Those of us who love Israel await the release of all 87 hostages abducted by a terrorist group whose very name means “violence” in Hebrew, only 53 of whom are reported alive. Those released have told of enduring unfathomable cruelties. And yet hateful, antisemitic rhetoric rises globally like a poisonous tide: unreasoning, sadistic, relentless. What can be done? 

 

On the day of the October 7th massacre, the ER staff of Barzilai Hospital- which lies a mere 12 kilometers from Gaza- woke to the sickening wail of sirens and prepared to receive mass casualties and wounded civilians. They performed their duties courageously while under rocket fire from Gaza. Terrorist rockets struck the hospital 4 times that day, while staff struggled feverishly to treat hundreds of wounded. At the time, it was common knowledge that the Barzilai hospital staff were accustomed to graciously receiving 10-15 Gazan referred inpatients daily. Now, they treat even more while also caring for Israeli civilians and soldiers.

 

The complex nature of the suffering of all those affected by October 7th and its aftermath remains profound. There aren’t many people alive who have endured this level of brutality, neglect, or terror. Military heroes, hostages, families, and survivors of the massacre need ongoing professional attention to treat their wounds, external and internal. 

 

As Purim approaches, we at Jacob’s Refuge recall the courage of Esther, of Mordechai, under the same unreasoning, sadistic, relentless threat of those gripped by hatred. Once again, we kick off a campaign to raise funds for Barzilai Hospital. Over the next six weeks, we will raise funds to help sustain this oasis of medical courage, hope, and mercy, bravely teetering on the edge of a war-torn nation. As the enemies of Israel surround her once again, please help us channel much-needed funding to this vital effort.

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You can be the difference. One single act of kindness will touch a life in need. Let that kindness be a generous donation to help Jacob's Refuge support the Barzilai Hospital. Click the link below to donate today.