8-Year-Old Maryna Sets National Record in Skiing After War Injury

The other day, 8-year-old Marina, who is the first child to be prosthetically treated in Ukraine for a war injury, accompanied by a trainer, went down a 50-meter-long ski slope.

According to the National Children's Specialized Hospital (NSCH)"Okhmatdyt", where Marina was a patient, the descent lasted 46 seconds.

"This is a national record, which is recorded by the World Record Book. We congratulate our incredible Maryna on this significant achievement," the NSCH added.

The hospital noted that the girl started skiing only a month ago. However, in a short period of time, she managed to fall in love with the sport and has already achieved success.

"Her family, friends, Okhmatdyt staff, and, of course, her coach Vasyl Leskiv, who taught her not only to ski, but also to believe in herself and not be afraid of new challenges," Okhmatdyt said.

Photo: NDSL "Ohmatdyt"/Facebook

Maryna is originally from the Kherson region. In May 2022, as a result of Russian shelling, she lost her leg. Then a shell hit her house. That's how the girl got to Okhmatdyt in Kyiv for treatment. Here she is still undergoing rehabilitation, working with a psychologist, continuing to get used to the prosthesis and fulfill her dreams.

"Despite everything she has been through, Marynka does not give up in the face of difficulties and is confidently pursuing her goal of becoming a racing driver. Now she is actively involved in various sports, loves football, cycling, jumping on trampolines, learned to swim, and now she also goes skiing," the institution added.

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The doctors believe that Maryna's story is an example for everyone. They are proud that Okhmatdyt has become a part of her life's journey to recovery and achievement and wish the girl to confidently pursue her dreams.

"She is an example of incredible strength and proof that nothing is impossible."

Олеся Ланцман