Nail Yakupov: «I hope there will be more kind people in our world who will help everyone who needs it»

Neftekhimik wolves are tough and uncompromising on the ice, with an iron character and tough to play against for the top teams.

– What are they like in life? People with big hearts, full of empathy and compassion for those who find themselves in difficult situations, ready to help.

– Nail, this is not the first time we learn about your good deeds, but always from other people. We understand that you are a very modest person. Nevertheless, could you tell the story of your friendship with the medical institutions of our city.

– First of all, it started with upbringing. My parents told me that you should help if you have the opportunity. This should not be done with the expectation of something back to you. If a person is in a difficult situation, we need to help. As for the children's hospital, a good friend of our family, my parents, Ilsiyar Gabdulkhabirovna, works there. I do not even remember exactly where it started. That was not an easy time for medicine; many things were missing, including funding to purchase the most necessary things. There were many sick children; there were many abandoned children. We decided to help step by step. This is not for publicity, believe me, there are enough of those people who help and we do not know about this. Since then, I call and ask if there is anything they need, because, unfortunately, these problems will always exist. I wish there were less problems! Therefore, without question, if there is an opportunity, I will help.

– We know that helping the hospital is not the only thing. From what comes to our mind is that you helped families with special children and the coaches of Neftekhimik hockey school. Are you always ready to help people who need it?

– Unfortunately, you cannot help everyone. Nizhnekamsk is the place where I was born, where I grew up, went to school and learned how to play hockey, there are people around me whom I have known since my childhood. I succeeded with my career; I managed to move to another professional level. We must not forget our native places, the people who helped us, the organizations which helped me to be who I am now. They helped me, and I definitely ready to help them. There should be gratitude.

The decision to help was not difficult; you know, it is kind of feeling that comes from inside of you. I have not done any big things; I can afford these things, there is no big amount of financial side. Doing something nice for children, parents, and coaches is completely normal thing. In many cases, it is not even about money. When coaches invite me to held master classes, practices, or just to meet with children and talk with parents, I am always ready, of course, when I have a free time and an opportunity to do it.

– What does this help give you?

– There is definitely no feeling of pride and joy. Moreover, after some time, you forget about thing you did. At the same time, this help continues to bring a little joy and benefit to people, maybe it helps someone’s health. There is no feeling of euphoria either. Sometimes these are very difficult moments when you see children with special needs and their parents who have such a difficult situation. If my help makes their life even a little easier, then everything is being done in a right way. I can do this, for me it is quite possible. Sometimes, if you want something done well, do it yourself.

I hope there will be more kind people in our world who will help everyone who needs it, both adults and children! Happy New Year! All the best and best wishes!