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"I just want to make sure I won't be ashamed later" — Hospitaller with the call sign “Kytsia”, Olena Budz

  • Writer: Oleksiy
    Oleksiy
  • Jul 28, 2025
  • 2 min read

Olena “Kytsia” Budz joined the Hospitallers battalion in 2024. She has worked in all evacuation roles — casevac, medevac, stabilization point, and the "Avstriyka" evacuation bus. She has served in the Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, and Donetsk directions.

"After the Hospitallers' training course, I was extremely motivated to help. Literally the next day after the training, I was already back at work when the missile strike on 'Okhmatdyt' happened. I was far from the scene, but the feeling of helplessness was overwhelming. That day, I decided I’d take another course and officially join the battalion."

Before joining the Hospitallers, "Kytsia" held the position of Head of SMM at a film studio. Together with her team, she ran major promotional campaigns for films such as Mavka, Dovbush, and others. After joining the battalion, she left that job and returned to photography, a long-time passion of hers.

"During rotations, I photograph people — crews, the wounded, doctors, and hospital staff — and through these photos, I tell stories. First and foremost, of course, I am a paramedic. There are moments when I see a perfect shot and think, ‘I wish I had my camera,’ but I’m a paramedic, and my purpose here is different. Once people trust me and we’ve built a connection, I can share that I’m also a photographer and take some pictures."

Olena is originally from Kyiv, but she spent much of her free time in the countryside with her great-grandparents. She describes herself as a bit of a tomboy growing up.

Olena draws her strength and motivation from the ability to be useful. Even something as simple as letting someone call their family, explaining what happened, changing a dressing, or giving overworked doctors a break means a lot to her.

"Right now, I’m on rotation and thinking about how I can become even more effective, even more helpful."

 
 
 

14 Comments


Donald James
Donald James
Jan 13

It’s striking how this powerful sentiment connects across continents. In a different context, the workers and owners of a Knits Factory Pakistan operate on a similar, if less perilous, principle of conscience. Their commitment is to ensure ethical production, fair labor, and quality craftsmanship so that they, too, feel no shame in their product’s journey. It’s a reminder that the resolve to act rightly—whether on the battlefield or on the factory floor—is a universal thread of dignity.


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Muhammad Alamghir
Muhammad Alamghir
Jan 11

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jessica kante
jessica kante
Jan 08

“I just want to make sure I won't be ashamed later” — such words show true courage and self-awareness. Moments like these remind us how important it is to monitor health carefully, especially in high-stress situations. Using reliable Spo2 sensors can make a real difference in keeping oxygen levels in check and ensuring safety. It’s inspiring to see dedication paired with responsibility. Everyone can take a small step to protect themselves while supporting others.

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Sarah McKinsey
Sarah McKinsey
Jan 05

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jessica smith
jessica smith
Jan 05

It’s so powerful to hear voices like Olena Budz’s expressing such honest vulnerability. Seeking help shouldn’t come with shame, and having access to the right support can make all the difference. For anyone struggling, finding a trusted Mental health treatment Center in Texas can provide guidance, care, and a safe space to heal. It’s okay to reach out and prioritize your well-being. Stories like this remind us that courage often starts with asking for help.

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