Valentyn Vodolazskyi lived a peaceful life until war came to his home city of Popasna, in the Luhansk region of Ukraine. 

Valentyn was born with hip dysplasia and would in 2022 need his left hip replaced. What happened next is a remarkable story about first survival from war and then finding a way to look ahead with spirit and generosity to the future. 

Leading the way in his rehabilitation, golf’s offering of a sanctuary and a personal challenge in the most difficult of times is a great example of how this sport can help people from all backgrounds to get the most out of the life ahead. 

With great thanks to the Ukrainian Golf Federation and to Valentyn Vodolazskyi himself, EDGA shares his story here.