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The Kyiv office of Leleka Foundation is always glad to welcome medics from the frontlines — those whom we proudly support. Meeting in person, sharing conversations over coffee, and exchanging energy with "our own" is vital for both our military personnel and volunteers.
Recently, we had the honor of hosting Dmytro, a businessman from the United States, who returned to Ukraine in 2022 to join the ranks of volunteer medics. He is currently serving in a tank brigade. We had a heartfelt conversation that we would like to share, with Dmytro’s permission.
Dmytro, why did you decide to return to Ukraine from the United States?
I emigrated to the United States with my parents in 1995 and graduated from a university there. I chose to build my career in Ukraine because it would have been more challenging to succeed in America. Here, my American diploma opened up great opportunities. Plus, my girlfriend lived in Ukraine, and we maintained a long-distance relationship.
From 2000 to 2013, I worked as a financial director and head of the real estate department in a foreign company in Kyiv. After business owners sold their assets, I returned to America, got married for the second time, and had a son. But after the full-scale invasion began, particularly after the horrific images from Bucha were published in the media, I realized that I couldn’t sit idly by. I felt compelled to defend the country I love with all my heart.
How did your family react to your decision to defend Ukraine?
My parents are elderly, and they don’t know that I’m serving in the Armed Forces. For two years now, I’ve been telling them I’m building a business in Lviv. My two adult daughters from my first marriage live in Kyiv, and they fully supported my decision to serve — they’re very proud of their father. My wife in the United States didn’t understand my motives, so we divorced before I left.
Why did you choose to become a combat medic?
I’ve had a long-standing interest in tactical medicine. I started by watching countless videos online, reading extensively, and completing the CLS course. After that, I purchased some gear and, at 47, embarked on a new chapter of life. Once in Ukraine, I received professional training, registered with the military, and completed my preparations. This was followed by 9 months of intense work at a stabilization point — on duty 6 days a week. It was exhausting but necessary. While I knew the theory well, I lacked practical experience. Now, I’m stationed in the Kharkiv region, training personnel and saving lives of my comrades.
Have there been any moments in the past two years that impacted you the most?
Yes, sadly, one of our soldiers died in our arms on the battlefield — his injuries were beyond saving. We were in a remote area with no cell phone service. As we were packing up his personal belongings, a message popped up on his phone from his loved woman. She had texted, saying she was worried and asking how he was. But there was no mobile service there — how the message got through, just minutes after he passed, remains a mystery. It was heartbreaking to know he would never be able to reply to her.
Another moment that stays with me happened after I finished my duty at the evacuation center and trained some soldiers in tactical medicine. Not long after, they went on a combat mission. I received a message from one of them: “Thank you for the training. I was able to react quickly, tamponade my comrade’s wound, apply a tourniquet on myself, and pull him to safety.” Knowing that I’ve helped save lives makes it all worth it. Returning from America was the right decision, even if it means saving just one life.
How did you first hear about Leleka?
I came across a post from Leleka Foundation on Facebook, probably because of my interest in tactical medicine and the military. I applied for a field medic's backpack since I didn’t have one at the time. Shortly after, I was contacted by the foundation, and to my surprise, it was Iryna, the head of the organization in Ukraine. Within a few days, I received an incredible Tasmanian Tiger backpack (a globally renowned military gear brand). During my leave, I decided to visit the team who supported me personally. I just wanted to say thank-you in person and bring a box of chocolates to show my gratitude for their powerful support of medics on the frontline.
Have you thought about what you’ll do or where you’ll live after the war?
Right now, the main goal is to win the war. After that, my friends and I — many of whom are doctors — hope to open free rehabilitation centers for veterans. We're currently working on the project and drafting treatment protocols.
What would you like to say to civilians back home?
You never know when the war will come to you. That’s why everyone — both adults and kids — needs to know how to give first aid. Please learn it. It could save your life or someone else’s.
In reality, I believe another battle awaits us — the fight against corruption and the need for a profound societal change. We cannot give up; we must continue the fight to the very end. For the sake of our brothers and sisters who gave their lives for the future of Ukraine — a nation that is free, independent, civilized, and free from bribery and nepotism. We want our children to live here happily, without ever feeling ashamed of us.