Contestant of the regional competition "Young Person of the Year – 2025" in the "On Guard for Life" category Olena Probachai
"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. Thank you for the recovery." I heard this phrase from a soldier from the Donetsk region when we finished our physical therapy session. At that moment, I finally understood that I had not made a mistake in choosing my profession, because feeling gratitude is an integral part of our collaboration.
My name is Olena. I was born in the village of Staromlynivka, Volnovakha district, where combat operations began in 2014. We lived in fear and at the same time with the hope that everything would end soon. It was difficult to make plans, but when I completed my secondary education, I had to choose a profession to dedicate my life to. In 2018, I entered a medical university. That's when my journey into rehabilitation began. Physical therapy is a multifaceted and adaptable field that all parts of our population need: children, adults, civilians, and, most importantly, the military. For me personally, the most crucial factor at that time was helping our defenders recover. And with the start of Russia's full-scale military aggression against Ukraine, I became even more certain of my choice.
And now, with two years of practical experience behind me, I can confidently say: yes, physical therapy is my calling, a job in which I feel value and a significant need for our people.
Soldiers often arrive silently, their eyes sometimes showing no hope, only fatigue and pain. We start with small steps: from a conversation to light exercises that progress to more intensive sessions, because those who have been in combat need not only treatment but also human attention. It's a daily choice to move when you want to stop, to get up when it seems like you can't go on. It's when every step that used to seem normal now requires effort, patience, and faith. And you see their successes and results, you are glad that you can help them regain their faith in life, to find strength despite the trauma they have experienced. Because a month ago, the soldier was independent and strong, and today you are re-teaching them how to move and restore self-care skills.
Life in war can break you mentally and physically, and physical therapy is not just a job—it's what helps people return to life, to the path of their dreams. Every day I feel that I am not living in vain. Every smile, sometimes reluctant and through pain, is a gift and a confirmation that I am on the right path. Either fight or work for Victory—this is the motto every Ukrainian should live by, as it will bring the long-awaited day much closer. I am grateful for my profession, that I have the honor of helping to restore the people who are bringing my return to my homeland, to my native Donetsk region, to Staromlynivka. Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Armed Forces of Ukraine!