Rafael Bar Mitzvah

Dear Family & Friends,

My name is Rafael Lakshman, and I am honored to share my Bar Mitzvah project with you. My journey is inspired by my grandmother, Rivka, who narrowly escaped the Nazis while fleeing her hometown of Rezina, near Soroka, Moldova. My name, Rafael, means “God is the healer,” and for my Bar Mitzvah project, I wanted to support a place that dedicates itself to healing.

When I discovered that there is a hospital in Israel called Soroka Medical Center, it felt like fate—a name that connects me to my grandmother’s story, and a mission that aligns with my deepest hopes: to help heal those in need. I chose Soroka because of its commitment to caring for patients of all backgrounds and in all situations.

In supporting Soroka, we have the chance to give to a place that serves Holocaust survivors, like my grandmother; to the Oncology Center, which offers hope to cancer patients; and to the Innovation Center and the Emergency Response Fund, which have worked tirelessly to treat thousands of victims of the recent October 7th attack. These places of healing are where our contributions will have the greatest impact. Please join me in making a difference for Soroka Medical Center. With your support, we can help bring healing to those who need it most, honoring my grandmother’s legacy and the spirit of resilience that defines Soroka’s lifesaving mission.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Rafael Lakshman

American Friends of Soroka Medical Center is a NYS 501(c)(3) Not-for-profit Corporation 13-5866593