On the streets of Kyiv, an ambulance emblazoned with a New Zealand flag is treating and transporting the war-wounded.<\/p>\n
Paul Demyanov in front of his new ambulance and part of the NZ flag that has been painted on to it. Photo: Give-a-Little<\/p>\n
It follows a campaign by Ukraine-born New Zealander doctor Olga Dubnytska, whose brother, Paul, is an ambulance driver in the Ukrainian capital city.<\/p>\n
His old, clapped-out ambulance was not in good condition when the Russian invasion occurred and - just when it was badly needed to help the injured - it broke down.<\/p>\n
Olga appealed to her fellow Kiwis for help to raise the $20,000 needed to replace the vehicle, starting a fundraiser on Givealittle.<\/p>\n
In just over a week, she had raised more than enough to get Paul back on the road.<\/p>\n
\"I'm very excited and I would like to say from the bottom of my heart and [on] behalf of my brother ... a big thank you to each and every one for your generous donation,\" Olga said.<\/p>\n
\"We did it. We did make a difference. We have helped my brother ... to get a new functional ambulance and he's now in [his ambulance in] Kyiv with a New Zealand flag on the side [and it will] go with him everywhere.\"<\/p>\n
Paul Demyanov and some colleagues before the old ambulance broke down. Photo: Give-a-Little<\/p>\n
She said it meant the world to her brother.<\/p>\n
\"He was sitting at home ready to do something but couldn't, because he had no wheels. And now he has this brilliant car. I mean, I saw the photos and he's so excited - and he's already done his first on-call.\"<\/p>\n
Speaking to First Up with his sister translating, Paul said he loved the new vehicle - a 2017 ambulance fully equipped with everything he needed, including an air conditioner - although he still has a bit of work to do getting the radio communications up-to-scratch.<\/p>\n
He said he managed to source the New Zealand flag through an advertising company.<\/p>\n
Paul sent a message through after speaking with First Up host Nathan Rarere: \"I could not convey in the interview the emotions that fill me. I feel respect for the people of your country, you are wonderful people!<\/p>\n
\"I want to wish you a peaceful sky above your head!\"<\/p>\n
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Ukraine war: New Zealand donors pay for new ambulance to help treat injured - RNZ<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" On the streets of Kyiv, an ambulance emblazoned with a New Zealand flag is treating and transporting the war-wounded. Paul Demyanov in front of his new ambulance and part of the NZ flag that has been painted on to it Continue reading