December Visit to Ukraine: Dmytro's Story

In December 2024, Lena Denman met Dmytro Polovyan.

Dmytro went to the frontlines after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He felt called to serve alongside those he had trained while he served as a civilian instructor. While on the frontlines, Dymtro was injured and captured. He was held captive by Russia for three months, and his brother-in-arms was held captive for two years.

After Dmytro was released from captivity, he spent time recovering from his injuries. He now serves at the very center that helped him rehabilitate, helping other veterans recover from their mental and physical injuries.

In this video, Dmytro speaks about a trip he took to Las Vegas. While there, some members of the United States Marine Corps gifted him a flag to commemorate the time they spent together. He also noted that many of the supplies that Ukraine uses and needs most right now are supplied by the US: medical equipment, rehabilitation equipment, and Dmytro's own wheelchair.

Dmytro is very thankful for the support that the US has shown Ukraine. He reflected on his positive experiences in Las Vegas and the equipment his rehab facility has used. He shared his gratitude by sharing a Ukrainian flag with Lena.

Thank you, Dmytro, for sharing your story with ACHF. We are thankful to share your words with others.

Thank you to our generous donors and the United Methodist Committee On Relief, who helped to fund this trip to Ukraine. These in-person experiences are immensely valuable to our nonprofit's connections.