UNMC faculty member Valia Gumenyuk, PhD, grew up in southern Ukraine, on the port city of Odessa.
This week, as the world received reports of Russian attacks across the eastern European country, her attention was on her 77-year-old mother and her husband’s parents, who still live there.
“The night was horrible,” she said Thursday afternoon, hours after the attacks began. “It’s just very terrible and terrifying across all Ukraine regions. There is no quiet spot in Ukraine right now to hide … and no escape zone.”
Dr. Gumenyuk joined UNMC in 2021 as an assistant professor in the UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences and a research scientist for the MEG Lab.
She was calling her mom, who lives on the upper floors of a nine-story apartment building, often — every 15 to 20 minutes — to make sure she had a connection. She also has relatives in Kyiv and Kharkiv, where some took shelter in subway stations.
“It’s terrifying, but the Ukrainian Army is doing good things and the people of Ukraine – three out of four – believe in the Ukrainian Army,” Dr. Gumenyuk said. “They’re doing their best, and the world is watching.”
She appreciates the support and “million messages” received from friends at UNMC and beyond. “It’s amazing the support and big heart of all the people who are thinking about this tragedy and praying with Ukrainians for peace. This war shouldn’t be happening at all. From my Ukrainian heart, I appreciate all the people in the world who are with us and thinking of us and praying for us.”
UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, said he also is watching reports and encourages the campus community to extend concern and grace to one another. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the citizens of the region, including those who are part of the UNMC community and who have loved ones abroad. We are here to support you and your families, and are mindful of the stress, worry and uncertainty created by these events.”
The UNMC community is reminded of the free campus resources available to them. Individuals who are experiencing feelings of concern or stress can access confidential services through Counseling and Psychological Services (students), Arbor Family Counseling (faculty and staff) and the House Officers Assistance Program (residents).
I am from Russia and ashamed of our government for starting this war, no one in Russia wants this war except for the person who started it
So sorry. Prayers for the safety of your family.
This is truly heartbreaking. Praying for all.
God bless you, and your family, people and country, Valia!
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people during these difficult times, and there will be a day in which that thug Putin has nothing but defeat and humiliation.
It is heartbreaking to hear about invasion and sufferings. Praying for peace.
May god bless strength and courage to all Ukrainians who are defending their land.
Praying alongside our campus community. We are here for you.