In a heartwarming recognition of their tireless efforts, WEM Founder Mark Hannaford and Advanced Paramedic Luca Alfatti, the visionary founders of Medics4Ukraine, have been awarded prestigious medals for their outstanding contributions to medical training in Ukraine. The ceremony, held in early September 2024 in Lviv, Western Ukraine, highlighted the profound impact of their work in supporting and training local medical professionals in conflict zones.
A Rare Honour
The medals bestowed upon Hannaford and Alfatti are part of an exclusive group, with only 183 such awards given to date. This rarity underscores the significance of their achievements and the high regard in which their work is held.
Medics4Ukraine: A Beacon of Hope
Founded by Mark Hannaford and Luca Alfatti, Medics4Ukraine has emerged as a crucial player in providing medical support and training across Ukraine. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed:
- The organisation has delivered over £3 million worth of medical aid to Ukraine.
- They conduct vital trauma medical courses for frontline soldiers and medics.
- To date, they’ve trained over 800 medical professionals, significantly boosting local emergency response capabilities.
The Faces Behind the Mission
A Team Effort
The success of Medics4Ukraine is not just about its founders. Stepan Skobenyuk, Co-Founder of ‘Public Trust’ and the organisation’s Ukrainian counterpart, plays a crucial role as the in-country logistics manager. His expertise ensures that aid and training reach those who need it most.
Looking Ahead
As the conflict in Ukraine persists, the need for skilled medical personnel remains critical. Medics4Ukraine is committed to continuing its support and training programmes, adapting to the changing security situations on the ground.
In an exciting development, Medics4Ukraine is set to expand its operations significantly. The organisation will soon launch as a new entity, broadening its scope and reach. This expansion aims to enhance their ability to provide crucial medical training and support in conflict zones and other challenging environments worldwide.
Get Involved
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As Mark Hannaford humbly stated, “We are deeply honoured by this recognition. However, the true heroes are the Ukrainian medical professionals who work tirelessly in extremely challenging conditions. Our mission is to support them with the skills and knowledge they need to save lives.”
Luca Alfatti added, “This recognition reinforces the importance of our mission in Ukraine. As an organisation, we’ve been able to leverage our expertise in extreme medicine to make a real difference on the ground. The courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people continue to inspire us to expand our efforts and reach.”
In these challenging times, the work of organisations like Medics4Ukraine serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have in making the world a better place, one life-saving training session at a time.
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