In February of this year I received a call from the American Red Cross of Illinois that I had been selected as this year's Global Citizenship Hero for my medical work in Ukraine. I knew my friend had nominated me back in December but I shelved that away somewhere in the back of my mind. Until that February evening I sat shocked in my tent trying to process what I had just been told.
The American Red Cross of Illinois Global Citizenship Hero award honors individuals who dedicate themselves to humanitarian causes, advocating for vulnerable populations across the globe.
I want to first express my gratitude to the American Red Cross of Illinois for this honor. Thank you so much!
I went home for the first time in almost two years to accept the award in person which was a surreal experience.
I dedicated this award to my brother in arms, Biggy, US Army 68W who I served with and was killed in battle in November 2025.
At the end of my acceptance speech, I said that in Ukraine we say "Glory to Ukraine!" (Слава Україні!/Slava Ukraini!) and the response is "Glory to Heroes! (Героям слава! /Heroyam Slava!). Today I say Glory to all the Heroes that walk alongside me in this life of service to others. Thank you!"
