Moscow-born doctor plans solo Atlantic row to aid Ukraine medics
- Leo Krivski is preparing for a solo rowing journey across the Atlantic Ocean to raise funds for Ukrainian medics.
- He established a charity named Ukrops, and has been actively supporting healthcare professionals in Ukraine since the onset of the conflict.
- Krivski's personal connections to Ukraine and the ongoing crisis motivate him to undertake this challenging expedition.
In December 2023, Leo Krivski, a consultant anaesthetist working at the University Hospital Southampton, announced his plan to embark on a solo rowing expedition across the Atlantic Ocean. He aims to raise funds and highlight the medical needs in Ukraine, particularly for medics affected by the ongoing conflict. The row is part of his ongoing efforts to support Ukraine, which he has been involved with since the Russian invasion in 2022. Initially hailing from Moscow, Krivski has been motivated by a personal connection to Ukraine, having worked with Ukrainian medics in the past and having family ties to the region. Preparing for the journey, Krivski is seeking to raise as much as possible through his charity, Ukrops, which he established to aid medics in Ukraine. He has been actively fundraising and mobilizing donations, channeling money directly to healthcare workers in need. His fundraising efforts have been bolstered by his deep connections with Ukrainian medical professionals, allowing for efficient use of resources. The journey is expected to take two to three months and involves meticulous planning, as he has been stocking supplies for the potential of being alone at sea for up to 100 days. Krivski's determination stems from his upbringing and observations of the treatment of Ukrainians in Russia, further intensified by witnessing the impact of the conflict on Ukrainian civilians during the invasion. He has also been engaged in volunteer work, helping deliver medical supplies to Ukraine and establishing relationships with local healthcare professionals. This connection reinforces his commitment to supporting those on the frontlines of the conflict, understanding the harsh realities they endure. As he prepares physically and mentally for the challenge, his journey symbolizes not only a physical test but also a larger message of solidarity and support for Ukrainian medical workers. Krivski embodies resilience and strives to bridge gaps created by geopolitical conflicts through humanitarian actions. He believes that the ordeal of the ocean row will allow him to reflect on his own identity while also serving a greater purpose of aiding those in dire circumstances.