In Zaporizhia, veterans and active duty military can now complete swimming rehabilitation free of charge, based on a one-off method developed by Denys Sylantiev.
Veterans are taking part in the Free Waves rehabilitation programme, which offers complimentary swimming sessions. The initiative was launched in July by swimmer and community activist Denys Sylantiev and is financially supported by Metinvest and Zaporizhstal in collaboration with Zaporizhia. Platform for Joint Action CSO.
One of the participants, Oleksandr Triukhan, joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the start of the full-scale war and participated in the summer counteroffensive in Zaporizhia axis in 2023.
After sustaining injuries, Oleksandr was discharged from service. He is currently completing rehabilitation at the pool as part of the Free Waves project and is already feeling the benefits of these sessions.
“I suffered many concussions and had pinched spinal nerves. For a whole year after my injuries, I saw no improvement. Now, after just two sessions in the pool, I already feel some relief. I believe this programme must go on, and we need more rehabilitation centres like this for service members,” said Oleksandr.
Free Waves sessions for veterans take place three times a week.
According to swimming coach Serhiy Proniaiev, each participant requires a tailored programme based on their injuries, and an ad hoc plan was developed for Oleksandr Triukhan as well.
“Oleksandr has issues with his leg and back. It’s very difficult for him to sit, turn, or walk. In the water, we are currently focusing on walking and overcoming resistance. We also practise breathing techniques, help him lie in the water, make turns, and move against resistance. The water provides feedback, and I believe he will feel much better soon,” said Serhiy PRONIAIEV.
Oleksandr says he wants to continue swimming sessions and hopes for more initiatives like Free Waves so veterans never feel left to fend for themselves.
“On the frontlines, we face the enemy one-on-one, and knowing that someone will help you recover your health and won’t abandon you is incredibly important. It’s hard for me, but I manage. Some guys have it much harder, and for them, this support is even more critical,” shared Oleksandr.
Veterans and servicemen from Zaporizhia have the opportunity to join the project, with all sessions offered free of charge.
In addition to Zaporizhia, the Free Waves project expanded to Kryvyi Rih this autumn. The minimum rehabilitation course for a veteran consists of 16 sessions, which is one month of pool visits.
According to rehabilitation specialists, swimming improves muscle condition, sleep, blood circulation, endurance, and overall productivity for the military and veterans.
