Ukrainian doctor leads delivery of supplies to Ukraine from Rochdale

Dr Sergey Tadtayev, a consultant urologist surgeon, has managed to collect the urgent medical supplies which are being delivered directly to hospitals in his homeland.

The supplies include ventilators, bandages, wound kits, operating tables and crutches.

Dr Tadtayev said: "My heart breaks for my fellow doctors back home who are fighting heroically to care for the sick and wounded – even as the bombs continue to fall.

"Hospitals are struggling to get basic supplies because transport and manufacturing have been so badly disrupted, so I knew I had to do something to help."

He has managed to collect and distribute the supplies with the help of The Highfields Hospital and Circle Health Group, the hospital's operator.

In response to direct requests from Ukrainian doctors, Highfields has worked with the Ukrainian doctors’ union, Ukraine Medical Association, and the British Red Cross to identify the needs of war-hit hospitals.

The latest delivery to those in need arrived on Easter Sunday and contained £185,500 of medical equipment loaded into a truck.

Dr Tadtayev said: "Moving over 100 tonnes of medical supplies between hospitals separated by thousands of miles and several borders has been an incredible team effort, and I have been overwhelmed by the generosity of my colleagues at Circle Health Group.

"They are moving heaven and earth to get help to those who really need it on the frontline, and I am humbled by the solidarity and support for my homeland."

Pablo Pieri, chief executive of Circle Health Group, said: "Working directly with Sergey and his Ukrainian medical colleagues we are able to understand their exact needs and get targeted aid to them directly in some of the most difficult parts of the country."

As of Wednesday, April 27, readers of The Oldham Times and other Newsquest papers have helped to raise over £33,000 to be donated to the Red Cross' Ukraine Humanitarian appeal.