For the past two weeks, the international community has been watching news coverage of Russian forces invading Ukraine. We watched as deadly airstrikes on civilian targets, like schools and hospitals, forced families to leave their homes and huddle in subway bomb shelters. We watched as communities were destroyed, forcing more than two million people to run for their lives while others were ordered or volunteered to stay and fight. This crisis is splitting apart families and creating a growing refugee crisis in neighboring countries. We cannot fathom what they are going through.
As part of the international community, members and staff of the College of American Pathologists’ (CAP) fear for the safety of loved ones in Ukraine as well as those with family in Russia who will also suffer in the aftermath of this crisis. Our hearts ache for the lives already lost.
As part of the global medical community—representing more than 18,000 physicians worldwide—we stand with our colleagues from Eastern Europe.
We often feel helpless at times like this and want to know what we can do. Consider making a donation to verified charities assisting civilians impacted by the conflict. Let’s take care of one another.
Emily E. Volk, MD, FCAP
President
College of American Pathologists