Newsletter
April 2024
Holiday Greetings, News & Events
Dear Friends,
Today marks six months since the brutal terrorist attack that led to the Swords of Iron War. On October 7, we at Soroka Medical Center stood at the forefront of medical care with endless dedication and heroism, treating the victims of the atrocious attack. We cared for the hundreds of victims who came to us at their most difficult hour. Together, we saved lives and did our utmost to provide emotional comfort. This activity had no precedent in Western medicine, and I am proud of Soroka’s employees for their tireless devotion and professional action on that terrible day.

Since then, we have been coping with the most challenging period ever faced by the State of Israel, the Negev region, and Soroka’s employees, both personally and professionally: We continue to play a pivotal role at the forefront of medical treatment for war victims and will continue to fulfill this critically important mission. So far, we have treated over 3,000 wounded, including over 2,000 soldiers, and saved many lives. Sadly, we have lost beloved co-workers.

We have implemented new treatment approaches and performed some 750 surgeries. We have cared for the wounded and their families, attempting to alleviate their suffering and ensure that they can return to their lives with maximum functional capacity. We initiated rehabilitation treatment for hundreds of injured individuals in the acute care wards and continued it for dozens in our Rehabilitation Department.

We were privileged to accompany and provide medical treatment to six hostages who returned from Gaza. One of them is still hospitalized at Soroka and is progressing in her rehabilitation process. We provide sensitive and tailored care to the war victims— the wounded, the family members, and people who were evacuated from their homes. Every day, we witness the mental and physical effects of war on the victims. We are the people of the Negev, and this is our community. These effects will continue to impact the victims for years, and we will continue to be attentive and sensitive and adapt our medical services to their needs.

We united together for Nili Margalit, a Soroka nurse who was abducted and returned from captivity 55 days later. We continue to care for our colleagues and the family members of our employees who were injured in battle to protect our home and hope they will return to us as soon as possible. We continue to maintain a high level of vigilance. We practice scenarios we have never experienced to ensure we can fulfill our mission no matter what happens.

The victims’ families continuously express their enormous appreciation for the work of Soroka employees and the warm, personal treatment their loved ones receive. They share countless moving anecdotes about Soroka employees’ efforts to embrace and care for them and their loved ones. These stories illustrate our staff’s sensitivity, dedication, and sense of fighting for our homeland and highlight the human strength that manifests in these moments, allowing us to grow and become stronger together.

We pray for the safe return of the hostages and the IDF soldiers.

You, our dear friends, are part of these efforts, and we are extremely grateful for your support during this challenging time.

Yours,
Dr. Shlomi Codish, Director General
Soroka Medical Center
Soroka Director General Dr. Shlomi Codish
Specialized rehabilitation equipment helps the wounded regain their abilities
In the heart of Israel, just 22 miles from Gaza, Soroka Medical Center witnessed one of the largest mass casualty events due to terror on October 7th. With unwavering courage and dedication, Soroka’s Director General Dr. Shlomi Codish and his team faced an unprecedented challenge. In the first 24 hours following the Hamas terrorist attacks, Soroka’s emergency department treated a staggering 680 patients, with many in critical condition. The logistics of the response were orchestrated with singular precision and vision, as the hospital mobilized to create space, amass urgently needed equipment and supplies, and see around the corner to what would be needed tomorrow. We at American Friends of Soroka Medical Center jumped into action, and helped muster the financial resources essential to supporting Soroka Medical Center during this critical time.

In the surreal early hours of October 7, the hospital staff rushed to duty amid the chaos. With air sirens blaring, absent information about loved ones, Soroka staff members from every department united to fulfill Soroka’s promise to the State of Israel and people of the Negev, to save lives and heal the wounded.

As friends of Soroka, we must continue to rise to the occasion and sustain our mission to support and supply Soroka Medical Center, and continue to provide urgently needed aid. This is a moment of truth, and American Friends of Soroka is proud to stand strong with Soroka, the people of the Negev, and the State of Israel.

There are many ways for you to join our lifesaving mission. We invite you to join us in NYC on June 4 for an evening of support for Soroka in NYC. It is always an honor to support our donors in their personal fund-raising initiative, which can focus on helping acquire essential equipment, such as the rehabilitation unit pictured above.

As we celebrate the Spring holidays of Easter and Passover, we wish you a season of blessings. We give thanks for the amazing support that you have already provided. Together, we will meet this challenge, and continue to build a future of health.
Caroline Franklin Freidfertig
President
Rachel Heisler Sheinfeld
Executive Director

Standing Strong for Soroka: A Night of Unity with Lior Raz
On November 1st, 2023, Lior Raz, renowned actor of ‘Fauda’ and dedicated Israel advocate, stood alongside AFS in support of Soroka Medical Center. TV Anchor and reporter, Tara Rosenblum led a dynamic dialogue with Lior: attendees were treated to a behind-the-scenes look into ‘Fauda’, and delved deep into Soroka’s pivotal humanitarian role in providing urgent care to the wounded during this time of crisis.
Netanel Hershstik, Cantor of the Hampton Synagogue, performed the prayer for the IDF and the State of Israel
Lior Raz in conversation with Tara Rosenbaum, News 12 anchor and reporter
Marc Schneier, Founding / Senior Rabbi of the Hampton Synagogue
Lior Raz in conversation with Tara Rosenbaum, News 12 anchor and reporter
Guests included members of the board of American Friends of Soroka Medical Center

A Future of Health: Breakthroughs in Genetic Research
Soroka Medical Center is a beacon of innovation, medical excellence and groundbreaking research that transcends borders and impacts lives worldwide. Professor Ohad Birk, the head of the Genetics Institute of Soroka Medical Center and the Morris Kahn Human Molecular Genetics Lab at BGU, together with his team are renowned for pioneering work in decoding rare genetic diseases addressing the unique and complex medical challenges faced by diverse segments of society, making significant strides in disease prevention and management.

Their proactive outreach and counseling efforts underscore the importance of genetic research in addressing healthcare challenges across different cultures and backgrounds. Leveraging advanced techniques in carrier testing, clinical and prenatal diagnosis, and genetic counseling, Soroka Medical Center remains at the forefront of improving healthcare not only for the residents of the Negev but also for communities worldwide.
In October 2023, Professor Birk presented his work in New York City and in Miami, shedding light on the transformative discoveries emanating from Soroka Medical Center. With expertise honed through leading Soroka’s Genetics Institute, the Morris Kahn Laboratory of Human Genetics at Ben-Gurion University, and Israel’s National Research Center for Rare/Orphan Diseases, Professor Birk discussed his team’s breakthroughs in decoding over fifty genetic disorders.

On October 2 at The Explorers Club, Prof. Birk focused on work with Bedouin communities, highlighting the team’s decoding of over 40 genetic diseases amongst the Bedouin, providing insights into the collaborative efforts driving advancements in health within these traditional communities. At Congregation Shearith Israel on October 4, Professor Birk expanded on his laboratory’s efforts to decode rare genetic diseases affecting Sephardic communities worldwide. Delving into the team’s research spanning Iranian, Indian, and Ethiopian Jewish Genetics, he underscored the global impact of Soroka’s initiatives.

On October 5, in Coral Gables, Miami Birk’s talk was titled “A Future of Health: Breakthroughs in Genetic Research,” and served as a platform to highlight Soroka’s innovative approaches to genetic research, emphasizing its potential to shape a future of improved healthcare. Attendees gained valuable insights into the collaborative initiatives driving advancements in health, both locally and globally, contributing to a future of peace and coexistence. Professor Birk boarded the plane back to Israel on October 6, arriving on October 7.

Soroka Hosts Opening Ceremony for the Dr. Joel Sheinfeld Urology Institute
The Dr. Joel Sheinfeld Urology Institute at Soroka Medical Center is a groundbreaking initiative that is transforming urologic care in the southern region of Israel. The inauguration ceremony, held on January 22, was a momentous occasion that brought together esteemed medical professionals, community leaders, and patients alike. Among them were Mr. Eli Cohen, CEO of Clalit , Dr. Shlomi Codish, Director General of Soroka Medical Center, and Dr. Orly Weinstein, Deputy Director and Head of Clalit General Hospital Division. Prof. Nicola Mabjeesh, the Chair of Urology at Soroka, is leading the Urology department through this era of development and impact with a bold vision and academic brilliance, coupled with patient focus and inspirational commitment.
Dr. Shlomi Codish, Rachel Heisler, Prof. Nicola Mabjeesh, Eli Cohen, Dr. Orly Weinstein
This state-of-the-art academic institute, a first of its kind in Israel, is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of urology, improving patient outcomes, and training the urologic surgeons of tomorrow. The institute is built on a foundation of research, innovation, education, and global collaboration. Its mission is to enhance the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of urologic diseases. This institute epitomizes Soroka Medical Center’s pledge to build a future of health and medical advancement. You can learn more about this special project at Soroka.org/Urology.

Medical Volunteers Helping Preserve Vision
Since the beginning of the war, Soroka has treated 3000 wounded, including over 150 suffering from ocular injuries. Some of them have sustained injuries in both eyes and required emergency surgeries to save or restore their vision. These surgeries have helped them avoid any future vision issues and improve their quality of life.
Dr. Itay Wiser, a NYC plastic surgeon who serves as Co-Chair of the AFS Medical and Scientific Advisory Council, partnered with the ILUSDocAid, helping facilitate over 100 volunteer physicians for Israel. He focused in particular on Ophthalmology, as Soroka was receiving a surge of eye injuries.

Dr. Sid Schechet, M.D. of the Elman Retina Group in Baltimore, Maryland and Dr. Larry S. Halperin of the Retinal Group of Florida in Boca Raton, are 2 of the 12 extraordinary US retinal surgeons who come to Soroka as volunteers over the past months. For two weeks, these hightly-trained specialists were on a sight-saving mission, operating non-stop, helping their Soroka peers restore vision to severely wounded soldiers and community members.

One of the patients treated by Schechet was a soldier who sustained a bilateral open globe with metallic foreign bodies. “I honestly didn’t know what would happen to him after I repaired his severely damaged eyes earlier in the week. I was scared for when he’d first awaken to hear what happened to his team and to then to open his eyes only to realize he had no vision.”

Following many additional procedures, the heroic young man has recovered vision.

Soroka is seeking support to add an addition Ophthalmology Operating room, and to acquire new cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment devices. Please visit Soroka.org/Vision for more information.

STORIES OF RESILIENCE: SIX MONTHS OF HEALING THE WOUNDED
Israel’s Iron Dome for Health - Soroka’s War Experience
Soroka Medical Center, just 22 miles from Gaza, has faced unprecedented challenges, exemplifying incomparable resilience, tirelessly providing critical medical care to those affected by the conflict. Soroka’s response to the horrors of October 7th, marked by the largest hospital mass-casualty event in its history, underscores its unwavering commitment to saving lives.

Within the first 24 hours, with 680 patients arriving at Soroka, the teams performed 85 surgeries, transfused 200 blood units, conducted 180 CT scans and received 15 helicopter landings. While the gravity of injuries and the relentless stream of patients strained the hospital’s resources, Soroka’s dedicated staff consistently exemplifies unwavering commitment and remarkable fortitude. In response to escalating needs, Soroka has expanded its capabilities, opening new intensive care and rehabilitation units to meet the surging needs.
President Isaac Herzog arrived on October 9 to visit the wounded, stating: In the hospital rooms at Soroka I see “what Israeli resilience is, what Israeli heroism is, with a huge heart, a sense of mission and unity”.

With Dr. Codish’s leadership, Soroka transformed into a sanctuary for the wounded, a fortress against terror. Soroka’s Deputy Director General, Dr. Dan Schwarzfuchs stood shoulder-to-shoulder with him, treating patients in the emergency unit around the clock. With an unwavering commitment to healing the body and spirit, Soroka Medical Center is a testament to cutting-edge medicine, compassion and innovation —a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.

Soroka leads the medical response, treating approximately 3000 wounded patients to date
collaborating closely with IDF leadership to address the evolving needs of the region. In anticipation of the release of the hostages, Soroka established a specialized unit to warmly welcome these individuals and their families for highly personalized medical treatment and care.
Among the first wounded received was a pregnant woman, her abdomen riddled with multiple gunshot wounds. The surgical report revealed the unimaginable: bullets extracted from her unborn child. Dr. Codish’s team also cared for a young woman shot in her pajamas, a child with four gunshot wounds, and twin babies found hours after the attacks—hidden in a safe room.

Maya Regev and her brother Itay, both held captive for 54 days after being kidnapped from the Supernova music festival, were brought to Soroka upon their release from captivity. Maya, having undergone complex surgical procedures on her left leg after being shot by terrorists, is now on her rehabilitation journey, supported by Soroka’s expert medical team. Itay reunited with his sister at Soroka, and both siblings were discharged after receiving the specialized care they needed.
Aisha and Bilal, released after enduring 55 days as hostages, also received comprehensive medical examinations and care at Soroka. With sensitivity and cultural awareness, Soroka established specialized care to support the siblings and their families throughout their recovery process. Both Aisha and Bilal were discharged following their treatment at Soroka.
Additionally, Soroka has provided essential care to Elma Avraham, an 84-year-old woman airlifted from Gaza in critical condition due to multi-system health issues. Under the vigilant care of Soroka’s specialist team, Elma is currently in stable condition.

On a subsequent visit, President Isaac Herzog’s stated: “It’s an immense honor to be here. Michal and I witnessed firsthand the resilience of this hospital and its staff during the war’s onset. Your unwavering dedication and strength in the face of adversity are truly remarkable. Your tireless efforts showcase the extraordinary capabilities of our people in providing crucial medical care, both to civilians and soldiers, in unprecedented circumstances.” As the conflict persists, Soroka as Israel’s Medical Iron Dome, role as a lifeline becomes increasingly crucial. Thank you for being part of fortifying Soroka’s humanitarian promise to the people of Israel to provide outstanding, proactive medical care during this critical time.
Patient Highlight: Shachar Shiloni
Amidst an IDF operation in Khan Yunis, Staff Sergeant Shachar Shiloni sustained severe injuries to his left leg from enemy fire. He received immediate on-site treatment before being transported Soroka’s Trauma Center by helicopter. He was admitted to the General Intensive Care Unit, where a team of dedicated medical professionals worked tirelessly to stabilize his condition. Following initial care, Shachar was transferred to the Orthopedic Department to embark on a journey of rehabilitation and recovery.
Shachar recently returned to Soroka, accompanied by his family, to close the circle of his healing journey and express profound gratitude to the unwavering medical teams. His fiancée, Tamar, spoke from the heart, saying, “We returned to express our deepest gratitude—for the tireless care, the unwavering dedication, the love, the moments of joy, and the compassionate ears that listened. There is simply no one like you!”

Reflecting on Shachar’s remarkable journey, Dr. Ohad Gavai, a senior physician in the General Intensive Care Unit, shared, “Shachar arrived amidst the chaos of severe injury, facing the daunting challenge of losing part of his left leg. Following surgery, he remained sedated and ventilated for three days. Upon awakening, his first request was to put on tefillin. Witnessing this moment of profound faith amidst adversity was deeply moving for me. I extend my heartfelt wishes for his continued success in overcoming every obstacle and for the blossoming of a beautiful future with his fiancée. Shachar’s courage and heroism inspire us all.”

Patient Highlight: Hadar from Kibbutz Be’eri
Hadar Bakar, a 13-year-old girl from Kibbutz Be’eri was treated at Soroka Medical Center in the early stages of the conflict. Hadar arrived at the hospital alongside her father, Aviad, both injured and in pain, mourning the loss of two beloved family members—her mother, Dana, and her 15-year-old brother, Carmel. During the height of the conflict, terrorists infiltrated their home, raining down gunfire and grenades upon the room where they sought refuge. For 13 hours, Hadar sent out distress signals, reaching out to all emergency services in a desperate attempt to summon help. Simultaneously, she courageously tried to save her injured family members who had lost consciousness.
Despite the immense trauma she endured, Hadar arrived at the hospital with resilience. “I was always taught to find joy and remain optimistic,” she shares. “And so, I wish the same for myself and my family. I know that ultimately, we will prevail.” Hadar received dedicated care from multidisciplinary teams, including trauma specialists, vascular surgeons, pediatric surgeons, and plastic surgeons.

Staff highlight: Nili Margalit
Nili Margalit, a 41-year-old pediatric emergency room nurse, exemplifies bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to others. When Hamas terrorists invaded her home in the Kibbutz Nir Oz community, they killed and kidnapped more than a quarter of the kibbutz residents. Amidst the chaos, Nili was taken hostage.
For nearly two months, Nili displayed extraordinary compassion in the face of adversity. In the underground confines of a tunnel, with scant medical provisions, she tended to her fellow hostages, many of whom were elderly and grappling with severe health issues. She managed to obtain essential medical supplies to help her treat the wounded and ailing hostages, helping others survive and demonstrating her unwavering commitment to healing even in the bleakest of circumstances. She resourcefully even used honey as a disinfectant.

Nili’s resilience extended beyond her role as a nurse. She became a symbol of hope, with medical professionals worldwide rallying behind her cause. Nili regained her freedom on Nov. 30. Her dedication to healing, even amidst captivity, serves as a universal beacon of inspiration.

Staff highlight: Rachel Mazuz, Labor and Delivery Nurse
Rachel Mazuz, a devoted Labor and Delivery nurse, faced the final weeks of her second pregnancy amidst tension and concern. Her husband, Lidor, serves as a reservist fighter in the Negev Brigade, having been called up when the conflict began. With profound joy and relief, Lidor managed to be by Rachel’s side for the birth of their son.
“Throughout the entire war, we hardly saw each other,” Rachel shares. “Especially since the ground offensive into the Gaza Strip, except for brief and infrequent phone calls.” One Saturday morning, Rachel informed Lidor that she was heading to the delivery room. Without hesitation, he rushed to be with her during the birth. Following the delivery, Rachel returned to her department—this time not as a nurse but as a new mother. “The team cared for me and looked after me just like they do for every laboring woman here,” Rachel says. “There’s nothing quite like Labor and Delivery Unit A—a truly remarkable team.”

Unforgettable Night of Art and Philanthropy at Soroka Friends Theater Party benefiting the Francis and Nathan Kirsh Trauma Center
Miami’s Rubell Museum was the vibrant backdrop for an extraordinary evening on Thursday, February 29th, as Soroka Friends hosted a benefit featuring a cutting-edge theater experience, “The Museum Plays,” produced by Miami New Drama. Attendees were treated to an immersive journey through art and storytelling, conceived and directed by Michel Hausmann, which brought the museum’s artwork to life in an unforgettable performance.
The event was a resounding success, with guests reveling in the unique and intimate artistic experience while contributing to Soroka Medical Center’s vital humanitarian mission. Soroka’s crucial role as Israel’s Medical Iron Dome in the Negev region, attendees embraced the transformative power of creativity and expression, celebrating the resilience of Soroka’s staff and the center’s unwavering commitment to healing.
The evening was a testament to the fusion of art and philanthropy, with proceeds directly supporting Soroka’s continued efforts to provide best-in-class trauma care, with the capacity to handle the unexpected, especially in times of crisis. As Soroka leads the medical response during these turbulent times, the generosity of our patrons ensures the center’s ability to deliver proactive and outstanding care to all those it serves.

President’s Luncheon at the Museum of Jewish Heritage
On March 10, AFS hosted an event resonating with gratitude and solidarity: the inaugural President’s Luncheon of Gratitude held at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in NYC. This event paid homage to the steadfast support from both new and longstanding donors who generously contributed to the Soroka Medical Center’s Emergency Fund during ‘Operation Swords of Iron.’
Executive Director Rachel Heisler and Board President Caroline Freidfertig welcomed the guests, highlighting the extraordinary leadership demonstrated by Soroka amidst the crisis, and shared a moving video presentation. Rachel’s opening remarks highlighted the challenges faced by the Soroka during the crisis, the extraordinary leadership of the Soroka Medical Center team, and the relentless dedication of the American Friends of Soroka Board leadership. Interspersed were narratives of survival, compassionate care for liberated hostages, the hospital’s crisis response, and its pivotal role in rehabilitating the wounded. The event was a testament to Soroka’s unique blend of cutting-edge medicine, compassion, and a pioneering spirit. The event concluded with a note of gratitude for the support and partnership with Soroka, emphasizing its strategic importance to the State of Israel and heralding the promise of the resurgence of the Negev.
Pillars of Progress Gala: June 4
American Friends of Soroka Medical Center (AFS) will host its 11th Annual “Pillars of Progress” Gala on June 4th at the Pierre Hotel, spotlighting recent strides made by Soroka Medical Center in advancing urologic care, underscored by the recent opening of the Dr. Sheinfeld Urology Institute. The evening will honor three remarkable individuals, each pillars of their respective communities: H.E. Rabbi Dr. Elie Abadie, Recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal of Honor; Dr. David Goldberg Recipient of the Healthcare Champion Medal of Honor, and Dr. Joel Sheinfeld, Recipient of the Humanitarian Award. Carlos M. Gutierrez, Angela Retelny and Ruth Steinberg are co-chairs of this special evening. Soroka.org/Gala.
H.E. Rabbi Dr. Elie Abadie, Dr. David Goldberg & Dr. Joel Sheinfeld
Amidst these strides, Soroka Medical Center has displayed unparalleled valor in its response to the ongoing conflict, providing critical medical aid and care to Israel’s wounded. Their heroic efforts in the face of adversity stand as a testament to their unwavering dedication to saving lives. Please join us to celebrate our special honorees and pay tribute to Soroka’s extraordinary role in healing Israel’s wounded.

Renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence, Soroka Medical Center is where the future of health begins with a model of medical care that emphasizes clinical excellence, scientific innovation, and education. Strategically focusing on the continuous development and improvement of services, infrastructure, and capabilities, the Dr. Joel Sheinfeld Urology Institute is emblematic of Soroka Medical Center’s commitment to providing state-of -the-art advancing the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of urologic diseases. Through medical excellence and global

collaboration, Soroka will advance the future of urologic care in the Negev. Cantor Netanel Hershtik of Hamptons Synagogue will provide an inspirational musical interlude. There will be auctions featuring coveted items and experiences. To learn more about the gala, secure tickets, place tribute journal ads and explore the auction, please visit Soroka.org/Gala or call the AFS office at 914-725-9070.
Upcoming Events
  • June 4, 2024 - Pillars of Progress Gala, NYC
  • Oct 16, 2024 - AFS Mission to Israel

Newsletter Editor: Rahel Shamailova-Inkateshta