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The life of emergency medical professionals is filled with challenges, decision-making at critical moments, and priceless moments when the team's efforts help save lives. For Anatolii Kaleniuk, an emergency medicine doctor from Lutsk, this journey started with a personal story that shaped his life.
At the age of nine, Anatolii underwent two complex surgeries that saved his life.
“It was a miracle that I survived, and it was a sign for me. I decided then that I would become a doctor to help people the way I had been helped,” recalls Anatolii.
After graduating from medical school, Anatolii Kaleniuk worked as a family doctor, but quickly realized that his calling was in emergency care. Since 2001, he has devoted himself to working in an ambulance, and later became the head of a district department.
Over the years, Anatolii has gained not only considerable experience but also recognition among his colleagues. He participated in competitions among emergency teams, where his team won prizes. But the greatest satisfaction comes from training paramedics: “My dream is to prove that trained specialists can work as effectively as doctors. And when I see them successfully resuscitating patients or performing complex procedures, it inspires me.” Working on calls brings special motivation.
“In every challenge, even the most difficult, there is a moment when you see the impact of your actions. It can be tears of gratitude in the eyes of a patient, a smile after suffering pain, or just words of appreciation. These moments remind us why we are here, why we do this difficult job every day. When you help a person who was on the brink of life and death and see them return to their family, it's not just a job — it's something that fills your life with meaning.”
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Emergency care in Ukraine has changed significantly in recent years.
“Today, we have everything we need — from modern cars to medical equipment. Whether the patient is in the countryside or in the city, everyone receives quality care,” says Anatolii. Despite these improvements, there are still challenges.
“There are patients who perceive an ambulance as a taxi. But we have to convey the message that emergency care should work where it is really needed.”
“Every call is a new test of our strength, knowledge, and humanity. There are moments when there is no time to think, and decisions have to be made instantly. But when you see your team succeed, the patient has been given a chance to live, and the team has worked together, you feel a real sense of victory.”
Anatolii believes in the power of change and is actively supporting the reform that introduces a system of paramedics.
“This is an important step that will help improve the quality of emergency care. Training and testing encourage improvement. Emergency care is not just about speed, it is about quality and results.”