On December 4, 2025, the V.P. Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy hosted a significant event — the transfer of white canes and other assistive devices for veterans and military personnel who have partially or completely lost their vision.

The assistive devices were provided at the initiative of Vladyslav Yeshchenko, Director of the CO “We Will See Victory”, a veteran who himself survived an mine-explosive injury, lost his vision and hearing, and underwent several reconstructive surgeries. Despite this, he created a fund that systematically supports military personnel who are fighting for a new life after injuries.

Why is this important?

Today, most people who have lost their vision are military personnel who have sustained severe trauma, often multiple injuries.

After medical treatment, an equally difficult process begins:

• physical rehabilitation
• psychological rehabilitation
• social and professional rehabilitation

Assistive devices are the first step that helps a person regain independence in daily life.

Many military personnel with combined injuries require complex rehabilitation and support in orientation in everyday environments. Therefore, the availability of current  assistive devices within the structure of the Filatov Institute is critically important for ensuring safety, mobility, and psychological comfort for patients.

The Filatov Institute will continue to support initiatives aimed at the rehabilitation and social adaptation of military personnel with visual impairments.

💛💙 Together we create an environment where everyone feels safe.