Oleksandr Tereshchenko, a veteran from Mykolaiv who lost both his arms while defending the country, has filmed a series of video tips for people who have experienced amputation. The project ‘I did it and you can do it!’ aims to help people with amputations adapt to independent living, teach them the basics of self-care in everyday life and return them to an active existence. This was reported by Rubrika media outlet.
The veteran has created 14 videos that provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform everyday tasks without arms or legs. In the video tips, Tereshchenko shows how to dress, cook, perform hygiene procedures, including showering and brushing teeth, and how to drive a car without hands. In addition, the videos cover important aspects of everyday life, such as toilet arrangements or how to make coffee without prostheses.
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The project was implemented with the support of the US Embassy in Ukraine. Tereshchenko, who is an alumnus of the Congressional Open World Programme, approached the Embassy with the initiative to create this socially important project. He is grateful to his American partners for the grant that allowed him to shoot nine videos, but some of the content was created without funding, in partnership with other organisations.
Currently, eight video tips are available on the project’s YouTube channel, and the rest are being published gradually to maintain interest in the content. In addition to the video tips, several podcasts have been recorded in which veterans share their experiences of social adaptation after serious injuries.
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Despite the fact that the project’s funding from the US Embassy has been completed, the team of veterans plans to apply to Ukrainian and European grantors to continue their important work. Tereshchenko notes that it is important for him not only to receive additional funds, but also to make sure that more people learn about the project and are able to take advantage of the advice provided.
The project also draws attention to other veterans’ initiatives. For example, the NGO Active Rehabilitation Group, together with the League of the Strong, is implementing a programme to help people with disabilities, including advice on housing arrangements. Other human rights organisations, such as Principle, study veterans’ issues and provide legal services for servicemen and their families.
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