Tourniquets and Training: Emergency Medical Aid Against War’s Toll in Ukraine

By Sofiia Tiapkina

Amidst the thunder of artillery and russia’s incessant shelling, Ukrainian civilians unwillingly find themselves in a zone of combat. People have to live in a constant state of fear, and over the grueling years of war, a new set of priorities have emerged in the towns and cities across Ukraine. A new way of life, where tourniquets, thermal blankets, eye shields, and pressure bandages are an everyday necessity rather than something you see on a TV medical drama.

Since the very first days of the full-scale invasion, Nova Ukraine has become a pivotal force in delivering critical tactical medical supplies and training to Ukraine. Our capabilities have grown from offering a few items to now offering fully staffed medical backpacks with 40+ highly sought-after, life-saving items. We work with communities, hospitals, volunteers, and local governments to ensure that those at risk of being injured have access to emergency medical supplies. 

To amplify our impact, Nova Ukraine has been collaborating with the Leleka Foundation, Patriot Association, Rebel Volunteers charity, and many other on-the-ground partners to facilitate the purchase and distribution of critical supplies. Among the many tireless efforts are

• Delivering 2.5 million hrivnas (65,112 USD) worth of tactical medicine supplies with the Patriot Association
• Regularly distributing over 400 tourniquets, 150 pressure bandages, 200 chest seals, 100 eye shields, and 150 thermal blankets with Rebel Volunteers
• Working with Leleka Foundation to get pelvic splints, intraosseous accesses, boa rings, heavy-duty scissors, body bags

And much more — all at the wholesale prices, no less. We thank every person involved in this ceaseless fight to protect the people of Ukraine. 

We also recognize that equipment alone is not enough. Knowledge is power. But when you know how to provide first aid, it’s a superpower. Among the new priorities of a regular Ukrainian, specific medical knowledge can be the difference between life and death, especially for those who live near the frontline. Through our partnerships with first-aid medicine training organizations, Nova Ukraine has been educating civilians and volunteers alike. In Lviv or Donetsk, Novhorod-Siverskyi or Kharkiv, Sumy or Rivne, Ukrainians are training how to apply a tourniquet, insert a decompression needle, or give chest compressions. Because of russia’s brutal war, these are the new skills that every Ukrainian must learn. 

Together, we have delivered countless medical supplies and invaluable training. Yet, as the shelling doesn’t stop, the need for comprehensive support has never been greater. Emergency medicine is a necessity everywhere in Ukraine. 

To contribute to Nova Ukraine’s life-saving mission, please visit https://novaukraine.org/donate/. Your support can help equip Ukrainians on the ground with the necessary tools to save lives and provide the training needed to make every second count. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of the people of Ukraine and bring hope to those who need it most in these dire times.

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