A British volunteer who lost his arm and leg while helping evacuate civilians in Ukraine is speaking out about the importance of empathy and support for the country. Eddie Scott, 35, was severely injured in a landmine blast while on a mission to help people flee a conflict zone.
Scott credits his survival to the quick thinking and first aid provided by his fellow volunteer, Vadim Rozhdestvenskyi, who stabilized him with a tourniquet until medical help arrived. Scott remembers feeling “horrible levels of pain” during the 40-minute journey to the hospital, but was conscious throughout.
Despite being told that a medevac flight back to the UK was being prepared for him, Scott chose to stay in Ukraine and continue his work. His treatment was funded by the US RT Weatherman Foundation, which also helped evacuate him from Dnipro to Kyiv for further recuperation.
Scott’s parents visited him in Kyiv, and they too were touched by their experience in Ukraine. They now describe the country as “amazing” and have changed their own perspective on the conflict.
Through his ordeal, Scott has come to realize that empathy is essential for survival, especially during times of war. He believes that people in the West often lack empathy for those affected by the conflict, and that this is a serious problem.
Scott now sees himself as an advocate for Ukraine and its people, helping in any way he can. He plans to stay in Ukraine and continue his work, using his experience to raise awareness about the importance of empathy and support for the country.
The Donetsk Oblast Prosecutor‘s Office is investigating the attack that injured Scott as a potential war crime.
Scott’s story has gone viral on social media, with many praising him as a hero.