Julia Cardy, a resident of Fredericton, is embarking on a journey on October 14 to walk more than 250 kilometers along the Confederation Trail in Prince Edward Island. She is carrying the flag of the Alcatraz Battalion, a unit of Ukraine’s 93rd Mechanized Brigade. This flag has already traveled 700 kilometers with April Huggett, Cardy’s friend from Castlegar, B.C., who walked from Kyiv to Kramatorsk to raise funds and awareness for Ukrainian soldiers.
Huggett’s experience of carrying the flag along the front line during her break as a senior combat medic in Ukraine changed her perspective on the war. She expressed how the walk altered her motivations and highlighted the unity among individuals in challenging times. Now, Cardy is continuing the flag’s journey in P.E.I., aiming to raise $100,000 for the battalion through Planet of People.
The friendship between Cardy and Huggett blossomed from their mutual interest in helping Ukraine. They bonded over fundraising efforts, aid deliveries, and time spent together in the country. Cardy’s involvement in Ukrainian affairs dates back to 2004 when she observed elections in the country. Following the Russian invasion in 2022, she assisted Ukrainian refugees in relocating to New Brunswick.
Their joint efforts have extended to supporting an orphanage in Kharkiv, aiding in providing essentials for children in need. Cardy’s firsthand experiences in Ukraine during volunteer work with Huggett have deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by the people in the conflict zone.
The flag symbolizes the connection between supporters of Ukraine and the individuals directly involved in the conflict. It represents solidarity, hope, and a shared commitment to a peaceful resolution. The flag’s significance transcends individual efforts and embodies a collective desire for the war to end.
As the flag continues its journey, carrying the signatures of Canadian supporters, Cardy remains dedicated to carrying it along the P.E.I. trail. She recognizes the limitations of individual actions but emphasizes the importance of taking each step towards making a difference in the ongoing crisis.
