tools! Learn more about Himera: HERE
A Look Ahead: Rebuilding Together
URC2024 was a resounding success, demonstrating a strong international commitment to supporting Ukraine. Razom is energized by the collaborative spirit and sense of purpose that emerged from the conference. We are confident that by working together – government, businesses, civil society, and everyday citizens – we can build a brighter future for Ukraine.
We invite you to join Razom in our ongoing efforts to support Ukraine. Visit our Programs page to learn more about our work and see how you can contribute.
Let’s keep the momentum going! Together, we stand with Ukraine.
Razom Relief: Helping Ukrainian Frontiers (Українські Рубежі) Rescue Kharkiv Residents
Kharkiv, a key city in northeastern Ukraine, has been on the front lines since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Despite these last few weeks of intense fighting and ruthless aerial assaults, the city remains under Ukrainian control. However, as ever, the victims of these last rounds of fighting were civilians: families have been split apart and left trapped in the war zone.
There is help on the ground.
Thanks to Razom’s swift response, the local organization Ukrainian Frontiers (Українські Рубежі) received a critical grant through our Relief program. Ukrainian Frontiers has been on the front lines since the emergency began, tirelessly evacuating people from affected areas. Our grant ensured that they can continue these efforts by covering fuel, car repairs, driver salaries, and other essentials needed to safely relocate 350 people.
Despite constant shelling that hinders access to some residents, Ukrainian Frontiers’ well-equipped transportation network and strong working relationship with the military are enabling critical rescues.
Our grantees shared with us many stories from the ground. The evacuees carried the weight of loss and uncertainty. Yet, even in despair, there was strength of spirit. A young girl, clutching a tattered teddy bear, managed a small smile. An old man, his eyes filled with gratitude, insisted on sharing his meager food with others. These are powerful reminders of the potential for human endurance during a crisis.
Beyond Evacuation: A Support Network
Razom’s grant arrived at a pivotal moment, allowing Ukrainian Frontiers to do more than just evacuate residents. They became a vital support network, finding shelter for the displaced, reuniting families torn apart by war. Their work exemplifies how donations to Razom make a real difference on the ground during emergencies.
Things calmed down a bit in June for Ukrainian Frontiers, but the war still remains and they know their work is far from over. As the situation develops, their team is ready to help in other areas. With your continued support through Razom, Ukrainian Frontiers will keep providing hope, saving lives one by one.
How You Can Help
Donate to Razom for Ukraine today and help empower heroes like Ukrainian Frontiers who are delivering hope where it’s needed most.
