Tomer Was Inspired to Live Near Sheba

November 1, 2024

Tomer A. was born in Jerusalem but moved to Kibbutz Hanaton at the age of six.

Before his military service, Tomer spent a year volunteering with the Noam Youth Movement, a program dedicated to education and community service, which prepares young Israelis for social leadership. This experience shaped him in unexpected ways, instilling values of resilience and commitment to his community.

He later joined the 50th Battalion of the Nahal Brigade, where at the age of 22 his life took a sharp turn on December 24.

During an operation in Gaza, Tomer and his unit were advancing when four terrorists emerged from a tunnel firing automatic weapons, throwing grenades, and launching an RPG at them. In the intense firefight, Tomer was struck by a bullet near his hip, which fractured his femur. Tragically, his friend and fellow soldier, Rani Tamir, lost his life in the ambush, while another soldier was severely injured.

Following the incident, Tomer was evacuated to Sheba Medical Center, where he spent nearly two months in rehabilitation. Though unexpected, he says that this time at Sheba became one of the most meaningful experiences of his life since the war.

The dedicated care and unwavering support of the rehabilitation team and the “Returning to Life” department created an environment where healing went beyond the physical. Tomer found himself surrounded by others who shared his journey, and together, they formed bonds that gave them strength through their shared challenges.

Since completing his initial rehabilitation, Tomer and a few of his fellow recovering soldiers made the decision to continue living near Sheba. The closeness allows them to support one another as they undergo continued treatments.

Inspired by the incredible volunteers and staff at Sheba, Tomer and his friends have decided to give back. Soon, they will start volunteering with at-risk youth, believing that even if they can no longer fight on the front lines, they can still contribute to Israeli society in a meaningful way.