Liubov lives in a rural area of the Poltava district. She never wanted to leave her home — since childhood, she has loved the land, flowers, and everything that grows on it. Her garden has always been a source of strength and inspiration.
Over time, however, Liubov developed musculoskeletal problems, and moving independently became increasingly difficult. In the past two years, she could no longer leave her home without assistance. The only way to see her yard was through the window or during a brief step outside her door.
Liubov dreamed of regaining her independence — to walk through her garden again, go to the local store, or talk with her neighbors. A wheelchair could significantly improve her quality of life. Yet obtaining one through the state system proved to be complicated: distance from medical facilities, complex paperwork, and the need for multiple medical visits became serious obstacles.
Her participation in the project “Disability-Inclusive Multisectoral Humanitarian Assistance for Internally Displaced Persons, Returnees, Veterans, and Host Communities in Ukraine”, implemented by the National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine (NAPDU) in partnership with the European Disability Forum (EDF), with support from the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (GFFO) and CBM (Christian Blind Mission), made it possible for Ms. Liubov to receive the needed assistance. With the help of project specialists, she was able to order an individually fitted manual wheelchair suitable for traveling on rural roads.
Now, her home has once again filled with movement and life. Her first outing was to her own garden — with a smile, Liubov recalls how, after a long time, she could once again breathe in the scent of blooming flowers, see her flowerbeds, and greet her neighbors. She admits that the pain has not disappeared, but it feels lighter now that she can act, move, and be among people instead of only observing life through a window.
Liubov’s story illustrates how targeted assistance and individually selected rehabilitation devices can transform lives and make communities more inclusive. When a person receives not just a device, but the right device — one that fits their real needs and living environment — they can remain active, independent, and socially engaged.
An individualized approach is not a luxury; it is a fundamental condition for equal opportunities. For many people in rural areas, where medical and rehabilitation services are less accessible, such support becomes the only pathway to mobility, communication, and a full life.
Person-centered targeted assistance is not merely about providing equipment — it is about restoring dignity, independence, and community participation. It promotes real inclusion through systemic and thoughtful support.
Oleksandra Perkova, Communications Manager of the Project
