Veteran from Novoyavorivsk Skis in Bukovel After Losing Arms and Legs

Mykola Shot, who lost all limbs in the war, returned to skiing and driving with prosthetics, experiencing freedom, adrenaline, and independence through adaptive sports and vehicles.

41-year-old Mykola Shot from Novoyavorivsk has been defending Ukraine as part of the 93rd Brigade “Kholodnyi Yar” since the start of the full-scale invasion. In 2024, on the Bakhmut front, the defender suffered severe mine-explosive injuries, losing both his arms and legs. Despite four amputations, the veteran and patient of the Unbroken Center did everything possible every day to continue living actively and remain independent, ZAXID.NET reports.

In spring 2025, Mykola participated in his first race using prosthetics. In the summer, he returned to his favorite activity – driving a car. In the fall, he became a mentor at the Unbroken Center to help other defenders overcome their injuries as well, the medical facility reported. At the end of January 2026, the veteran decided to try skiing again. Twenty years ago, Mykola practiced biathlon, a winter sport combining cross-country skiing and shooting. To make his dream come true, Mykola traveled to Bukovel with the Unbroken Center team, the medical facility reported.

“I’m confident that I can do this. Even if I fall, you can always get up and try again,” Mykola said.

The first challenge was putting on the gear. With prosthetics, it wasn’t easy, but with the team’s help, he managed. Next, Mykola made his way to the slope on his own. He was finally able to ski a few meters. He said he felt constant pressure on his stumps — the amputated parts of his lower limbs — but didn’t fall even once.

Later, to experience the full range of emotions and the freedom of skiing, he switched to adaptive skis—skiing with the help of a professional instructor. At high speed, the instructor guided Mykola Shot along the most challenging ski slopes.

“Adrenaline. I felt such adrenaline. It was amazing. I recommend everyone try it,” the veteran said.

This was Mykola’s first skiing experience after his amputations, but not the last. He says he will definitely ski again, possibly even this season.

Earlier, ZAXID.NET reported that before the war, Mykola had been driving a car for 20 years. After his amputations, it was extremely important for him to get back behind the wheel — and he did. To make this possible, the prosthetist from the Unbroken Center, Oles Soloduha, equipped the veteran’s adaptive car with special elements on the steering wheel and doors. The car for the veteran was purchased with funds raised by organizers and donors during a charity run in his hometown of Novoyavorivsk.