From July 5 to 8, the first therapeutic trek, The Power of the Mountains, took place — four days devoted to the recovery and rehabilitation of Ukrainian veterans. Led by team leader Maksym Chubyk — a fellow soldier and military psychologist — thirteen participants immersed themselves in the natural “rehabilitation hall” of the Carpathians, where every step heals, and a steady shoulder nearby gives strength.
Amid the comfort of the mountains, the participants once again found themselves among “their own” — people who understand the darkness of the night and the bright humor of the day without the need for words. Shared songs in the rain and under the sun, fireside conversations, plunges into icy mountain streams, and physical challenges — these moments were not just beautiful experiences but also powerful tools for psychological healing.
The campsite near the Hoverlyansky Waterfall immediately felt like home: fresh mountain air, the scent of juniper and resin, and the distance from the noise of the city created an atmosphere where speaking and truly listening came easily. Here, peace intertwined with the warmth of mutual support.
The group hiked the Nesamovyte-Hoverla ridge, rested by Lake Nesamovyte, listened to the crystal-clear roar of the Prytsky and Probiy waterfalls, and summited Mount Hoverla. Every trail posed a challenge — and at the same time, a victory. Each participant had different levels of physical fitness and preparation, yet all of them reached their goals. Special admiration was inspired by those with amputations, who confidently crossed mountain ridges and stood atop Ukraine’s highest peak. Witnessing how determination, resilience, and sheer willpower overcome obstacles was, in itself, a form of therapy — restoring faith and confidence not only within the participants but also in everyone who watched.
A particularly heartfelt moment was the celebration of one participant’s birthday. As she said herself, being surrounded by such incredible people made her special day even more meaningful.
These people have already defended Ukraine’s future; now it’s our turn to help them regain the strength they need to keep building it. The Power of the Mountains showed that rehabilitation can be vibrant, dynamic, and full of joy. Every step taken in the Carpathians is a step toward inner resilience, and every day spent among fellow soldiers is a reminder that the bond of military brotherhood lasts forever.
The Kuluar team extends heartfelt gratitude to the veterans for their service and trust, to team leader Maksym for his initiative and leadership, and to the beloved Carpathians — for their enduring ability to heal and restore.
