Omer Was Inspired to Change His Life

October 25, 2024

Omer S., 30 years old, married with one child, was serving as a reservist in the Givati Reconnaissance Unit. On Oct. 8 he and his unit were already operating in the Gaza border area near the site of the Nova party and Kibbutz Re’im.

Eventually, they entered Gaza as part of the ground forces. Omer was traveling in a convoy of Humvees when his overturned, crushing his left leg. Omer recalls trying to stand outside the Humvee, only to collapse due to significant blood loss from his leg. A fellow soldier in the vehicle was trapped underneath, suffering severe head, chest, and leg injuries. In a moment of quick thinking, another team member used a nearby Humvee to flip the overturned vehicle back onto its wheels, saving his trapped comrade’s life. The team immediately began administering medical care, applying tourniquets and performing life-saving measures.

After initially being hospitalized in Jerusalem, Omer was brought to Sheba Medical Center with a severe life-threatening infection in his leg. He underwent emergency surgery and experienced significant blood loss, but the medical team managed to save both his life and his leg. Omer describes the experience as unforgettable, with the hospital staff providing compassionate care, making frequent visits to check on him, and addressing his pain. He spent nearly two months in the orthopedic department, where he developed close friendships with the staff.

Following ten surgeries on his left leg, Omer transitioned to the “Returning to Life” rehabilitation center. Omer formed significant friendships with many of the staff members, including Daniel, a nurse from Department D, who has already made plans to visit Omer and his family for Shabbat dinners.

At “Returning to Life,” he felt enormous admiration for the commitment of the therapists, especially his own, Tiferet, who went above and beyond to help him and other patients. The therapists often worked during their breaks and even beyond their normal hours, determined to see Omer and others recover as quickly as possible.

This all inspired Omer to make a momentous decision – – he was going to return to school and become a physical therapist himself.

Sheba’s caregivers are so dedicated and passionate, they inspire patients to follow their path.

Am Yisrael Chai