A Transformative Visit: Ukrainian Neurosurgeon Davyd Staryk in Australia

Dr Davyd Staryk, a young neurosurgeon from Dnipro, Ukraine, recently completed a transformative visit to Australia, offering a rare opportunity for skill-sharing and respite amidst the ongoing war in his homeland. Davyd has been working tirelessly on the medical frontlines of the conflict, performing spinal and cranial surgeries to remove shrapnel and bullets from the brains and spines of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians. His harrowing experiences and unwavering commitment to his country’s fight for survival made this visit both meaningful and impactful.

I first met Davyd at a retreat for the Christian Medical Association of Ukraine near Kyiv when I was visiting Ukraine (read the article about my trip HERE). It was a sobering setting, where the weight of war hung over everyone present. During our conversations, Davyd described gruelling shifts, often stretching over 14 hours, as he navigated the chaos of war medicine. Despite these challenges, he expressed a profound desire to develop his expertise in spinal neurosurgery, not only to provide better care for his patients but also to train and support his colleagues. His dedication, even in such dire circumstances, was deeply inspiring. (See the video HERE)

When Dr Rudi Myhovich of the Christian Medical Association of Ukraine visited Australia in early 2024 for a speaking and networking tour, an extraordinary opportunity arose. (Read about the visit HERE) A highly respected Australian spinal neurosurgeon Dr Toby Loch-Wilkinson generously offered to organise Davyd’s visit and thanks to donations it was able to be arranged. This invitation opened doors for Davyd to collaborate with some of Australia’s leading neurosurgeons, attend specialised courses, and gain hands-on exposure to advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment unavailable in Ukraine. All of this was thanks to the time and generosity of spirit of people like Dr Toby, Liam O Droma and the team and surgeons at LifeHealthcare and the team at Globus Medical who sponsored the course.

Davyd’s visit was rich with professional learning and cultural exchange. Over the course of his stay, he worked alongside Australian surgeons across various specialties, observing and practising innovative surgical methods. He attended a specialised spinal surgery course, which he described as a career-defining experience. At one point, his characteristic humour emerged when he quipped that he now “knew more than the chief of staff” at his hospital back home—a light-hearted testament to the depth of knowledge he had gained.

Beyond the operating rooms, Davyd experienced the warmth of Australian hospitality. Colleagues opened their home to him in Brisbane, providing not only a place to stay but also a cultural immersion getting to visit Enogerra Dam and Moreton Bay Island. Then later in Sydney, my colleague, Dr John Whitehall, and his wife, ensured Davyd explored Australia’s unique wildlife, including the chance to pat kangaroos and koalas—experiences that provided brief but welcome relief from the emotional toll of his work in Ukraine.

This visit was not only about skills development; it was also a moment of respite for a man who has been on the medical frontlines of a brutal war. The war in Ukraine has placed an immense burden on its healthcare workers, who face resource shortages, psychological strain, and unrelenting demands. For Davyd, the time in Australia offered a chance to recharge and find renewed strength to continue his vital work back home.

Davyd’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of international solidarity and cooperation. By welcoming him and providing opportunities for professional growth, Australian surgeons and supporters have directly contributed to the recovery and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Such partnerships underscore the shared humanity that transcends borders, as skilled professionals unite to address global crises.

Looking ahead, there is immense potential for more initiatives like this one. Many talented Ukrainian medical professionals would benefit greatly from similar opportunities to upskill and recharge. For those inspired to contribute, donations or sponsorships for these programs are invaluable. Additionally, we encourage doctors and surgeons in Australia and beyond to consider hosting future visits to foster these critical exchanges.

You can donate HERE or contact us at opt@passingthrough.net

In the coming weeks, I plan to share a  more detailed interview with Davyd, capturing his reflections on the visit and his aspirations for the future. For now, his journey demonstrates the power of collaboration in rebuilding lives and nations. Together, we can continue to support those working tirelessly to heal a country and its people, one surgery at a time.