The presentation of the documentary “Second Breath” about the incredible endurance and strength of spirit of Ukrainian soldiers took place at the Embassy of France in the United States in Washington. These are the stories of five Ukrainian veterans who, after serious injuries and amputations, climbed the highest peak in Africa – Mount Kilimanjaro. The event was held with the support of the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States.
This was reported by the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States.
“Their journey is more than a physical challenge. It is a profound act of defiance and a moving symbol of Ukraine’s struggle, hope and resilience. A story of pain transformed into strength and brotherhood that continues beyond war,” the organizers said in a statement.
The four heroes of the film – Roman “Dobryak” Kolesnyk, Vladislav “Shatya” Shatilo, Mykhailo “Grizzly” Matviyev and Oleksandr “Ragnar” Mikhov – move around with prostheses. They have become a living embodiment of the indomitable spirit of the nation. The team has also been joined by Olga “Vysota” Yegorova, who suffered shrapnel wounds at the front. It is through her eyes that the audience goes through all the trials – from preparation to climbing to the top.
The screening was opened by the French Ambassador Laurent Bili and the Ukrainian Ambassador to the US Olga Stefanishyna, emphasizing the importance of solidarity with Ukrainian soldiers. The event was attended by the film’s director Maria Kondakova, producer and screenwriter Gennady Gazin, one of the film’s heroes Mykhailo Matviyev and the director of the “Second Breath” foundation Anna Vozna.
“A documentary film about our indomitable defenders was presented to a packed cinema. This is a story of incredible strength, endurance, a story of choosing life and fighting despite pain. The physical feat of the heroes is a kind of metaphor for the path of Ukraine, which continues to fight for its future. This climb is a visible, loud act of defiance and self-determination; an example of the strength and indomitability of our nation. It was important for me to share this story here in Washington. I am sincerely grateful to Ambassador Laurent Biel and the Embassy of France for jointly organizing this event. Thanks to the team and the heroes of the film for this incredible experience,” shared the impressions of the event by the Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, Olga Stefanishyna.
The film is aimed at increasing understanding among the civilian population of how to communicate with veterans who have survived amputations.
After the premiere in Washington, the film will be shown in New York, and later in other countries of the world.
Photo: Olga Stefanishyna
Author: Inna Mikhno