SOCIETAL
“Light Within”: A Retreat for Veterans Who Lost Their Sight
Russia’s war against Ukraine has left behind hundreds of thousands of shattered lives. Explosions of mines and shells have robbed many Ukrainian defenders of the most precious thing — the ability to see the world. If before 2022 vision loss was a relatively rare consequence of combat, today it has become a painful reality.
Bohdan Ferens
Founder of NGO SD Platform and NGO Progressive&Strong,
Retreat Coordinator
Retreat Coordinator
According to UNDP, in just the first seven months of 2023, more than 19,000 Ukrainians sustained serious vision impairments. The Ministry of Veterans Affairs states that among over 130,000 veterans with disabilities, at least 18,000 have vision-related problems.
These figures are not dry statistics but the life dramas of our heroes. They lost their sight defending Ukraine. Now they search for new sources of support, regain skills, and learn to live in darkness. To support this recovery, in the summer of 2025, a four-day retreat camp “Light Within” was held in Kyiv for blind and visually impaired veterans and their families.
These figures are not dry statistics but the life dramas of our heroes. They lost their sight defending Ukraine. Now they search for new sources of support, regain skills, and learn to live in darkness. To support this recovery, in the summer of 2025, a four-day retreat camp “Light Within” was held in Kyiv for blind and visually impaired veterans and their families.
This important event became possible thanks to the cooperation of several teams:
The key goal of the retreat was to create a safe environment for recovery, exchange of experiences, and finding practical solutions that would help integrate blind veterans into society.
- NGO SD Platform — fostering civic participation and youth leadership;
- NGO Progressive&Strong, the largest educational community working in social support and inclusion;
- Rehabilitation Center Trinity HUB — a space specifically created to support the adaptation of blind people, including veterans;
- OPIC – the Olof Palme International Center (Sweden).
The key goal of the retreat was to create a safe environment for recovery, exchange of experiences, and finding practical solutions that would help integrate blind veterans into society.
The Atmosphere
On a hot August day, a special atmosphere prevailed. At the entrance to Trinity HUB, organizers welcomed participants. The scent of coffee mingled with light nervousness in the air. Participants got acquainted, touched hands — as if for a moment forgetting the darkness. A phrase was often heard:
The first day was dedicated to introductions, simple exercises, and open conversations about what a blind veteran feels after leaving the hospital. One participant admitted:
These words struck many. Another part of the program was an open discussion on one of the most sensitive and difficult topics — “How does the state help blind veterans?” The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, the Ministry of Social Policy, local self-government bodies, including the Kyiv City State Administration.
The moderator first asked veterans how they evaluate the level of state support, in percentage terms. Unfortunately, the overwhelming majority responded that this level is only 10–20%. Some even said they feel support at the level of 0%. This not only shocked everyone present but also highlighted and prioritized this issue for deeper and more practical follow-up.
On a hot August day, a special atmosphere prevailed. At the entrance to Trinity HUB, organizers welcomed participants. The scent of coffee mingled with light nervousness in the air. Participants got acquainted, touched hands — as if for a moment forgetting the darkness. A phrase was often heard:
“Others could do it, and so can I.”
The first day was dedicated to introductions, simple exercises, and open conversations about what a blind veteran feels after leaving the hospital. One participant admitted:
“They discharge you — and you are on your own. The world exists, but it feels foreign.”
These words struck many. Another part of the program was an open discussion on one of the most sensitive and difficult topics — “How does the state help blind veterans?” The meeting was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, the Ministry of Social Policy, local self-government bodies, including the Kyiv City State Administration.
The moderator first asked veterans how they evaluate the level of state support, in percentage terms. Unfortunately, the overwhelming majority responded that this level is only 10–20%. Some even said they feel support at the level of 0%. This not only shocked everyone present but also highlighted and prioritized this issue for deeper and more practical follow-up.
Dance as a Tool of Orientation
In addition to discussion blocks, the Retreat program included dance classes with an experienced choreographer-rehabilitologist. To music, veterans learned to take steps without a cane, keep their balance, and feel space.
“Dancing is not about entertainment. It is, above all, about safe movement,” explains Volodymyr Batishchev, a rehabilitation trainer and military psychologist.
In addition to discussion blocks, the Retreat program included dance classes with an experienced choreographer-rehabilitologist. To music, veterans learned to take steps without a cane, keep their balance, and feel space.
“Dancing is not about entertainment. It is, above all, about safe movement,” explains Volodymyr Batishchev, a rehabilitation trainer and military psychologist.
“Dance elements provide spatial awareness, reduce injuries. Often there are situations when one must quickly leave a dangerous area, and the body of a blind person must be mobilized. For this we use step aerobics, and Viennese waltz helps to maintain balance.”
During the classes, veterans shared their stories. Andriy, who lost his sight a year and a half ago, says:
And Mykola shows a photo of a destroyed combat vehicle:
“Before, I couldn’t even walk a few meters straight — I would sway. And now I can. At home, my daughter and I even dance together.”
And Mykola shows a photo of a destroyed combat vehicle:
“It was hit by an anti-tank missile. My comrade can no longer see with his left eye, and I lost my right. They say I’m still lucky.”
Why Peer Support Matters
Workshops, therapy, dance-movement exercises, orientation training, and even a climbing wall. What once seemed impossible became achievable: veterans conquered the wall again and again without fear. Their expressions showed no despair — only determination.
Workshops, therapy, dance-movement exercises, orientation training, and even a climbing wall. What once seemed impossible became achievable: veterans conquered the wall again and again without fear. Their expressions showed no despair — only determination.
Psychological sessions, moderated by psychotherapist Olena Tsytsulnykova, turned out to be intimate and deeply personal. For the first time, the most secret fears were voiced, such as: “To become a vegetable and useless.” But sitting beside them were comrades-in-arms, and their very presence gave confidence that even in such extremely difficult life circumstances, one can cope. The main thing is not to lose faith and to commit to responsible rehabilitation.
Technologies That Restore Independence
Another block of the Retreat was devoted to learning modern technologies. Expert Ihor Kushnir, himself blind, demonstrated how AI-powered smartphone apps that recognize money, traffic light colors, or photos can help in daily life.
“This already works, and it truly improves quality of life. Guide robots are still in the future, but smartphones already today help blind people to be more independent,” emphasizes Ihor Kushnir.
Another block of the Retreat was devoted to learning modern technologies. Expert Ihor Kushnir, himself blind, demonstrated how AI-powered smartphone apps that recognize money, traffic light colors, or photos can help in daily life.
“This already works, and it truly improves quality of life. Guide robots are still in the future, but smartphones already today help blind people to be more independent,” emphasizes Ihor Kushnir.
Sport as a Path to Healing
To endure the hardest periods of life, it is important to find motivation. And the best motivation is always a real example — of people who have walked their own difficult path and achieved results.
One such example was Paralympic athlete, blind mentor, and massage therapist Anatolii Varfolomeiev, who joined our event. He shared his experience of overcoming different life stages and showed how sport can become a tool for self-discipline, willpower, and adaptation in difficult conditions.
To endure the hardest periods of life, it is important to find motivation. And the best motivation is always a real example — of people who have walked their own difficult path and achieved results.
One such example was Paralympic athlete, blind mentor, and massage therapist Anatolii Varfolomeiev, who joined our event. He shared his experience of overcoming different life stages and showed how sport can become a tool for self-discipline, willpower, and adaptation in difficult conditions.
During his motivational speech, Anatolii told participants about his journey, gave advice to veterans on how to engage in sports competitions, and emphasized: even the most serious injuries and disabilities should not be obstacles on the way to goals.
His story is proof that inner strength and self-belief can change lives and open new horizons.
His story is proof that inner strength and self-belief can change lives and open new horizons.
Healing Through Water and Breathing Practices
In preparing the Retreat, it was important to include something special — something that would truly allow participants to reset. Therefore, veterans were invited to visit a spa center in the well-known suburb of Kyiv — Koncha-Zaspa. This place was chosen deliberately, as it carries symbolic meaning for Ukrainians: the perception of political elites being detached behind high fences from the hardships and problems of ordinary citizens. After all, Koncha-Zaspa traditionally hosts the residences of top Ukrainian politicians and officials, including former presidents and the current head of state.
For most veterans and their families, this was their first experience — not only visiting this location but also going to a spa in general. Organizers wanted to show that those who sometimes hide in luxurious estates and hotels must also understand the extremely high price our heroes pay on the frontlines for their safety, and why it is so important to support blind veterans with concrete action.
In preparing the Retreat, it was important to include something special — something that would truly allow participants to reset. Therefore, veterans were invited to visit a spa center in the well-known suburb of Kyiv — Koncha-Zaspa. This place was chosen deliberately, as it carries symbolic meaning for Ukrainians: the perception of political elites being detached behind high fences from the hardships and problems of ordinary citizens. After all, Koncha-Zaspa traditionally hosts the residences of top Ukrainian politicians and officials, including former presidents and the current head of state.
For most veterans and their families, this was their first experience — not only visiting this location but also going to a spa in general. Organizers wanted to show that those who sometimes hide in luxurious estates and hotels must also understand the extremely high price our heroes pay on the frontlines for their safety, and why it is so important to support blind veterans with concrete action.
A pool, water, and breathing practices led by experienced trainer Valentyna Menshykova all became true therapy. Veterans enjoyed water activities, practiced meditation and breathing exercises, and opened up even more in their personal stories and experiences. One of them noted:
For many, this was a moment of inner healing, although some admitted they felt nervous before the trip to the spa center. It was a new place with many people who might react differently to the presence of so many people with disabilities. This once again shows the barriers that still exist in society toward people with disabilities.
“In the water, I am free. Here I am like everyone else.”
For many, this was a moment of inner healing, although some admitted they felt nervous before the trip to the spa center. It was a new place with many people who might react differently to the presence of so many people with disabilities. This once again shows the barriers that still exist in society toward people with disabilities.
Heroes Among the Participants
Among the participants was Maksym Lyozov, who was awarded the title Hero of Ukraine.
In battles near Kreminna and Bakhmut, he lost one eye but returned to the front. In August 2024, during artillery shelling, Maksym tragically lost his second eye and became completely blind.
On February 26, 2025, he received the Gold Star of Hero of Ukraine. Although he does not yet have a family, his friends and comrades became his strong support and convinced him to take part in the Retreat.
Among the participants was Maksym Lyozov, who was awarded the title Hero of Ukraine.
In battles near Kreminna and Bakhmut, he lost one eye but returned to the front. In August 2024, during artillery shelling, Maksym tragically lost his second eye and became completely blind.
On February 26, 2025, he received the Gold Star of Hero of Ukraine. Although he does not yet have a family, his friends and comrades became his strong support and convinced him to take part in the Retreat.
Each of our veterans has their own story: Artur, who is preparing to receive a guide dog; Maksym from Cherkasy, who does sports and plays the guitar; two Ruslans — so different, yet both sincere and genuine, from Nikopol and Kyiv region; Dmytro with his devoted mother, who accompanies him everywhere; and Oleksandr from Vinnytsia, preparing for competitions. All of them became part of a new community. A community that, during these days of the Retreat, was strengthened by a genuine inner light — a light that shines in the darkness, and no darkness can overcome it.
What’s Next?
The outcome of the Retreat was not only the creation of a community of blind and visually impaired veterans for mutual support and experience-sharing but also the establishment of a platform for advocacy and the defense of their interests.
In the final block of the program, participants identified the following next steps:
Unfortunately, the number of such people is growing. That is why systemic work, consistent defense of their rights, and raising public awareness are the key tasks veterans have set for their future activities — and we will support them in this.
The outcome of the Retreat was not only the creation of a community of blind and visually impaired veterans for mutual support and experience-sharing but also the establishment of a platform for advocacy and the defense of their interests.
In the final block of the program, participants identified the following next steps:
- Regular online meetings and calls through accessible communication tools, crucial for maintaining connection and interaction.
- Formulating demands and advocating for them — particularly regarding dignified state recognition of the specific needs of blind veterans.
- Planning and organizing further events focused on advocacy and public communication. This will make the issue of vision loss due to Russia’s war more visible in society and highlight it for government institutions and NGOs.
Unfortunately, the number of such people is growing. That is why systemic work, consistent defense of their rights, and raising public awareness are the key tasks veterans have set for their future activities — and we will support them in this.
Prioritizing the Needs of Blind Veterans
1. Government prioritization and adequate financial and social support Systemic state support: pensions, benefits, adaptation programs, and legal frameworks. Without this, other solutions will remain fragmented.
2. Support in the post-hospital period
The most vulnerable moment is when a veteran is discharged and left alone with their condition. Psychological and rehabilitation assistance is critical to prevent crises.
3. Localization of medical and rehabilitation centers
Access to quality support should exist in every region, avoiding exhausting trips to Kyiv or major cities.
4. Adaptation of physical spaces
Streets, transport, government institutions, and public places must be accessible for the blind. This is a matter of safety and dignity.
5. Allocating funds by local communities
Local budgets should finance space adaptation, rehabilitation centers, and social services.
6. Training and supporting families
Family is the first level of support. Wives, mothers, and children need training to understand how best to help.
7. Adapting education to specific needs
From kindergarten to university, young people must learn how to interact with people with disabilities. This builds a culture of inclusion.
8. Preparing society as a whole
Workplaces, public transport, educational and cultural institutions must be ready to welcome people with disabilities. This requires a long-term shift in mindset.
9. Career guidance and employment
Veterans should have opportunities to work, build new roles, and feel useful.
10. Access to guide dog services
A practical tool of mobility and safety. Important but resource-intensive (training a dog takes up to six months).
11. Creating a community and discussion club
A space for mutual support, sharing experiences, and influencing policy.
12. Regular swimming sessions as anti-stress therapy
Physical activity and relaxation to aid recovery. A valuable supplement but not a substitute for core needs.
1. Government prioritization and adequate financial and social support Systemic state support: pensions, benefits, adaptation programs, and legal frameworks. Without this, other solutions will remain fragmented.
2. Support in the post-hospital period
The most vulnerable moment is when a veteran is discharged and left alone with their condition. Psychological and rehabilitation assistance is critical to prevent crises.
3. Localization of medical and rehabilitation centers
Access to quality support should exist in every region, avoiding exhausting trips to Kyiv or major cities.
4. Adaptation of physical spaces
Streets, transport, government institutions, and public places must be accessible for the blind. This is a matter of safety and dignity.
5. Allocating funds by local communities
Local budgets should finance space adaptation, rehabilitation centers, and social services.
6. Training and supporting families
Family is the first level of support. Wives, mothers, and children need training to understand how best to help.
7. Adapting education to specific needs
From kindergarten to university, young people must learn how to interact with people with disabilities. This builds a culture of inclusion.
8. Preparing society as a whole
Workplaces, public transport, educational and cultural institutions must be ready to welcome people with disabilities. This requires a long-term shift in mindset.
9. Career guidance and employment
Veterans should have opportunities to work, build new roles, and feel useful.
10. Access to guide dog services
A practical tool of mobility and safety. Important but resource-intensive (training a dog takes up to six months).
11. Creating a community and discussion club
A space for mutual support, sharing experiences, and influencing policy.
12. Regular swimming sessions as anti-stress therapy
Physical activity and relaxation to aid recovery. A valuable supplement but not a substitute for core needs.
Voices Heard at the Retreat
Veterans’ Feedback
- “Others could do it, and so can I.”
- “Forgetting for even a moment that you are blind is also important.”
- “New things are hard and stressful adventures.”
- The greatest fear — to become a “vegetable,” useless to family and society.
Veterans’ Feedback
- More practical training for caregivers.
- Training in the use of gadgets and social media.
- Career guidance and possible employment opportunities.
- More accessible household items, even simple things like ergonomic tableware.
Behind the Scenes of the Retreat
Coordinator Bohdan Ferens emphasizes:
Coordinator Bohdan Ferens emphasizes:
“The Retreat is not only about recovery for blind veterans but also for those around them: mothers, wives, and children. For them, we organized a spa day. It is important that those blind from childhood share experiences with those who lost sight in the war.”
Tetiana Kostenko, Deputy Director of Trinity HUB:
“We are looking for donors because the number of such men is growing. Hospitals send new cases every day.”
Why This Matters
In Ukraine, there are almost no specialized centers for blind veterans. “Light Within” became the first project of its kind. It not only aids rehabilitation but also raises the issue of systemic support.
Such initiatives:
Four days at Light Within changed everyone. The confidence of a step without a cane, laughter during dinner, quiet conversations with new friends — all of this proved: the Retreat gave more than rehabilitation.
In Ukraine, there are almost no specialized centers for blind veterans. “Light Within” became the first project of its kind. It not only aids rehabilitation but also raises the issue of systemic support.
Such initiatives:
- break down barriers between people with disabilities and society;
- foster a new culture of interaction;
- create partnerships between the state, communities, and NGOs.
Four days at Light Within changed everyone. The confidence of a step without a cane, laughter during dinner, quiet conversations with new friends — all of this proved: the Retreat gave more than rehabilitation.
Today, Ukraine’s blind veterans are not looking for pity — they want to live fully. And such initiatives are an important step toward ensuring that society truly hears them.
You can watch media coverage of the Retreat produced by national TV channels at this link.
You can watch media coverage of the Retreat produced by national TV channels at this link.
26.09.2025
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