In June, the MOAS team from Malta joined the mission in Ukraine and had the chance to meet with some members of the local staff of doctors, paramedics and drivers that conduct medical evacuation of injured soldiers from the frontline. We had the privilege to see first-hand how the operations are taken out and witness how our dedicated team is making a difference between death and life. In this blog we share our impressions and reflections about this life-changing experience.
Christina Lejman, Director of Operations
“When we went out to Ukraine to visit our teams on the front line of this global crisis, I expected to find professionalism and dedication in the face of extreme personal sacrifice. What I did not expect was the incredible kindness, humility and generous nature of spirit I encountered wherever we went. There seemed to be a deep and ingrained understanding that, although we had never met and that the Malta team’s work is lmainy administrative, we were one single unit, working together toward a shared goal. I found our medics, drivers and logisticians incredibly generous with their time and credit for the achievements of MOAS across these past two years. As a humanitarian, I am used to working with the vulnerable, and hearing stories of deprivation and struggle, but the accounts of those who have lost loved ones or been separated from them by displacement and occupation, were some of the most heartbreaking to date. It was immediately clear to me that our Ukrainian staff give 150% to the operation, and take great pride in, and responsibility for, the work they do on a daily basis, all without expecting any recognition or praise. It was an honour and a privilege to spend time with them and to put faces to the names and voices we’ve interacted with thus far.
The teams expressed to me their deepest wish, which is to be put out of a job by a cessation in this endless violence, so that their country can begin to recover from this national trauma, and their families can be reunited after years apart. I add my hope to theirs, but in the meantime, this trip has made us more determined than ever to support our brave field-team in any way we possibly can, for as long as this work is necessary.”
Francesca Pierpaoli, PR & Communication Manager
“It’s seven in the morning when Vitalyi, the head of security and logistics at one of the MOAS stations in eastern Ukraine, knocks on my door. It’s time for me to leave for a medical evacuation. Since the day before, together with my colleagues, I have been at one of the bases where wounded soldiers’ rescue and transport operations start. The war front is only a handful of kilometres away, and the sound of battle can be heard in the distance. The headquarters is housed in a former orphanage with several socialization areas, a kitchen, bathrooms, and, of course, a bomb shelter.
Vitalyi takes me to the entrance. I put on my bulletproof vest and get into the ambulance. Vassilyi, an anesthesiologist, and Sergej, a paramedic, are with me while Taras is driving. Vassilyi is the only one who speaks English, and he explains to me that he has been working with MOAS for about six months, putting all his effort into saving the lives of the patients entrusted to him. We head to the military hospital to pick up a seriously injured soldier who needs urgent treatment at a specialized medical centre. Once we arrive, the patient is quickly transferred to the ambulance: a short update on his condition and the medical records, and off we go again. The nearest hospital is at least three hours away, and the ambulance speeds along empty streets, through semi-deserted villages, between abandoned houses and barred windows. The patient, sedated and intubated, lies right next to me. He is a big man. Vassilyi explains to me that he is 37 years old and has suffered serious artillery trauma to the head. During the journey, there is little talk. The doctor and medic are concentrated, continuously monitoring the man’s condition and vital parameters. The ambulance has sophisticated and cutting-edge equipment, greatly facilitating medical operations. As every drip, every blood pressure reading is carefully recorded, I feel helpless and find myself praying for the life of this man injured while he was fighting for his country.
Once we arrive at the regional hospital, everything happens again quickly: the patient is brought in, and the medical records are handed over to the medical colleagues. The evacuation is successfully completed, like all those conducted so far by MOAS, and the staff is ready to return to base. For me, however, it’s time to reunite with my colleagues and return to Kiev, carrying in my heart this special day forever.”
Albert Delia – Fundraising and Development Offricer
“One generally encounters war through the distant medium of a screen, either that of their phone or a computer. Alternatively, it could be through written form, a history book or an article reporting on the damage and loss of life being experienced in far away lands. Being given the opportunity to visit Ukraine during its invasion yanks away this shroud of impersonal distance. When you meet face to face with the people who’s lives have been radically altered as a result of the unbridled pursuit of power and domination, this perspective shifts. During our field visit I had the opportunity to get to know my Ukrainian colleagues working tirelessly on the front lines to provide essential medical services to those injured because of this conflict. I was blown away by the kindness and professionalism of these people who made us feel safe and welcome despite the air raids and constant military checkpoints. While there, we heard countless stories of lives before the war, estate agents and full-time musicians turned ambulance drivers and logistics managers, children sent to the safety of neighbouring countries and families separated as a result of circumstance and a sense of duty. Although I’m certain that no one wanted these forced transitions and after having shook the hands of and spent time with these everyday heroes, all I can hope for after my experience, is that they will hopefully, someday soon, return to the normality of their lives before the war.”
Dejan Jovcheski, Finance and Admin Officer
“I recently had the honor of joining our frontline emergency paramedical team in Ukraine, and it was an experience I’ll never forget. Seeing firsthand the incredible efforts that go into saving lives amidst the chaos of war was both humbling and inspiring. One moment that stands out was when we successfully transported and cared for a wounded soldier. Our team’s dedication and tireless work made all the difference. Being part of this mission was incredibly emotional and exciting, and I’ll cherish it forever. During my time with the team, I was deeply impressed by their professionalism and expertise. Every minute, they treated each patient with utmost care and precision. This experience has deepened my admiration for the courageous individuals working on the frontlines. Their unwavering dedication to saving lives is truly inspiring. It reinforced for me the importance of our collective efforts to support them. Their strength and spirit are a testament to the best of humanity.”
Alina Stoliarova, Financial Assistant
“I’d like to share my thoughts on the work of the MOAS charitable organization, currently dedicated to saving Ukrainian soldiers’ lives and providing medical care to civilians. First and foremost, I am grateful for the warm welcome and excellent organization of our trip. Regarding the evacuation operations, I must commend the professionalism of the team comprising doctors and drivers. They all work towards a common goal: saving lives. Upon receiving a distress call, the team mobilizss within minutes and heads to the frontline hospital. There, they swiftly transfer the injured soldies, who have already received initial medical care, to the nearest hospital for specialized treatment. This journey can sometimes take 2-3 hours. Throughout this critical time, the doctors ensure the wounded remain stable, significantly enhancing their chances of survival. The ambulances meet modern standards and are stocked with all necessary medications. Furthermore, the medical staff undergo continuous training, including in tactical medicine. I am deeply impressed and grateful for their tireless work, day in and day out, with minimal breaks. Their dedication is truly commendable, and they deserve recognition for their incredible efforts.”
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