War for every step: unique challenges and new approaches in podology

Every year in November the World Kindness Day is celebrated. We would like to take this opportunity to tell you about volunteer podologist Olga Bozhenko, a person whose profession has become not just a job, but a real mission. From the first days of the war she started an initiative – podological assistance to the wounded defenders. This is a story about the synergy of professionalism and the desire to improve the lives of those who risk their own for ours. Read more in the interview about modern challenges in podiatry, the difference between podiatric problems in military and civilian, and new approaches to treatment protocols.

Olga, congratulations. Tell us who you are by profession and how you came into the profession? Why did you choose this particular direction?

I am a podologist. My path in this profession has been gradual but purposeful. For 7 years I have been constantly deepening and expanding my knowledge. Frankly speaking, I have always dreamed of finding an occupation to my heart’s content, enjoying the process, so that it would bring pleasure to me and benefit people. For me podiatry is not just a profession. It is an opportunity to improve the quality of life of my clients. I am proud that I chose this path.

Tell us about your volunteer initiative – podological assistance to wounded defenders. How did this initiative come about?

From the first days of the full-scale invasion, I could not stand by and felt the need to act. Realizing that the men who stood up for our country needed support, I thought about how I could help. The realization came quickly – I could be of service through my professional knowledge and skills as a podologist. On February 24, 2022, I had to leave Kiev and moved to a small town. Provided free assistance to our defenders who, often by volunteering, joined the defense. I realized that podological problems such as pain, corns, calluses, and foot injuries can make service much more difficult. Especially in an environment where men are on their feet for several days at a time. In February and March 2022, while in Zhytomyr Oblast, I treated the feet of all the men who needed it. My initiative was born out of a sense of duty and a desire to make life easier for the defenders who stand in the line of fire. This is my gratitude and support for their resilience and courage. In this way I want to make the hard service of our warriors a little more comfortable. Subsequently, I bought and donated professional foot and hand care products to the front. And finally, I received permission to provide podiatric care for the wounded in hospitals.

What kind of cases do you encounter? What is a front foot?

I deal with a variety of podological problems that arise as a result of the extreme conditions our defenders endure. It’s worth noting that the foot and hand problems of defenders at the front and the problems that start after being wounded are two completely different categories. And most of these problems do not occur in civilians … ever!

These two categories require different approaches and treatments. My job, as a podiatrist, is to provide each defender with individualized care, given the problem, and help them feel relief and comfort. One of the most challenging cases is what is known as front foot or trench foot syndrome*. The term “trench foot” has been around since the world wars: soldiers spent days/weeks in damp, cold, unsanitary conditions, particularly in trenches or dugouts. As a podologist, I see the importance of timely care and treatment of this condition. After all, this will help keep our defenders’ feet healthy and avoid the pain that complicates their service.

*Front or trench foot is a specific condition that occurs when a part of the body, most commonly the feet, is exposed to wet and cold environments for long periods of time but at temperatures above 0 °C. Initial symptoms often include tingling or itching, which can progress to numbness. Complications may include skin damage or infection.

Tell us about an incident that you remember the most.

It is difficult to single out just one case, as each encounter with wounded defenders is a unique challenge. Sometimes I have had to literally “on the fly” to find new methods and tactics of foot treatment and adapt the protocol of the procedure. Sometimes I am so focused on my work that I forget to breathe, because every movement counts. Some of the most difficult cases are the treatment of feet whose skin, nails and soft tissues require a special approach, and the limb is missing bones or filled with special cement (instead of bones). Sometimes debris or installed spokes are left behind that go through the foot and toes. And here it is very important not only to master the technique, but also to feel how to hold the foot correctly, so as not to do any harm. This is jewelry work, where every touch must be as careful as possible, and the approach must be individual. It’s not easy, of course, but I feel responsible and have a lot of respect for every character I help. Every time it reminds me why I chose this path and why it is worth continuing.

How do the advocates you help react? 

It is not uncommon for our advocates to be embarrassed to give their feet or hands a treatment, because they are not used to receiving such care. Over time, I’ve learned to approach the treatment process as a friendly conversation. And now my help is perceived more as “voluntary-coercive”🤣 – the guys do not refuse. They are sincerely surprised when they see the result, that even the most complicated cases can be handled so professionally and efficiently. They are also amazed that my help is a free personal initiative.

Their gratitude is boundless. I have noticed that our protectors, like all people, are drawn to care. Sometimes all it takes is a light massage on their hands or feet and their eyes shine with gratitude. At such moments, one realizes that even the smallest act of caring can have a huge impact on a person’s mood and state of mind. It’s really touching, and I’m happy to be able to give them a little comfort and support.

Do you work alone? Or is it a team of volunteers?

Now I work independently, providing podiatric care. And I have the reliable support of a friend who joined my volunteer initiative and provides assistance to wounded defenders – washing the heads of lying patients, cutting their hair to make them feel well-groomed and comfortable. Together we create a sense of care and humanity for our heroes, because it makes a big difference in their difficult recovery process.

Are you approached by those who want to join this initiative? Perhaps there are cases when you have inspired other podologists-professionals by your example.

From time to time I invite professionals to join the initiative. Often beginners or people who do not have enough experience with such complex cases respond. There are also those who have other motives, unfortunately. The important thing here is to ask the right questions to find out the true motives. Questions that I have answered to gain access where it is difficult to get in. Sometimes I get requests: “Who’s paying for this?” – is an indicator that volunteering is not a priority, but rather a way to gain financial gain or experience. For me, the most important thing is that our defenders receive help from sincere people who really want to support them, without seeking personal gain. That is why, first of all, I strive to find specialists with a high level of professionalism and responsibility, who are ready to help unselfishly. This is important for creating an atmosphere of respect and real care, because our heroes deserve it. I would like to take this opportunity to address the specialists and urge them to join the initiative! Volunteers are needed on a permanent basis: podologists, hairdressers, those willing to wash the heads and bodies of the bedridden, to accompany the military on walks in wheelchairs or bedridden on gurneys and other help! If there is a desire to help and do not know where to apply – write to me. With pleasure I will help!

Do business, Ukrainian and international organizations help you in your work? For example, with necessary materials, means? You can address them with a request for assistance

My volunteer podiatry initiative started from my own funds. From the first day, I provided all the materials and necessary supplies on my own, feeling a sense of responsibility and a strong desire to help our defenders. Despite limited resources, I was determined to do my best to keep them healthy. Subsequently, my initiative was noticed and supported by some Ukrainian companies, which provided some assistance. Their contribution was a significant reinforcement and provided the defenders with even better quality materials, thus expanding my professional opportunities. I am very grateful to every company that joined this good deed. Their support not only makes my job easier, but also shows our heroes that both individuals and businesses care about them during this difficult time.

I express my sincere gratitude to the companies 🫶:

MicroSTOP (for compact, high-quality ultrasonic washer and consumables), MARORESKU (for high-quality cutters and hemostatics), Viva Art (for silicones for making individual prostheses for finger amputations and deformities), Suda (for keratolytics). My thanks also go to the specialists who are actively working on developing the formulation of products that can provide special care and facilitate the recovery process of our defenders. Now we are at the stage of preparation for the launch of a brand of cosmetic products.

Thanks to colleagues for their help with cosmeceuticals. After each professional treatment, I donate skin care products so that the defenders continue to take care of their feet and recover on their own.

My podiatry initiative started as a small project that grows every day and requires resources and support.

Now it’s not just podiatry. It’s also personal hygiene products for the wounded, clothing (often all clothing is cut off and defenders get into wards naked), cell phone equipment, crutches/wheelchairs, etc. These much needed items will go to the wards and not to the balance of the hospital.

I take this opportunity to appeal to business owners and all civilians: support the fighters who are at the front or being treated in hospitals!

Businesses that support our military are an example of solidarity with the country and conscious civic responsibility. Every contribution, regardless of size, matters and brings us closer to a common goal. Every Ukrainian should realize that even a small action affects our present and future. Do not stand aside, the country requires everyone’s participation in the realization of a common desire – Victory. Conscious business, conscious citizen is not only a status, but also a lifestyle that includes respect, activity and aspiration for positive changes around.

What motivates you most about volunteering?

I believe that I do not need motivation in the classical sense of the word. Providing podiatric services to soldiers and covering the immediate needs of the wounded is something that comes from the heart. And, therefore, motivation here is an integral part of character and life stance. I don’t need any additional incentives because I feel a deep need to support our defenders, assist them and ease their path to recovery. This gives my work meaning and it is enough to continue on my chosen path with full dedication. In this way I express gratitude, respect and love for those thanks to whom we all have life today, it is important that every hero feels gratitude, support and respect from the people for whom they give their health and life.

Glory to the Heroes of Ukraine!

“Sincerely grateful to MicroSTOP for the opportunity to be heard through this interview. I really appreciate the chance to share information about a line of work that, unfortunately, is not often covered in the media. After all, it is so important that Ukrainians understand the challenges that wounded people face on a daily basis and help the defenders on their road to recovery. I am sure that the topic raised in the interview will not only raise public awareness, but also encourage actions of support and care for those who have gone through difficult ordeals.” – Olga Bozhenko.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

The MicroSTOP team is impressed by Olga’s volunteer initiative and level of professionalism, which inspires professionals to join in helping the defenders. As a conscious business during a full-scale war, MicroSTOP, tirelessly works and donates. We are convinced that we can inspire others by our own example. Therefore, we encourage businesses to support volunteer initiatives, because together we are bringing our Victory closer.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)