From Kosovo to Ukraine with a Broken Wheel and a Gracious Samaritan

Facing a breakdown on the road to Ukraine, a serendipitous encounter with Mohammad in Sofia turned a mechanical mishap into a heartwarming tale of kindness.

An unexpected car breakdown in Bulgaria led to a heartwarming encounter with Mohammad, a kind Lebanese mechanic, who fixed my car and shared his incredible journey.

Mohammad Ozeir on the phone with clients at his garage in Bozhurishte, Sofia, Bulgaria, Monday, July 8, 2024. (Photo © Gunpowder Chronicles)

It has been several months since my last venture to Ukraine. Following my last visit in December 2022, with a few brief returns in 2023, the time has come again. Preparing for this journey, I meticulously serviced my car, readying myself for the long drive from Kosovo through North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, and finally into Ukraine. Yet, as journeys often do, mine took an unexpected turn when an unfortunate mishap with my car’s front right wheel brought my travels to an abrupt halt.

Somewhere on the road, the screws of my wheel had mysteriously loosened, leading to the wheel bearing nearly dismantling—effectively, my car was broken. Faced with this mechanical calamity, I contacted my…