Local heroes deliver life-saving aid from Wimbledon to Ukraine
Medical Life Lines Ukraine (MLLU), based in Wimbledon and Putney, has successfully completed its largest mission to date, delivering a convoy of seven ambulances packed with essential aid to Lviv, Ukraine. This marks MLLU's 12th convoy (and the fifteenth convoy they've contributed to), bringing their total number of ambulances delivered to an impressive 64.
MLLU, a volunteer-driven non-profit, was established in an immediate response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Led by residents of Wimbledon and Putney, this latest convoy was staffed by 14 drivers, including local residents Aliya Aralbayeva and Daniel Whitehead.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
The efforts of this remarkable group attracted drivers from the United States, France, Hong Kong, and across the UK to join this life-saving convoy. Departing from Wimbledon and Putney at 5am on May 19th, the convoy crossed through France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, and Poland, finally reaching Lviv after a 1,200-mile journey on May 22nd.
The volunteers were welcomed by local Ukrainian MP, Natalia Pipa, along with Colonels from Ukraine’s State Emergency Services in the Mykolaiv and Zhotomyr oblasts. They were also greeted by politicians from near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and senior doctors who are treating the terrible wounds inflicted by Russia’s war on Ukraine's civilians and defenders.
The volunteers, including Danielle Dunfield-Prayero, heard firsthand about the dire situation Ukrainians are facing. They gained a detailed understanding of the significant impact their efforts have on the people of Ukraine and the substantial help that is still urgently needed.
WORDS FROM THE FRONTLINE
Aliya Aralbayeva, founder of MLLU, stressed the urgency: "With Russia's relentless attacks on civilians, standing with Ukraine is more crucial than ever. These ambulances, filled with medical supplies, are lifelines for those in desperate need. We are unwavering in our commitment to support the people of Ukraine and deeply grateful to everyone whose time, effort, and support enable us to make such a signiticant difference to so many."
Daniel Whitehead, leader of MLLU, highlighted the impact: "Delivering 64 aid-filled ambulances, 21 generators, and a rescue crane demonstrates the strong commitment from people worldwide have to support the people of Ukraine. This is not just about providing aid; it is about showing Ukrainians that they are not alone. Ukraine would be less than a three-hour flight from London, and trips like this underscore the importance of liberal democracies standing up to the destructive territorial ambitions of leaders like Vladimir Putin."
A COMMUNITY UNITED
Danielle Dunfield-Prayero, who joined the convoy on short notice, shared her experience: "Driving an ambulance from Wimbledon to Lviv was an honour. Our community’s compassion is overwhelming, and it is heartening to see our support reach those in need. It is humbling to witness the impact that a dedicated group of local volunteers can have on the lives of the brave and courageous people of Ukraine, with whom we share so much. We must ensure that our shared values of compassion, decency, and democracy triumph. Together, we can build a more respectful, safer community and Europe where borders must be respected and everyone feels secure."
JOIN THE MISSION
MLLU remains steadfast in its commitment to support Ukraine. The organisation is planning additional convoys and aims to deliver 90 aid-filled ambulances by the end of this year. The public is encouraged to get involved and support these life-saving missions. For more information, please visit Medical Life Lines Ukraine.
