A veteran from Novoyavorivsk, 26-year-old Mykhailo Matviiv, participated in the challenging project ‘Second Breath’, through which, along with other wounded military personnel, he climbed Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa. The climb lasted from January 28 to February 2.
A group of five veterans, including four with amputations, conquered the height of 5895 meters over six days. Their aim was to reach the summit while minimizing the risks of altitude sickness by making adaptation stops at various elevations. They prepared for four months for this challenge, which included intensive physical training.
Mykhailo, who has experience in security and martial arts, previously defended Ukraine in various regions, where he was injured and lost a leg. After that, he did not give up and began training in the hospital, maintaining his physical condition and morale.
Climbing Kilimanjaro was even harder for him than the injury, with a particularly difficult descent. Despite the physical pain and difficulty, Mykhailo considers this expedition his toughest challenge and a tremendous achievement.
The ‘Second Breath’ project aims to positively change the perception of veterans, showcasing their strength and independence. Through initiatives like the ‘Invictus Games’, organizers seek to integrate veterans into society, emphasizing the importance of quality prosthetics and social adaptation.