Ukrainian Veterans Embrace Skiing for Rehabilitation in Oregon
HOODOO SKI AREA, Ore. — Ukrainian war veteran Oleksandr Shvachka, who lost his left leg to Russian tank fire near Kyiv, recently experienced a remarkable step in his rehabilitation journey at Hoodoo Ski Area in Oregon. Along with four fellow veterans, Shvachka participated in adaptive ski lessons organized by Oregon Adaptive Sports, aimed at fostering sports accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Shvachka, 38, described his skiing experience amid the stunning Oregon landscape as “an amazing emotion.” Utilizing two hand-held outriggers, he navigated the slopes with enthusiasm, marking a substantial chapter in both his physical and mental recovery since being wounded in March 2022.
The initiative is backed by the Corvallis-Uzhhorod Sister City Association, which has maintained a partnership for over 30 years. The program facilitates not only the veterans’ rehabilitation—many of whom have been recovering at a rehabilitation hospital in Uzhhorod—but also trains Ukrainian ski coaches on adaptive equipment for prospective amputees back home.
Association co-founder Carol Paulson, who has a history of teaching adaptive skiing to veterans, emphasizes the importance of such activities, stating, “It reminds them that they can participate fully in life.” Paulson noted the unique tranquility of skiing, highlighting its soothing elements compared to other sports.
These skiing lessons also serve a broader mission: the veterans and instructors are set to take outriggers back to Ukraine, fostering a new era in the country’s rehabilitation program and paving the way for widespread adaptive skiing.
Kristian Minai, a Ukrainian ski coach, expressed hope for the future, stating, “Maybe one day, we will see them from the podium in the Paralympic Games.” Oregon Adaptive Sports’ executive director, Pat Addabbo, underscored the event’s transformative significance, connecting individuals globally through the unifying power of sport.
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