Learning to Live Anew: A Veteran's Journey After Losing an Arm and His Sight.

The Story of Mykhailo Podhorodetskyi

According to UATV: Mykhailo Podhorodetskyi, a 30-year-old veteran from Zbarazh, Ternopil region, sustained catastrophic injuries while serving in Ukraine's war against Russia. In August 2025, during a mission with the 'Lyut' (Fury) joint assault brigade of the National Police to evacuate a comrade in Donetsk region, he suffered a severe wound. The incident resulted in the loss of his arm, a traumatic brain injury, and near-total loss of his eyesight. Mykhailo, who previously worked as a system administrator, is now focused on rehabilitation with the hope of returning to a career in IT.

Following his injury, Mykhailo was taken to the Unbroken rehabilitation center in Lviv. Doctors have fitted a prosthesis in his left eye and partially restored vision in his right eye through surgery. He is working intensively with an occupational therapist to regain his physical capabilities and relearn daily living skills. He recalls the moment he was thrown from an armored vehicle and the application of a tourniquet to his wounds.

“I remember trying to get into a stable position and how much it hurt.”

Mykhailo Podhorodetskyi

Despite the immense challenges, the veteran has not lost hope for recovery. 'I understood almost immediately that something was wrong with my sight. With the arm, it wasn't immediate, but it became clear the arm was gone,' he recalls. At the center, Mykhailo is learning to use a cane, cross the street, and perform other everyday tasks, a process that highlights the long road back for severely wounded soldiers.

“We went to stores, we worked on moments like how to hold the cane when you're using it, how to cross the road.”

Liubov Hamova, Occupational Therapist

Mykhailo Podhorodetskyi continues on his path to recovery, demonstrating remarkable courage and determination in his fight for a new life.

The Role of Rehabilitation Centers

The story of Mykhailo Podhorodetskyi reflects both the pain and the resilience of veterans who continue to fight for their lives after suffering devastating war injuries. Rehabilitation centers like Unbroken play a crucial role in providing the essential support and assistance that allows service members to adapt to new life circumstances and rebuild their skills. It is vital for society to continue supporting these individuals, as their experience and struggle symbolize the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people.