From Cancer Patient to Innovation Pioneer: Gal Avital’s Inspirational Journey

November 21, 2024

Gal Avital’s journey from battling triple-negative breast cancer to creating transformative initiatives reflects her steadfast determination and resilience. Partnering with Sheba Medical Center, she has turned personal challenges into groundbreaking solutions that advance cancer research and empower survivors around the world.

Battling Cancer with Determination

Gal Avital, a two-time survivor of triple-negative breast cancer, turned her personal challenges into a mission of hope. After undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, mastectomy, and breast reconstruction, she found strength in transforming her experience into something impactful. Reflecting on her journey, Gal shares, “My way of coping with breast cancer is to grow from it and to create initiatives that will benefit others.”

Transforming Pain into Purpose

Following her initial diagnosis, Gal and her husband, Idan, co-founded Tech4Cancer, an innovative initiative in collaboration with Sheba Medical Center. By integrating high-tech creativity and expertise into cancer research, the initiative has driven significant advancements, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer—a particularly aggressive form of the disease. Gal emphasizes the importance of making research more efficient and effective, aiming to accelerate the development of life-saving treatments.

The impact of Tech4Cancer is evident in its collaboration with Sheba, which has resulted in groundbreaking research, including publications and intellectual property developments. Gal’s journey from patient to partner underscores the importance of merging personal passion with innovative solutions to combat cancer.

Spreading Hope and Innovation Globally

Gal’s commitment to creating meaningful change extends beyond research. Together with Idan, she launched Hagal Hayarok, an initiative focused on simplifying bureaucratic processes for cancer survivors, such as streamlining tax exemption applications and disability permits. Additionally, their Halas-Tech program supports young freelancers recovering from cancer by helping them develop digital marketing skills and rebuild their careers.

Looking to the future, Gal envisions a global impact. “We feel that it’s time to go global and help cancer research around the world become more efficient and effective by injecting high-tech creativity, technology, and mindset into the process,” she says. Her story highlights the profound impact of resilience and innovation, inspiring others to turn adversity into actionable change.

Published 11.21.2024, Sheba Global News