A paramedic who quit her job in the NHS in order to continuously take vital medical supplies to Ukraine has said it has become her life's work.

Kate Wilson left her job in the NHS in May 2021, and is now preparing for her 13th trip into Ukraine.

The group - named Medics to Medics - first delivered supplies at the start of the conflict last year, and has continued to take medical supplies to various locations throughout the country.

"It has become a more refined process," mother-of-three, Kate told Nub News. 

"There is no guesswork involved, I am in direct contact with the medics at the front line, surgeons and doctors who tell me exactly what they require at at any given time.

"It is all very specialised, and for the most part requires funds in order to purchase what they require."

Kate asks medical professionals in Ukraine what they need, and then raises funds to buy them (image supplied)

Kate now spends up to a week in Ukraine on each trip, getting the supplies distributed, and supporting specific individuals in need.

And while the conflict is receiving less and less media coverage in the UK, she said it was more important than ever for people to continue to lend what support they can.

"Some people even think the war is over, but actually it is still horrific," she added.

"So keeping that alive in people's minds and getting people to think about what is going on is as important as getting donations in. 

"It is horrific and I cannot put into words how bad it is at the front. It is a privilege we can help, that we meet the people we meet and that we can help. 

"People need to realise how bad it still is out there." 

Kate also buys vital medicine for people in Ukraine who have been forced to move and cannot afford them themselves (image supplied)

Despite the emotional and physical toll each trip takes however, Kate said she has no intention of calling it a day.

And she said even after the war is over, there will be a long-term need for support as the country gets back on its feet.

"Undeniably the situation is hard, with work, family life and trips to Ukraine," she explained.

"But over the course of the last 16 months I have got better at finding that balance.

"My long term plan is to turn this into a charity. This is my life's work now.

"And in order to keep serving the people of Ukraine, maintaining that balance is vital."

Kate stood on the main road inside Ukraine last winter (image supplied)

At the recent Ladies First Awards Kate was given a 'woman of courage' award for her continued commitment to Medics to Medics.

Despite the recognition though, she said still did not feel courageous.

"I am very grateful that it has been recognised but I do not feel I have done anything brave or courageous," she said. 

"The men and women at the front line, they literally risk their lives 24 hours a day to do what they do - they are the brave ones.

"In turn, the award has given a chance to remind people the war is still ongoing."

Kate said there are three ways you can help support Medics to Medics:

1. Like and share the Facebook page so it appears on more people's timelines so they can remain up to date with the situation.
2. Donate to the Just Giving Page.
3. Buy something specific from her UK supplier - they need to ask for Nicola who has the Medics to Medics wishlist.