Members of the All-Ukrainian Trade Union of Defenders of Ukraine took part in the annual charity dinner organized by the “Protez Foundation,” dedicated to Veteran Appreciation Day — an event honoring the courage, selflessness, and resilience of Ukrainian soldiers who lost limbs while defending the country.

The event brought together heroes, their families, and representatives of veteran and civic communities to express gratitude and support to those who paid the ultimate price for Ukraine’s freedom. Deputy Head of the All-Ukrainian Trade Union of Defenders of Ukraine, Sofiya Cherepanova, attended the dinner accompanied by union members: young State Border Guard veteran Artem Umanets and the family of Dmytro and Khrystyna Starikov. Both soldiers lost their lower limbs during fierce battles in the Serebriansky Forest in Luhansk but have not lost their spirit, faith, or desire to live fully.

“Events like this are not just festive gatherings,” said Sofiya Cherepanova. “They are moments of unity, mutual support, and inspiration. Here, everyone understands each other without words, as we are all connected by the experience of struggle and loss, and at the same time — by our love for life and Ukraine. We thank those who have not broken and continue to be an example of strength for all Ukrainians.”

The charity dinner organized by the Protez Foundation has once again become a space of warmth, gratitude, and mutual understanding. Its purpose is not only to provide physical or material support to veterans but also to create a community of like-minded people where everyone feels they are not alone in their challenges. Initiatives like this are important steps toward social recognition and integration of veterans, who prove every day that the strength of the Ukrainian spirit is unbreakable.

“When you see the smiles of those who have experienced loss but have not lost faith, a new strength to live, help, and carry on emerges. This is the true meaning of such gatherings,” adds Sofiya.