Humanity : A UCF student risked her life to help others

A UCF student risked her life to help others in Ukraine. She never expected to wake up in a war zone, but wants to stay and help Despite the danger, she is determined to make a difference and help those in need. She knows that if she can save just one life, it will be worth it. She is a true hero.

Photo byMia Willard Facebook

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has now surpassed a year, may seem like a distant reality for many Floridians. However, for University of Central Florida student Mia Willard, who resides in Kyiv and attends virtual classes, it is a daily reality. Despite the physical distance from her father, who lives in Lake Nona, Willard has devoted her time and energy to humanitarian efforts and supporting those who have suffered greatly as a result of the war.

Recently, Willard returned to Florida to spend some time with her father and shared her experiences with Matt Austin and Ginger Gadsden on Florida's Fourth Estate. During the interview, she discussed the challenges of providing assistance to survivors in various parts of Ukraine, as well as the impact of Russia's attack on the country. Willard's story sheds light on the importance of international cooperation and the power of individual action in the face of global crises.

She is a true hero.

Photo byMia Willard Facebook

In an interview, Willard recounted her experiences during the conflict in Ukraine. Initially, she was in disbelief when news of the full-scale invasion broke out. However, a call from a friend in Florida at 4:57 a.m. alerted her to the gravity of the situation. Moments later, a Russian jet was shot down near her house, and the chaos began.

As the conflict raged on:

Willard sought shelter in a basement with her family. Once the initial shock subsided, she turned her attention to helping others. Willard decided against evacuating early on and instead began bringing medical supplies to those in need. She was one of the first volunteers on the scene and saw the aftermath of the conflict up close. Despite the danger, Willard resolved to continue her humanitarian work as the territories were de-occupied.

Willard has also been to Bakhmut, which she describes as one of the hottest war zones in Ukraine currently. While she takes pride in her work helping others, she has also experienced the pain of loss. She recently received news of a friend's death. He was a soldier who died protecting their country in Donbass. Willard mourns his loss and remembers him as one of the sweetest guys one could ever meet.