Kryvyi Rih continues to develop large-scale programmes to support veterans. One of the most successful initiatives is the "Free Waves" project, which helps servicemen undergo physical and psychological rehabilitation through swimming. The initiative is being implemented with the support of the City Defence Council and Metinvest Group.
Swimming as a path to recovery. In Kryvyi Rih, veterans undergo physical and psychological rehabilitation as part of the "Free Waves" project. Over the one and a half years since its launch, almost 100 defenders have already completed recovery through swimming, and the number of training sessions has reached 700.
"Kryvyi Rih is a geographically extensive city, so we organised training sessions in two districts – Saksahanskyi and Inhuletskyi. We ensured inclusivity and safe training conditions – the pools are equipped with special lifts for comfortable access to the water. Thanks to unique methodologies, our guys undergo truly high-quality rehabilitation. I sincerely thank Denys for his dedication and professional support. We will continue to make every effort to develop this project. Recruitment for new groups is ongoing," said Oleksandr VILKUL, Head of the Defence Council.
During the rehabilitation course, participants adapt to physical activity, improve mobility and restore their emotional state. For many veterans, it is also an opportunity to return to an active social life, find support and motivation to move forward.
"In my youth, I enjoyed swimming, but then came work at Inhulets Iron Ore, family responsibilities and other interests, so there was no time for myself. Then came the war, mobilisation, combat participation and a serious injury. When I was offered to join a swimming group to improve my health, I had serious doubts. How can you swim with one arm? I came to the pool very weak, barely able to swim 25 metres. But gradually things improved. Thanks to our determined coach Oksana Petruchenko, I began to overcome barriers and swim better. Speaking from personal experience, this is a very effective rehabilitation programme," said Oleksandr LUHOVSKYI, a veteran and employee of Inhulets Iron Ore.
Training sessions are conducted using proprietary methods developed by renowned Ukrainian athlete, world and European swimming champion and Olympic silver medallist Denys Sylantiev. The programme combines sports training, rehabilitation elements and safe water-based exercise. With the support of the city and Metinvest, the pools have been equipped with special lifts for veterans with injuries and reduced mobility. Water helps reduce stress on the joints, restore muscles and return endurance to the body, says Denys SYLANTIEV.
"A coach works with veterans in the pool on an individual basis. The coach assesses each person's condition – whether they have injuries, concussion or an amputation – and assigns exercises ranging from simple to more complex. Veterans are taught how to move in the water and breathe correctly. With regular attendance, good results can be seen within two to three months. We had a case where a man arrived on crutches and could hardly feel his injured limb. Due to limited mobility, he could no longer perform his job. But after six months of training, sensitivity in his leg returned and the veteran gave up his crutches. He has now returned to his favourite job and a full life."
Metinvest Group systematically supports social and rehabilitation initiatives for veterans. The company contributes to creating conditions in which servicemen can not only recover but also feel care and support.
"When veterans began returning, we at Metinvest launched systematic work on adaptation and reintegration programmes. We clearly understand that returning from war requires comprehensive support – physical, psychological and professional. Today, the company provides veterans with opportunities for training and retraining in production, participation in psychological recovery programmes and physical rehabilitation. Preferential admission conditions to the modern technical university Metinvest Polytechnic are also available. Metinvest also supports city and national initiatives. One such important project is "Free Waves", in which the company has invested UAH 4.4 million over one and a half years. I thank our project partners, specialists, trainers and organisers – everyone who helps create opportunities for veterans' recovery and their return to civilian life. And we express great respect and gratitude to our defenders," said Andrii SHCHERBAK, Director for HR and Social Affairs at Metinvest Integrated Iron Ore Plants.
Investments in sports and social programmes are a contribution to returning defenders to a full life and building a strong veteran community in Kryvyi Rih. This is the view of Olena LESHCHENKO, Director of the NGO "Kryvyi Rih Foundation for the Future."
"When we see with our own eyes how our veterans regain strength, restore freedom of movement and confidence, we understand that we are moving in the right direction. 'Free Waves' offers an effective programme that many more injured people need. Therefore, we remind you that recruitment for new rehabilitation swimming groups is ongoing."
