**Man’s Aid Work in Ukraine Changes Him Forever**
Ian Russell, a 35-year-old man from Lincolnshire, has delivered aid to Ukraine four times since 2023. His experiences have had a profound impact on him, changing “some things” inside him. Russell has supplied 20 tonnes of aid to families, animals, and people on the front line.
**From Tour Manager to Aid Worker**
Russell works as a tour manager for musicians. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he saw a BBC video about a girl trying to flee Ukraine. This inspired him to take action and deliver aid himself. He flew to Krakow, Poland, and crossed the border to Lviv in western Ukraine to meet a friend and offer his help.
**Aid Deliveries**
During his recent trip from 14 to 22 April, Russell delivered aid across Ukraine with the help of driver Bob Dutcher. They were joined by an American former software executive, Mr Dutcher, whom he had met on a previous trip. The pair delivered aid to non-profit groups, animal shelters, and orphanages near Lviv and Kyiv.
**The Human Cost**
Russell entered the country just a day after Ukrainian authorities reported a Russian missile attack that killed at least 34 people, including 15 children. His experiences during this trip “broke” him, with hours of crying and tears over positive things. He was moved by watching people dancing and singing during an Easter parade in what is effectively a war zone.
**A New Van Needed**
Russell’s van broke down on his return from Sumy, making it impossible for him to deliver aid further. He now needs about £4,000 to buy a new van to use during future aid trips. Russell hopes that the community will come together to help him get the necessary funds.
**The Human Impact**
Mr Dutcher described their trip as “the most personally rewarding and impactful” thing he had done. Mr Russell was praised by his friend for having “the biggest heart of anybody” he had met.
In a testament to the power of human kindness, Ian Russell’s aid work in Ukraine has changed him forever. As he appeals for help to get a new van, we are reminded that even small acts of charity can make a significant difference in people’s lives.
**What Next?**
If Russell fails to raise the necessary funds, he is prepared to go back to his old ways – flying to Krakow with a backpack full of tourniquets and handing them over himself on the front line. This shows the depth of commitment and dedication that drives him to help those in need.
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