The Story of Restoration: The Path of Yevhen Smaga

Recovering from injury is not only a physical rehabilitation, but also a complex emotional, psychological and creative process. One of the veterans who has gone through this difficult path is Yevhen Smaga from Chernihiv, who was wounded while defending his city. His story is a story of courage, brotherhood, creativity and the ability to find the strength to recover with the support of the Veterans’ Community of Ukraine “Sertsevir”.

Injuries and the first steps to recovery

Yevhen was seriously injured in March 2022 during hostilities on the outskirts of Novoselivka. Due to mortar shelling, he lost his leg, which radically changed his life. This moment marked the beginning of a difficult period, but the support from his comrades and specialists of the AFU “Sertsevir” organization played a decisive role. From the very beginning, Yevhen was surrounded by people who had gone through a similar path and knew how to provide the necessary support.

Physical rehabilitation, sports and modern technologies

Yevgen’s rehabilitation program included intensive physical exercises and training using the latest prosthetic technologies. An inclusive gym is equipped in the premises of the APU “Sertsevir” organization, where veterans undergo training to strengthen muscles and increase motor activity. Yevgen actively plays sports four times a week, which has become a key element of his recovery.

In October 2023, Yevgen visited Madrid, where he set a world record in strongman during the Arnold Classic Europe international sports festival. He pulled four trucks with a total weight of 35 tons in 30.69 seconds, which was recorded as a Guinness record. This feat became a symbol of his indomitability and strength of spirit.

Psychological support, creativity and the importance of brotherhood

One of the biggest psychological challenges for veterans is the feeling of alienation and a change in personal identity. In such cases, creativity and support from fellow veterans become an integral part of the rehabilitation process. Yevhen became one of the founders of the veterans’ theater “Sertsevir”, where veterans express their feelings and experiences through theatrical activities.

Together with psychologists and specially trained instructors, Yevhen worked on overcoming anxiety and disappointments, learned new strategies for stress management. Participation in creative projects gave him the opportunity to feel part of a community and find new meanings in life.

New skills and a return to an active life

After undergoing physical and psychological rehabilitation, Yevhen decided to acquire new professional skills. He won a grant from the state for a car wash project under the “eRobota” program and plans to open his own business in Chernihiv next year. This not only opens up new employment opportunities, but also gives him confidence that he can support himself and other veterans.

In his free time, Yevhen works as a taxi driver, demonstrating that limitations are only in your head. His example inspires other veterans not to stop in the face of difficulties and to find ways to fulfill themselves.

A story of strength, creativity and hope

The story of Yevhen Smaga and many other veterans who overcome the path from injury to recovery demonstrates the importance of social and creative initiatives for rehabilitation. Yevhen and his comrades become an example of courage, dedication to life and a creative approach to overcoming challenges. Step by step, thanks to modern technologies, professional support and true brotherhood, veterans like Yevhen find their place in peaceful life and inspire others to continue moving forward.

This story of recovery is an important example for society, which has the opportunity to see how veterans return to life, actively adapt to new conditions, engage in creativity and become an integral part of the development of Ukraine.