Solutions from Ukraine: veterans with disabilities try adaptive skiing in Kyiv
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
On Holosiiv Hill in Kyiv, war veterans had their first introductory session on adaptive skis. These specialized chairs enable individuals with disabilities to participate in winter sports.
The Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine reported that.
What is the solution?
Ukraine's Minister of Veterans Affairs, Nataliia Kalmykova, highlighted that promoting sports for veterans is a key initiative of the Ministry. This effort is part of implementing the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Space in Ukraine, spearheaded by the First Lady.
"We're focused on making sports accessible everywhere, ensuring both financial and geographical reach, and providing the chance to engage in challenging sports like alpine skiing. Although the project started recently, we're already seeing impressive results. The veterans perform exceptionally well on the slopes, showcasing skills many people can't match. It's truly remarkable. We're currently refining the processes to expand this sport to other regions of Ukraine," the head of the department noted.
How does it work?
The department said that 10 veterans tested a new technique that helps improve physical fitness, emotional state, and mental health. Patrons from Norway provided the skis, and local instructors underwent specialized training in Italy.
In addition, members of the Ukrainian national team are also training on adaptive skis to participate in the Invictus Games in Canada.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
Oleksandr Tolochenko, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war who was seriously injured in 2023, also tried adaptive skiing.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
"It was really tough emotionally. I felt like I wouldn't be able to do anything except get around in a wheelchair. But sports helped me conquer those fears and return to living an active life. I hope every injured soldier finds the sport right for them," Oleksandr said.
The Ministry of Veterans Affairs has actively involved the veteran community in sports for several years: the country holds all-Ukrainian sports competitions among war veterans, and Ukrainian teams represent Ukraine at international sports events among veterans and demonstrate strong results.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
Thanks to these initiatives, Ukraine is genuinely advancing in developing adaptive sports to continue rehabilitation, says Tetiana Lomakina, the President's Commissioner for Accessibility.
"I urge city councils and mayors across Ukraine to establish conditions for developing adaptive sports in every community. This will enable our returning defenders to find opportunities to engage in sports they are interested in. Today, we saw skiing as an example.
This means veterans can use this activity for physical and emotional healing. However, we need the proper infrastructure to make this a reality: adapting existing community sports facilities and training coaches to work with diverse individuals. This process is already underway in many communities," Tetiana Lomakina said.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
The National University of Physical Education and Sports of Ukraine joined the training organization. The university provides a technical base for the rehabilitation of veterans and promotes the development of the Ministry of Veterans initiatives.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
Vadym Svyrydenko, Presidential Commissioner for the Rehabilitation of War Veterans, emphasized that this sports area in Ukraine is just beginning to develop but already demonstrates excellent potential.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
"Today, guys with various types of amputations came and tried themselves in this sport. The instructors who work with them are already trained. French specialists came to us to train our coaches. That is, we are looking for different opportunities. And I am sure that we will only develop this area. We plan to expand them and involve more of our military in this," the Commissioner of the President of Ukraine noted.
Photo: Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine
For reference:
The Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine's project "Development of Sports for Veterans" is within the framework of the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Space in Ukraine, which is being implemented at the initiative of the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska.
It should be noted that war veterans will receive financial assistance for physical education and sports. The Cabinet of Ministers adopted a corresponding resolution.
