Foundation Report: Boundless Gratitude and the Power of Compassion
Supporting a Family in Crisis: The Story of Nikita
This report recounts the unwavering support provided by the JANZ International Foundation founders—Rick Finsterbusch, Brian Healey, and John Endres—to the family of Ukrainian volunteer soldier Nikita during their darkest moments. This story exemplifies the mission of the Foundation: to deliver hope and tangible support to those in need.
A Young Patriot's Journey
Nikita, born in 2000, was a spirited and determined young man. Before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, he worked for a major construction retailer and enjoyed a loving family life with his wife, Anya, and their son, Matviy. When war erupted, Nikita felt a deep sense of duty to defend his country. Despite pleas from his family and colleagues, he joined the front lines after intensive training in western Ukraine, serving in an anti-tank unit.
On July 13, 2023, after completing a combat mission, Nikita sustained life-threatening injuries when a mine dropped by an enemy drone exploded. The blast caused extensive trauma, including:
- A blast injury and gunshot wound to the abdomen, damaging the liver, stomach, and small intestine.
- Fractured ribs, left-sided hemopneumothorax, and severe injuries to his left shoulder and collarbone.
- Two heart arrests and pneumothorax, necessitating immediate intensive care.
After stabilizing, Nikita was transferred to Kyiv's Feofania Clinic, where his path intersected with the JANZ International Foundation.
A Fateful Encounter
During a visit to Feofania Hospital in November 2023, Rick Finsterbusch, Brian Healey, and John Endres, who were in Kyiv for the International Health Summit, met Nikita's mother, Iryna. At the ICU's request, the delegation learned about Nikita's condition and his extraordinary journey. Moved by his plight, the three founders pledged their support.
The Power of Compassion
"I remember the day I met Rick, Brian, and John as if it were yesterday. Their compassion was immediate and genuine. Rick hugged me and said, 'Everything will be fine.'" - Iryna, Nikita's mother
Initially, they considered transferring Nikita to the U.S. for treatment, but the risks of such a journey were too high. Instead, Nikita was transferred to France, ensuring he received world-class medical care. This decision marked a turning point in his recovery journey.
The Path to Recovery in France
A medical team from Norway accompanied Nikita on the arduous journey to France. Upon arrival in Paris, doctors immediately began lifesaving interventions at the airport. Nikita was then transported to Amiens, where his condition remained critical. He was connected to nearly 30 machines and placed in a medically induced coma for two months.
Through the tireless efforts of French medical teams and consultations with specialists like Professor Parker in Paris, Nikita's condition gradually stabilized. After six months in intensive care and multiple surgeries, he began his path toward recovery. Two additional surgeries in Paris, each lasting 11 hours, further addressed his complex injuries.
The Role of the JANZ International Foundation
Throughout this journey, the JANZ International Foundation provided vital support:
- Material Support: The Foundation covered logistical costs, ensuring Nikita's treatment proceeded without financial barriers.
- Moral Support: Nikita's family—his wife Anya, his son Matviy, and his mother Iryna—received housing and living support in France, enabling them to stay close to him during his recovery.
A Message of Gratitude
"They became more than friends; they became family. Without their help and reassurance, we couldn't have managed to stay with Nikita in France." - Anya, Nikita's wife
A Family United in Hope
Today, Nikita remains under intensive care, showing remarkable resilience. His physical and emotional strength is bolstered by the presence of his loved ones and the unwavering support of the JANZ International Foundation. The Ukrainian government does not provide assistance for families of wounded soldiers receiving treatment abroad, making the Foundation's efforts indispensable.
Nikita's mother, Iryna, reflects on the extraordinary kindness of Rick, Brian, and John: "They became angels in our lives. I thank God every day for their support, which gave my son a second chance at life."
Looking Ahead
While Nikita faces a long road of recovery and rehabilitation, his story is a testament to the power of compassion and global solidarity. The JANZ International Foundation remains committed to supporting his journey, underscoring its mission to provide hope and healing to those in need.
Conclusion
The JANZ International Foundation's intervention in Nikita's life has created a ripple effect of hope and possibility. His story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated individuals and organizations can have in transforming lives.
The Foundation will continue to stand by Nikita and his family as they navigate the challenges ahead, embodying the belief that even in the darkest times, humanity's compassion can shine brightest.