The soldier Oleksandr received a bionic prosthetic arm

Modern warfare demands not only bravery but also the ability to adapt to ever-changing conditions. One of the unbreakable defenders embodying this spirit is Alexander, callsign "Raccoon", who continues to live and work after a severe injury, inspiring others with his resilience.

Oleksandr, a former anti-tank soldier, worked on the front line as a drone operator. His new speciality was a response to the challenges of war - drones allow for effective detection and destruction of the enemy at great distances.

During one of his missions, he and his team worked in a combat zone. The task was not easy: enemy troops began to move actively to counterattack, posing a threat to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Oleksandr was setting up a drone for a reconnaissance operation when a sudden attack took place.

‘We were working on destroying the enemy during my unit's assault operations. Just as I was setting up the drone, an enemy mine arrived. It hit right next to me, throwing me back in a blast wave,’ Oleksandr recalls.

Oleksandr was seriously wounded, resulting in the loss of his arm. Thanks to the quick actions of his colleagues and evacuation, he was taken to the nearest hospital, where, after stabilisation, he began a long rehabilitation process.

Thanks to the activities of our organisation, Oleksandr gained access to modern prosthetic technology. Specialists from the prosthesis manufacturer Esper Bionics, together with doctors, determined which type of prosthesis would be best suited for Oleksandr, taking into account his physical condition and needs. It was decided to provide Oleksandr with a bionic prosthesis. This type of prosthesis is capable of performing complex functions thanks to modern technology and integration with nerve impulses.

‘I quickly mastered the prosthesis. Thanks to the available app and the support of physical therapists, I was able to perform basic movements in just a few days. It was a real breakthrough for me,’ says Oleksandr.

He describes the process of adapting to the prosthesis as relatively easy thanks to his good physical fitness. He goes in for sports, which has helped him maintain muscle strength and mobility. The bionic prosthesis allows him to perform about 80% of the functions his arm used to perform. However, there are limitations.

‘Bionics is very sensitive to conditions - water, dirt, temperature changes. This makes you be careful. But I'm grateful for the opportunity to return to an almost full life,’ says Oleksandr.

The prosthesis allows him to work with drones and do household chores. But most importantly, it helps Oleksandr remain useful at the front, continue his service and train other soldiers to work with drones.

This story is an example of how modern technology, the support of caring people and the strength of mind can help overcome the most difficult challenges. Oleksandr, with the call sign ‘Raccoon’, remains a symbol of courage, steadfastness and faith in a better future.