CCI-funded surgical team braves conflict to perform urgent Chernobyl heart surgeries in Ukraine

As war engulfs Ukraine, Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International (CCI) refuses to abandon its mission of providing life-saving cardiac surgeries for children. CCI’s Cardiac Mission continues despite the grave dangers, ensuring that babies and young children with critical heart conditions, including “Chernobyl Heart,” receive urgent medical intervention.

CCI’s Voluntary CEO, Adi Roche, expressed the immense difficulties of operating in a war zone. “The reality on the ground is heartbreaking, but these children cannot wait. We cannot turn our backs on them, despite the war. Our incredible team is risking their safety to provide care where it is needed most, demonstrating the true meaning of courage and compassion. Ireland has always stood by the children of Chernobyl, and we continue to do so in their darkest hour.”

“Our team are working in an environment where air raid sirens dictate our schedules, and medical supplies are stretched thin. But we are here, operating under extreme pressure because these children deserve a chance at life.”

During CCI’s last mission in February, the team were shell-shocked as they learned about the drone attack on Chernobyl whilst in the middle of surgeries on babies whose life-threatening illness bore from the 1986 nuclear disaster.

The war has compounded Ukraine’s healthcare crisis, making CCI’s efforts even more critical. The legacy of the Chernobyl disaster continues to affect generations, with many children suffering from congenital heart defects due to radiation exposure. Now, with hospitals overwhelmed by war casualties, CCI’s mission to provide specialised cardiac care is more vital than ever.