October 2024 Newsletter
In this issue
A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
October 7, 2023, is a date forever etched into the collective memory of the Jewish community and all who support the people and the nation of Israel. As we recently marked the first anniversary, I found myself reflecting on the past year and the profound changes it has brought. This year's commemoration held even deeper significance, as it fell between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur—the holiest days of the Jewish calendar. It was a time when reflection on our past and our future felt especially poignant.
In the wake of the horrific events of that day, and amid a troubling rise in global antisemitism, I have been asking myself: How do we move forward? How do we respond to the challenges that have emerged over the last year?
At a recent conference, a speaker shared something that truly resonated with me. He said, "We must do what we have always done: come together as a people." In times of hardship and uncertainty, we are reminded of the strength that comes from unity, from standing together and supporting one another. This is not just a call for resilience, but a call for action. Now, more than ever, we need to work collectively to bring healing and hope to our communities.
One concrete way to channel this unity into action is by participating in the Wheels of Love bike ride. Whether you choose to ride in person, organize a local event with friends, or participate virtually—through cycling, walking, or fundraising—you are contributing to a cause that uplifts others. This ride supports the important work of ALYN Hospital, a place dedicated to helping children with physical disabilities live fuller lives.
In the face of the grief, fear, and challenges we have endured, there is a powerful opportunity to come together and make a difference. Through acts of kindness, generosity, and solidarity, we can help heal the wounds caused by events like October 7 and combat the rise of antisemitism around the world. Each small action contributes to a larger movement toward good.
As we enter this new year, my hope is that it will be one of health, happiness, and peace for all of us. Together, we can foster a world where unity and compassion overcome hatred and division.
Am Yisrael Chai.
May this year bring us closer to peace.
SARAH’S AMAZING SUCCESS!
When Sarah arrived at ALYN Hospital, she couldn’t walk and couldn’t breathe on her own. Within a year, she is not only walking and breathing independently at time, but she also just started kindergarten back home! Her success is so miraculous that Ynet News published an article about Sarah’s success on September 16, 2024. Below is the full text of the article. (To see the original article in Ynet News: The Story of a 4-Year-Old’s Triumph Over Brain Cancer).
WHEELS OF LOVE ROOFTOP EVENT
On September 22, Aviva Lavi, Israeli Wheels of Love cyclist and strong support of ALYN Hospital, presented at a rooftop gathering to promote Wheels of Love, share some updates from Israel and ALYN and identify the role each of us can play in empowering the hospital to continue moving forward, despite current challenges.
WHEELS OF LOVE ’24: BECOME A VIRTUAL RIDER!
The Wheels of Love bike ride in Israel is scheduled for November 11-14 in Israel. This year, the ride is dedicated in memory of Yakir Hexter z”l, a Wheels of Love cyclist who was killed in action fighting in Gaza. We recognize that not everyone who wants to support the hospital can go to Israel, especially this year.
READ MORE
REGISTERIf you still want to participate, we have two ways you can make a difference from home:
- Become a virtual rider. You determine what you want to do to support the hospital—bike, run, walk, etc.—and communicate this to your donors.
- Participate in a community ride. You can lead or join friends in your community on a ride. You determine the date and routes, as well as all snacks along the way.
There is no registration fee or fundraising minimum, and every participant gets a 2024 Wheels of Love custom jersey! In both options, the American Friends of ALYN Hospital office will support you with sample donor letters and other fundraising material. If you meet the current fundraising levels, you will be eligible for additional swag.
Let’s show our strength as a community and our shared commitment to the children of ALYN Hospital and let’s ride together this year – even if we are not all in Israel!
!חג סוכות שמח
Wishing you a joyous Sukkot!
From, The AFAH Board and Staff