Shuttered Lives: The Aftermath of Russia's Heartless Assault on Ukrainian Hospitals and Homes
Published: Jul 12, 2024 Reading time: 2 minutes
On July 8, 2024, Russia carried out a heinous act of terrorism targeting the civilian population of Ukraine. The devastating attack struck Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Slovіansk, and Kramatorsk. Notably, the missile struck the largest children's hospital in the country, "Okhmatdyt," where young cancer patients receive critical care. In Kyiv alone, 33 individuals lost their lives, while over a hundred sustained injuries from the blasts.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, rescue workers and locals in Kyiv bravely combed through the rubble with bare hands, searching for survivors at the Okhmatdyt Hospital. This medical facility, which annually treats over 20,000 patients from across Ukraine, had its toxicology building destroyed, and four other structures damaged by the missile impact.
Amidst the chaos, volunteers flocked to the scene, passing bricks and concrete remnants to aid in the cleanup efforts. As the damaged hospital loomed in the background, the community rallied together in solidarity.
The area targeted by the rocket housed children undergoing dialysis treatments. Despite the destruction, medical staff persisted in administering crucial care on the streets and within remaining hospital sections. With over 600 young patients inside Okhmatdyt during the attack, doctors were compelled to discharge many children requiring ongoing treatment to ensure their safety.
Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as a woman offered solace to a young boy awaiting transport to another medical facility.
Tragically, numerous hospital workers sustained injuries, while some brave souls succumbed to fatal wounds amid the chaos.
Beyond the hospital grounds, the shelling near a metro station resulted in the loss of two lives, mirroring the devastating impact felt throughout Kyiv. A staggering 129 structures endured damage or destruction in the wake of the missile strike.
As individuals slowly returned to their workplaces from shelters, the stark reality of mangled buildings ablaze in the backdrop underscored the extensive damage inflicted.
One poignant location, a high-rise building, bore witness to a harrowing three-day operation to locate survivors, including 13 casualties, including five children.
People in Need Ukraine vehemently denounces the barbaric attacks targeting the innocent civilians of Ukraine. Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we extend our deepest wishes for a swift recovery to the injured. We stand unwavering in our support, delivering aid to those in need across the nation, and we implore everyone to take action and stand against such atrocities with us.
