The Resilience of Medical Professionals During War

This documentary, produced with the support of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation, highlights the stories of doctors at the National Children's Specialized Hospital «Okhmatdyt» and their fearless work during the war. In March 2022, director Svitlana Rudyuk filmed the first scenes of «Not Like Before» within the hospital, witnessing the heroism of medical staff who save lives daily. The crew spent time alongside the doctors, often staying overnight in the hospital, sheltering from airstrikes.

In July 2024, the hospital once again became the focus of global attention following a tragic event when a Russian missile struck the medical facility. This tragedy further underscored the courage of Ukrainian doctors, who, despite their injuries, continued to provide care to those in need.

In 2025, the film crew returned to «Okhmatdyt» to learn how the medical staff recovered from the attack on the hospital in the summer of 2024.

The central figures of the film are Valeriy Bovkun, a microsurgeon, and Aliona Bezlehkа, a physical therapist. They share their experiences and the challenges they faced during this crisis.

Valeriy states, «The hardest part is seeing injured children whose childhood has been destroyed by war. My mission is to help these children return to a normal life.»

Aliona adds, «In the early days of the invasion, I felt a profound sense of uncertainty and deep injustice, especially for the children arriving with amputations. As a physical therapist, it was a new and terrifying experience, as we all learned together how to assist these children.»

Over 1000 minutes of footage was captured, which was edited into a medium-length film «Not Like Before» (46 minutes).

Director Svitlana Rudyuk remarked, «This film is a tribute to those who save and improve lives daily. I aimed to be a part of their world, supporting them without being a hindrance.»

We live in constant uncertainty but continue to fight for a better future. «When we win, we will live with dignity, even if it’s not like before.»

The premiere of the film will take place on the Megogo platform until September 21, and thereafter it will be distributed at festivals.