Joshua Mayers, a 34-year-old man from Edmonton, was tragically killed while serving as a medic with the Ukrainian military. His family describes him as a caring and humble son, brother, and husband. Mayers had previously worked as a paramedic in Alberta, including nearly 10 years with Alberta Health Services, and he went to Ukraine in September to offer his help during Russia’s nearly two-year-long invasion.
His mother, Janet Penner Epp, spoke about her son’s humility, saying he never bragged about his achievements. She recounted that many of his heroic stories were heard from other people in his life. The family was informed that Mayers had been sent out with a group of soldiers to protect a tree line two weeks ago near the eastern city of Bakhmut.
According to the Ukrainian Embassy in Ottawa, Mayers was reported missing in the vicinity of Klishchiivka, Donetsk region. Global Affairs Canada is aware of the incident and is working with local authorities to provide consular assistance. The department is also aware of nine Canadians who have been killed in Ukraine since the Russian invasion.
Mayers’ mother expressed gratitude for the truth about her son’s death. She recounted that her son’s co-worker in Edmonton was informed through a group chat with his military colleagues in Ukraine that Mayers had died in a drone strike. Irvin Mayers, Joshua’s father, recalled his son’s desire to make a difference in the world, and how he felt he wasn’t doing enough to help people, which led him to join the battle in Ukraine.
The family is uncertain if or when they will be able to bring Mayers’ body back to Canada. Due to the advanced fighting and the movement of the Russian front, there is no opportunity for the Ukrainian military to recover his body. An online fundraiser has been started to help cover immediate expenses for Mayers’ wife, and the family is planning a celebration of life in Edmonton for next week.