The “Wings of Victory” charity, through its “Aybolit: On the Way to Recovery” project, creates safe spaces for emotional healing and stress relief.
Today’s nature trip became unexpectedly magical, as a gentle rain added freshness and tranquility to the atmosphere. During the drive to our therapeutic retreat location, the veterans bonded and transformed into a cohesive team, ready to engage in any activity.
Working together, we set up the dining area and lit the grill. While some prepared the barbecue, others organized art supplies and distributed paints for decorating eco-bags.
Field excursions always require significant preparation, which is why most of the Aybolit team participates actively. Today, psychologist Viktoria Kost collaborated with our permanent help Veronika, a schoolgirl from Irpin, who assisted in art therapy. Svitlana Rudneva (renowned for her baking skills) helped veterans complete questionnaires, Pavlo Parkhomenko managed food logistics, and driver Andriy Lytvynenko made multiple trips to pick up participants since our two buses and my car could not accommodate all in one run. As founder of Aybolit and head of Wings of Victory, I (Viktoria Kramarenko) oversaw operations.
Notably, psychologist Viktoria remained engaged with veterans throughout the entire event.
The sports segment revealed surprises:
- Badminton unexpectedly emerged as a crowd favorite, with teams forming spontaneously for doubles and triples matches
- Though soccer balls initially sat unused, a spirited football match soon became the center of excitement
- Even adult participants rediscovered childhood joy on the swings
The art therapy session stood out, with Victoria Kost’s inspired idea to paint eco-bags. Participants chose designs reflecting personal tastes, using quick-drying, water-resistant paints to create lasting mementos.
The camaraderie was so strong that an overnight camping experience under the stars would have been welcomed. We shared songs and wartime memories openly around the communal table.
Many veterans expressed how Barcelona, our therapy mare, would have enhanced the experience with her gentle presence—a testament to her impact in previous sessions.
Given Aybolit’s medical focus, I addressed Ukraine’s current tick-borne disease risks. The discussion covered Lyme disease prevention (transmitted by ixodid ticks), bite first aid, and treatment protocols, supplemented by real cases from my clinical experience.
Heartfelt conversations revealed veterans’ emotional scars—wounds that paradoxically united us through shared vulnerability. Though planned for 14 participants, 17 attended, and the harmony among them surpassed expectations.
My deepest gratitude to these courageous souls whose hearts, though scarred, overflow with resilience and the desire to contribute meaningfully to civilian life. Our mission remains clear: to support those whom society often fails to appreciate adequately.
To our defenders—your sacrifices inspire us. We honor you.
‼ This initiative is realized by the Wings of Victory charity within the Capable and Resistant Program implemented by the East Europe Foundation with the financial support of Switzerland.
Stand Strong!
