The archery team trained with the archers of ALYN Hospital

April 2026 Newsletter

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:56:55 GMT

In this issue

Each year, as we move through the days of the Omer—that sacred stretch of time between the liberation of Passover and the revelation of Shavuot—I find myself reflecting on what it truly means to be free. The Israelites wandered through the desert not simply to reach a destination, but to be transformed. To become a people capable of receiving the Torah. To learn, in the most profound way, what it means to care for one another.

READ MORE

HELP US GROW

One of the best ways to grow support for ALYN is by introducing our mission to new people in different settings. That can mean hosting a small parlor gathering to invite friends to learn more about the hospital’s work or finding creative ways to share ALYN’s impact within your own community. These more personal introductions can go a long way in helping new people connect to ALYN’s mission and understand the life-changing care the hospital provides to children with physical disabilities.

MAKING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Join us in strengthening the community while supporting American Friends of ALYN Hospital with events that educate, inspire, and draw people closer to a vital cause. We aim to expand this impact with innovative ideas and collaborations, nurturing a dedicated community that supports ALYN Hospital’s children and families every day.

WHEELS OF LOVE '26: Information Zoom Session

Are you curious about Wheels of Love or eager to help introduce this remarkable ride and the incredible work of ALYN Hospital? Join us for an enlightening and informative session on April 19th at noon ET, 11 AM CT, and 9 AM PT via Zoom. Whether you're new to Wheels of Love or a veteran rider, this is your opportunity to hear from ALYN Hospital representatives. This is also an opportunity to hear about the incredible work the hospital leadership and staff have been doing to continue providing the necessary services even amid the war.

To register, email Alex Bauman at alex@alynus.org , and you will receive the details directly.

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

Are you looking for another way to donate? Mailing a check is not always the most convenient option. Luckily, there are other to donate ALYN Hospital.

Every dollar counts, no matter what method you use to donate. If you are looking for a new way, consider using a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF), or enhance your contribution with a matching gift from your employer.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

For those who don’t know, a WhatsApp community is a group that contains several smaller group chats. Our WhatsApp community includes a general announcements group with updates and a monthly newsletter.

Making Community Connections

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:18:56 GMT

Join us in strengthening the community support of American Friends of ALYN Hospital.

Over the past months, we’ve been fortunate to unite our community through a variety of thoughtfully curated events—from our Wine Over Mind mentalist evening with Lev, to our challah braiding gathering, Barry’s Bootcamp with Empowered2Sweat, our Parlour meeting in Miami, Shabbat dinners with Kibbutz NYC, a Valentines Day Happy hour with Chai Life, and our mixology night with Kesher Connect. We’ve also hosted creative experiences like our paint-and-sip event and a hands-on initiative where we made paintings for the children at the hospital. While each event looked different on the surface, they all shared the same foundation: creating spaces where people can connect, give back, and feel part of something meaningful. What stood out most was not just the turnout, but the way people showed up—with intention, generosity, and a genuine desire to be part of a collective impact.

At the core of everything we do is a commitment to strengthening community while raising meaningful awareness for American Friends of ALYN Hospital and the children it serves. These events are not just moments of connection—they are opportunities to educate, to inspire, and to bring people closer to a cause that depends on consistent support and visibility. By creating spaces where people can engage, give back, and learn, we are building a community that is not only connected to one another, but also deeply invested in making a tangible difference. Looking ahead, we hope to continue expanding this impact through new ideas, thoughtful collaborations, and creative programming that amplify awareness while deepening engagement. These experiences can happen anywhere because they are rooted in people and purpose, not place.

Our goal is to strengthen the community while supporting American Friends of ALYN Hospital. These events educate, inspire, and draw people closer to a vital cause. We aim to expand this impact with innovative ideas and collaborations, nurturing a dedicated community that supports ALYN Hospital’s children and families every day.

More than a Destination

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:10:17 GMT

A Message from the Executive Director

It is in that spirit that I think about ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem—and why I believe, with all my heart, that it is a holy place.

ALYN stands as a shining example of what it means to live by some of the highest Jewish values—compassion, inclusion, and unwavering commitment to helping others. At ALYN, staff, volunteers, patients, and their families—people of every background and faith—come together, united by a shared mission: to provide exceptional care and support to children with complex physical challenges. No matter what a child’s background, if they need ALYN’s services, they receive them—without hesitation.

These past few years have tested the people of Israel in ways that are difficult to put into words. The trauma of the ongoing conflict, the fear and grief that have touched nearly every family—in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world—have reminded us how fragile life can be, and how essential it is to hold onto what matters most. Many of us have friends and relatives in Israel who have lived through this pain directly. We think of them constantly.

And yet, through it all, ALYN has never stopped. Every single day—through sirens, through uncertainty, through sorrow—the doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff have shown up for their patients. The children in their care could not wait, and ALYN did not make them wait. That kind of dedication, sustained in the face of everything the past two years have brought, is nothing short of heroic.

At American Friends of ALYN Hospital, our mission is to raise awareness and support for this vital institution. The need has never been greater—and neither has the opportunity to make a difference.

Together, we can continue to create lasting change—for the children at ALYN, for the people of Israel, and for the world.

Help Us Grow

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 20:49:45 GMT

There are many meaningful ways to support American Friends of ALYN Hospital, whether you want to get involved close to home or take part in something bigger abroad.

For those looking to fundraise through fitness, there are great opportunities both locally and internationally. If you are planning to run the TCS New York City Marathon and are not already committed to another charity, you can fundraise for American Friends of ALYN Hospital and turn your training into support for ALYN’s patients and programs.

For supporters interested in traveling abroad, Wheels of Love and Heels of Love offer especially meaningful ways to get involved. Wheels of Love, ALYN’s flagship international bike ride, brings participants together in Israel each November for an unforgettable experience that combines fundraising, community, and direct connection to the hospital’s mission. If you are curious about joining this year’s ride, we will be holding an information Zoom this Sunday, and riders can begin preparing now for the event in November.

However you choose to get involved —by opening your home, sharing ALYN with new audiences, fundraising through a marathon, or joining us in Israel for Wheels of Love or Heels of Love—you can play an important role in expanding ALYN’s reach and impact.

March 2026 Newsletter

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:16:14 GMT

In this issue

FROM BONDAGE TO FREEDOM

STAND STRONG FOR ISRAEL'S MOST VULNERABLE

ARCHERS TRAINING WITH ALYN HOSPITAL

WHEELS OF LOVE '26

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

 FROM BONDAGE TO FREEDOM

As Passover approaches, we are invited to imagine ourselves experiencing the Exodus. This journey parallels the story of children at ALYN Hospital, Israel's only pediatric rehabilitation center, who face complex physical challenges. These children, transformed through treatment, take significant steps towards independence, such as breathing without machines or speaking after silence. American Friends of ALYN Hospital bridges the gap by funding vital therapies and equipment through donations, enabling these miracles. As you celebrate Passover, may you find joy in knowing your support aids children in their journey toward freedom.

READ MORE

STAND STRONG FOR ISRAEL'S MOST VULNERABLE

ALYN Hospital remains committed to delivering care despite war and destruction. A video narrated by Dr. Maurit Beeri showcases the hospital's swift response to an emergency, where staff coordinated to safely transfer ventilated children to a protected area, funded by generous donors.

Rehabilitation continues even during crises, with children actively participating in their recovery. Your support is crucial for protecting and empowering Israel's vulnerable children during these challenging times.

ARCHERS TRAINING WITH ALYN HOSPITAL

The Israeli archery team arrived at the "ALYN" Children and Youth Rehabilitation Hospital in Jerusalem and held a joint training session with the archery group of children treated there. Among the team's athletes were the new European champion in the mixed doubles competition, Michaela Moshe (Maccabi Tel Aviv), the 2024 European champion and Israeli record holder, Shamai Yamarom (Maccabi Archers First), and archer Yehuda Cohen (Maccabi Archers Jerusalem).

WHEELS OF LOVE '26: Information Zoom Session

To register, email Alex Bauman at alex@alynus.org , and you will receive the details directly.

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

Are you looking for another way to donate? Mailing checks are not always be the most convenient option. Luckily, there are other to donate ALYN Hospital.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

Stand Strong for Israel's Most Vulnerable

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 18:13:03 GMT

In times of emergency, ALYN’s children need you more than ever. Stand with them.

In the wake of war and destruction, ALYN Hospital remains steadfast in its mission to deliver care with professionalism and unwavering dedication.

We encourage you to watch this video from ALYN, narrated by Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital, capturing the early morning hours of this past Saturday — moments that demanded swift coordination, decisive leadership, and extraordinary commitment. Within a very short time, our medical and logistics teams mobilized to safely transfer ventilated children to a specially designated protected area — a space made possible through the generosity of donors like you.

ALYN Hospital believes that optimal rehabilitation does not pause for quieter days. Even in times of emergency, children continue moving forward. They do not wait for a better world — they are active partners in creating it. Every milestone, every breath, is a small victory and a powerful reminder of the strength of hope.

Your support ensures that we can continue to protect, heal, and empower Israel’s most vulnerable children — even in times of crisis.

From Bondage to Freedom: The Children of ALYN Hospital

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 18:01:50 GMT

Each year as Passover approaches, we are called to do more than just retell the story of our Exodus from Egypt—we are expected to imagine that we, ourselves, are going through this experience. This journey is not only the story of our ancestors. It is a story being written right now, one painstaking step at a time, by the children of ALYN Hospital.

ALYN Hospital is Israel's only pediatric rehabilitation center — a place where children with the most complex physical challenges come to fight for their independence. These are children who have survived catastrophic injuries, debilitating illness, and conditions present since birth. They arrive at ALYN dependent. They leave transformed. For them, freedom is not a destination. It is a first step taken. A breath drawn without a machine. A word spoken after months of silence.

As American Friends of ALYN Hospital, we are the bridge that helps make these miracles possible. Donations made right here in the United States directly fund the life-changing treatments, advanced therapies, and innovative equipment that give these children a fighting chance. With your support, a child can receive a ventilator to breathe, begin to speak after traumatic brain injury, or take their first independent steps after years in a wheelchair.

As you celebrate with the people you love this Passover, may you be blessed with joy, good health, and the deep satisfaction of knowing that your kindness has helped a child in their journey towards freedom.

Freedom is Not a Destination

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:54:32 GMT

April 2026

Each year, as Passover approaches, we are invited to do more than retell an ancient story—we are called to live its deepest truth. The journey from bondage to freedom is not only the story of our ancestors. It is the story being written right now, one painstaking step at a time, by the children of ALYN Hospital.

ALYN Hospital is Israel’s only pediatric rehabilitation center—a place where children with the most complex physical challenges come to fight for their independence. These are children who have survived catastrophic injuries, debilitating illness, and conditions present since birth. They arrive at ALYN dependent. They leave transformed. For them, freedom is not a destination. It is the first step taken. A breath drawn without a machine. A word spoken after months of silence.

As American Friends of ALYN Hospital, we are the bridge that makes these miracles possible. Your gift—made right here in the United States—directly funds the life-changing treatments, advanced therapies, and innovative equipment that give these children a fighting chance. With your support, a child can receive a ventilator to breathe, and begin to speak after a traumatic brain injury, or take their first independent steps after years in a wheelchair.

Contributions to American Friends of ALYN Hospital are fully deductible to the extent permitted by U.S. law. As we celebrate Passover (and think about our finances this tax season), we want to highlight some smarter ways to support the children at ALYN Hospital: By donating appreciated stock, giving from your IRA, or recommending a Donor-Advised Fund grant, you can make a big difference and unlock valuable tax benefits.

With gratitude and hope,

Joanne Blye

President

Adam Schwartz

Executive Director

Together, you made a significant difference for the children at ALYN Hospital in 2025

3,553 Children Treated
3,615 Family Support Sessions
432 Medical Equipment Items
315 Remote Therapy Session
90,275 Medical & Therapy Sessions
17 ALYNnovation Start-up Collaborations
208 PELE Solutions for Independence
19 PARC Research Center Publications & Conferences

“The moment they called him by his name and truly saw him, I knew we were in the right place.”

Anat, Mother of Asif

The archery team trained with the archers of ALYN Hospital

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:19:10 GMT

Michaela Moshe and Shemai Yamarom arrived at the medical institution specializing in the rehabilitation of children and youth.

The Israeli archery team arrived at the "ALYN" Children and Youth Rehabilitation Hospital in Jerusalem, and held a joint training session with the archery group of children treated at the veteran medical institution. Among the team's athletes were the new European champion in the mixed doubles competition, Michaela Moshe (Maccabi Tel Aviv), the 2024 European champion and Israeli record holder, Shamai Yamarom (Maccabi Archers First), and archer Yehuda Cohen (Maccabi Archers Jerusalem).

The connection between Alin and the archery team happened naturally. The hospital, which is considered the only one in the country specializing in the rehabilitation of children and youth, established an archery group several years ago, due to the fact that archery is considered a therapeutic sport recommended as a rehabilitation activity. In fact, archery allows children to see themselves not only as patients, but as active participants in the process of growth and development. The children treated at the hospital met the team representatives, and for several hours enjoyed a welcome and empowering leisure activity. The archery group at the hospital is a project jointly led by archery instructor Eliyahu Berlowitz-Levin and physiotherapist Amichai Gutman.

Dr. Maurit Beeri , CEO of Alyn Hospital: "Archery is an innovative and unique addition that integrates into rehabilitation activities at Alyn because it does not require walking or running abilities, and combines strengthening back muscles, hand-eye coordination, concentration on a goal, and age-appropriate social activity. As such, it joins a host of activities that encourage children's motivation to improve as part of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation process."

Amit Shiner-Dandkar , Chairman of the Archery Association: "Archery can be adapted to any person and any physical limitation, and beyond its physical-motor benefits, it has a special empowering power. We were happy to come with the archers of the Israeli national team for a joint training session with the archery team that trains at the hospital, believing that the meeting would be meaningful for both the young archers at Alyn and the archers of the national team, and it was exciting and heart-warming to see the connection between them."

About Alyn Hospital: Alyn Hospital treats children with complex physical problems that affect their development, including children who have been injured in accidents, survived serious illnesses, are dealing with birth defects, are recovering from advanced orthopedic surgeries, and more. Alyn has full hospitalization departments, day hospitalization, multi-team clinics, a therapeutic sports system, and more. Alyn has an innovation center that operates a system of solutions that are individually manufactured for children, as well as the ALYNnovation project that works with startup companies and international organizations leading to significant breakthroughs in the world of child rehabilitation.

February 2026 Newsletter

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:23:32 GMT

In this issue

THE SEASON OF TRANSFORMATION

PURIM AT ALYN

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

YOUR VISIT TO ALYN

HEELS OF LOVE '26

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

THE SEASON OF TRANSFORMATION

We are currently in a unique time between Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees, and Purim, a celebration of resilience and joy. Tu B’Shvat symbolizes the quiet beginning of renewal, paralleling the small yet significant milestones achieved by children at ALYN, thanks to medical care and family support. Purim teaches us about transformation and overcoming challenges, much like the inspiring progress seen in ALYN’s children. This season encourages us to nurture unseen potential and celebrate communal achievements through events like Heels of Love and Wheels of Love, which embody the spirit of giving and growth. As we move forward, let’s strengthen our connection to ALYN’s mission, appreciating the wonders being created in Jerusalem, one child at a time.

READ MORE

PURIM AT ALYN

At ALYN Hospital, Purim isn't just another holiday. It's an experience — with the focus where it matters most: the children. From the moment families arrive, the halls are filled with laughter, music, and creative costumes, making every corner feel like a celebration.

The delicious treats are shared throughout the day, and families and staff gather for moments of light-hearted fun that help brighten the routine of rehabilitation with the warmth of the holiday spirit.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

As we look ahead, ensuring long-term support for ALYN means investing in younger leaders today. Through our Young Professionals initiative, AFAH is building a vibrant network dedicated to raising awareness, fostering community, and sustaining ALYN’s mission for generations to come. This has become a national movement with events held in Boston, NYC, LA, Chicago, and Austin.

VISITING ISRAEL?

Make your time in Israel even more meaningful with a visit to ALYN Hospital. Whether you’re in town to see family, spend time with friends, or explore on vacation, stopping by ALYN is an easy and impactful addition to your plans. Visits can be scheduled almost any day of the week year-round. The more notice we have, the more we will be able to tailor the experience to fit your interests and schedule.

Come see the energy, innovation, and heart behind Israel’s leading pediatric rehabilitation center, and witness firsthand the life-changing work happening every day.

Contact Davida at davida@alynus.org today to coordinate your ALYN Hospital visit.

HEELS OF LOVE '26

The 8th annual ALYN Heels of Love trek is set for March 10–12, 2026 —a three-day hiking and camping adventure supporting the children of ALYN Hospital. This year’s route leads us through the extraordinary Timna Park region , with its dramatic cliffs, hidden canyons, and unforgettable desert skies.

It will be an adventure you will remember for years to come. The breathtaking views, knowledgeable tour guides, and engaging discussions with fellow hikers create a sense of unity around a cause that resonates deeply with all of us — ALYN Hospital. Join us for an experience that challenges, inspires, and makes a real impact.

If you would like to know more, call (212)869-8085, or email davida@alynus.org

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

Are you looking for another way to donate? Mailing checks are not always be the most convenient option. Luckily, there are other to donate ALYN Hospital.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

Young Professionals

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:28:11 GMT

We recently hosted a Valentine’s Day–themed cocktail hour in Boston in partnership with Chai Life Boston, bringing together over 180 young Jewish professionals for a fun night of drinks.

Our most recent event was Mind Over Wine in NYC , partnering with Moishe House UES and House of Lev, featuring mentalist Michael Samen. It’s shaping up to be an exciting night—good wine, great company, and a performance that’s all about surprises. conversation and plenty of bourekas and babka.

Behind the scenes, we’ve also held a few meetings of our Young Professionals Committee as we work to expand the program and plan new ways for people to connect through future events and partnerships. We are always looking for people to join the committee. If you know anyone who may be interested, please reach out to Alex at

alex@alynus.org .

We’re looking forward to continuing the momentum with more events in the months ahead.

The Season of Transformation

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:16:29 GMT

There is something extraordinary about the stretch of time we find ourselves in right now. We stand between two of the most spirited holidays on the Jewish calendar—Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees, and Purim, a celebration of resilience and joy.

Tu B’Shvat reminds us that renewal begins quietly, beneath the surface, long before the world can see it. A tree draws on its deepest roots, reaches toward the light, and, in time, blossoms in ways that astonish us. I think of the children at ALYN when I reflect on this. Every small milestone—a child gripping a cup independently, a teenager regaining movement in a limb, an infant finding their voice—these are the blossoms of months of invisible, determined work. They grow from roots of extraordinary medical care, devoted therapists, and the fierce love of families who refuse to give up.

And then there is Purim. Purim is a holiday that teaches us that transformation is possible—that circumstances can change, that darkness can give way to light, and that even in the face of overwhelming odds, joy can prevail. The children and families who come to ALYN know this truth. They arrive facing challenges that might seem insurmountable, and yet time and again, we witness the most remarkable reversals: the child who was told she might never walk—walking; the young boy who couldn’t swallow—eating a meal at the family table; the teenager who had withdrawn from the world—laughing with peers in our recreation program.

These are not just medical achievements. They are miracles playing out in real time.

At AFAH, this season fills us with a sense of urgency and possibility. Just as Tu B’Shvat calls us to tend to the trees—to nurture what cannot yet be seen—our support of ALYN is an act of planting seeds for children whose full flourishing is still ahead. And just as Purim calls us to celebrate together, to give gifts, to share in one another’s joy, our community’s generosity is never more meaningful than when it comes with a spirit of connection and celebration.

This is why programs like Heels of Love and Wheels of Love are so powerful. They are not simply fundraisers—they are gatherings of people who understand that supporting ALYN is a joyful act, a communal act, a life-affirming act. When we come together, we are doing exactly what this season asks of us: nurturing growth, celebrating resilience, and bringing our best selves to the work of changing children’s lives.

In the weeks ahead, I hope you will look for opportunities to deepen your connection to ALYN’s mission—whether by participating in an upcoming AFAH event, sharing our story with someone new, or simply pausing to appreciate the miracle of what is being built in Jerusalem, one child at a time.

Purim at ALYN

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:05:07 GMT

Kids and siblings donned vibrant masks and playful outfits, bringing playful energy to the hospital spaces. ALYN’s incredible team made sure that every child had a chance to take part in interactive Purim activities — from glittering art stations where they decorated groggers and crowns, to festive Purim décor that transforms the hospital into a world of color and imagination.

Sweet holiday snacks are made special by the kids using the newly upgraded therapeutic kitchen with adjustable tables, sink, smart tech appliances, and wheelchair-friendly spaces. The delicious treats are shared throughout the day, and families and staff gather for moments of light-hearted fun that help brighten the routine of rehabilitation with the warmth of the holiday spirit.

At ALYN, staff and families continuously come together to transform the day, year after year, into something truly special — a chance to create memories, share happiness, and make every child feel seen, cherished, and part of something in their journey towards independence.

January 2026 Newsletter

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 21:56:18 GMT

In this issue

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER

NEW ROOMS

YOUR VISIT TO ALYN

HEELS OF LOVE '26

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

NEW BEGINNINGS THAT DON'T FADE

By this point in January, most of us have already let go of at least a few New Year’s resolutions. Life gets busy, routines return, and good intentions often fall by the wayside.

But at ALYN Hospital, there is no giving up.

While many resolutions fade, ALYN’s commitment to its patients never does. Every day, children and families come through our doors facing extraordinary challenges—and every day, our dedicated doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff meet them with unwavering determination, compassion, and expertise.

READ MORE

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
THROUGH COMMUNITY

Over the past few months, our events have created space for people to connect—through movement, learning, and shared experiences—while getting to know the work of American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH).

We kicked things off with Barry’s Bootcamp class in Chelsea with Barry's , Empowered2Sweat, Moishe House, and Jukebox. These high-energy events brought together people from different circles and sparked new connections around a shared goal.

NEW ROOMS

ALYN has introduced two new learning spaces for children and teens to learn, create, and connect during rehabilitation. These rooms support holistic healing with therapeutic toys and activities that encourage play. A standout feature is the ceiling-mounted projection system, transforming therapy into engaging play through interactive games that promote movement.

Supported by SASA Setton and other partners, these spaces highlight the positive impact of thoughtful initiatives. They are places where children can discover their abilities and celebrate progress.

VISITING ISRAEL?

Come see the energy, innovation, and heart behind Israel’s leading pediatric rehabilitation center, and witness firsthand the life-changing work happening every day.

Contact Davida at davida@alynus.org today to coordinate your ALYN Hospital visit.

HEELS OF LOVE '26

If you would like to know more, call (212)869-8085, or email davida@alynus.org

MORE WAYS TO GIVE

Are you looking for another way to donate? Mailing checks are not always be the most convenient option. Luckily, there are other to donate ALYN Hospital.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

New Beginnings That Don’t Fade

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:28:55 GMT

By this point in January, most of us have already let go of at least a few New Year’s resolutions. Life gets busy, routines return, and good intentions often fall by the wayside.

But at ALYN Hospital, there is no giving up.

At ALYN, new beginnings take a different form. They look like a child learning to eat independently for the first time. They look like a young patient taking steps once thought impossible. They look like families finding hope and direction after months—or even years—of uncertainty. We are committed to empowering every patient we serve and helping them build a better future.

And we are never standing still. ALYN is a leader in pediatric rehabilitation research, continually developing and implementing new therapies and technologies to ensure our patients receive the most innovative and effective care possible. Growth, learning, and progress are not resolutions for us —they are our daily reality.

This year, AFAH is also committed to creating more ways for our community to come together to learn about ALYN and the incredible work being done in Jerusalem. Throughout the coming months, we will be offering new opportunities for people to connect under the AFAH banner—many of which are highlighted in this month’s newsletter.

And, of course, two of the most powerful ways to support ALYN remain Heels of Love and Wheels of Love . These extraordinary programs not only raise critical funds for the hospital, but also bring people together in meaningful, inspiring ways to be part of the ALYN story.

I hope you share in the pride I feel for the miracles happening every day at ALYN Hospital. Together, we are creating new beginnings that do not fade—and that truly transform lives.

New Rooms

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:05:07 GMT

New Learning Spaces Spark Joy, Movement, and Connection at ALYN

Two new, innovative learning spaces have recently been unveiled at ALYN Rehabilitation Hospital , creating joyful environments where children and teens can learn, create, and connect while continuing their rehabilitation journeys.

Designed with care, creativity, and intention, these multipurpose activity rooms reflect ALYN’s commitment to treating the whole child—not only through clinical therapy but also through play, exploration, and meaningful engagement. Filled with therapeutic toys, games, and hands-on activities, the spaces invite children to move, imagine, and interact in ways that feel natural and fun.

One of the most exciting features is a ceiling-mounted projection system that brings interactive games directly onto the floor. These games encourage children to stand, walk, crawl, jump, and explore movement at their own pace—turning therapy into an experience that feels more like play. Through this innovative technology, mobility, coordination, and confidence are strengthened in an environment filled with laughter and encouragement.

These new spaces were made possible thanks to the support of SASA Setton and generous contributions from partners who believe deeply in ALYN’s mission. Their support is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that thoughtful initiatives can have on young lives.

At ALYN, every detail matters. These new learning spaces are more than rooms—they are places where children discover what they can do, build independence, and experience the joy of progress, one step, jump, or game at a time.

Bringing People Together Through Community Events

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:05:47 GMT

We kicked things off with a Barry’s Bootcamp class in Chelsea with Barry's , Empowered2Sweat, Moishe House, and Jukebox. These high-energy events brought together people from different circles and sparked new connections around a shared goal.

Later in December, we gathered in Miami for a Challah Braid & Learn in Aventura—an evening filled with conversation, tradition, and learning—followed by a Pilates class in Miami Beach with Club Allenby that offered a more relaxed way to come together. Across all of these events, the focus stayed the same: building relationships and raising awareness for AFAH’s mission.

What’s Coming Up

Across each of these gatherings, what stood out most was the feeling in the room—people showing up not just for an event, but for the children at ALYN Hospital. New connections formed, conversations flowed, and communities rallied around AFAH’s mission in ways that felt genuinely meaningful. These moments reminded us that the true impact comes from shared purpose, collective care, and a community coming together to support children and families who need it most.

There’s more ahead in the coming months:

February 12 : Backgammon Night with Backgammon NYC at Tavern Hall
February 19 : Magic & Wine Night at Congregation Adereth El with Lev Chessed Group
March 5 : Mixology Event in Miami with Kesher Connect

We love building events that bring people together in different ways—and we’re always open to new ideas. If there’s something you’d like to attend, host, or help plan, we’d love to hear from you.

Hope to see you at an upcoming event!

Pedaling Through Pain

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 23:04:10 GMT

How a wounded reservist and a paralyzed teen found strength together

At 18, Mati Weiss rides a hand-powered bicycle after paralysis, while her coach Ohad Tanami carries the weight of war and loss together, they joined 300 cyclists and 17 rehabilitating children to complete a journey halted by war two years ago.

Thirty kilometers in, on a cold night, in open terrain near Modi’in, a flat tire brings everything to a halt. Mati Weiss, 18, sits on her bicycle reading a book, waiting patiently as her coach, Ohad Tanami, fixes the punctured wheel.

As he works, Ohad finds himself thinking of a sentence his battalion commander, Nati Alkobi, used to repeat: “Do the very best, and then a little more, and we will have a different country.”

Nati was killed in combat in Khan Younis, four days before the end of Ohad’s first reserve duty rotation in the war. The sentence stayed with him. It accompanied them not only throughout the 260 kilometers of the cycling journey completed by Mati, Ohad and the rest of the group, but throughout the emotional journey they have traveled since October 7. “After Nati was killed, I needed time for myself,” Ohad shares. “I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress. I lost close friends. I felt I couldn’t commit to a journey like the one we did the year before.”

After several months, he decided to return. For Mati. For himself. For Nati.

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December 2025 Newsletter

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:20:39 GMT

In this issue

AMRI GOES HOME

HEELS OF LOVE '26

NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR

MAKE YOUR END-OF-YEAR DONATION

As 2025 comes to an end, don't miss this opportunity to make an end-of-the-year donation.
Giving has never been easier.

Company matching gift programs encourage their employees to give generously to charity. This way, you can increase your donation through company giving.

Donate now to help us continue this vital work in 2025 and beyond—every contribution matters!

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) simplify donating to charities like ours. Click below to find your DAF, search for our name or EIN, and recommend a grant amount.

LOOKING BACK WITH PRIDE, LOOKING AHEAD WITH PURPOSE

As we approach the close of 2025 and look ahead to 2026, I find myself reflecting on just how much we have accomplished together—and feeling deeply grateful for the community that made it all possible.

This past year has been one of meaningful growth, connection, and impact for American Friends of ALYN Hospital. At the heart of it all has been our shared commitment to ensuring that the children of ALYN continue to receive the world-class, compassionate care they deserve.

AMRI GOES HOME

After months of rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital, Amri returned home to his family, strengthened by the collective efforts of a dedicated multidisciplinary team. Doctors, therapists, nurses, teachers, and support staff worked together to address every aspect of his recovery—movement, learning, confidence, and independence.

His parents’ letter offers a window into the extraordinary care that defines ALYN : a place where healing is never the work of one individual, but the result of coordinated expertise and compassion, made possible through the ongoing support of those who believe in ALYN’s mission.

HEELS OF LOVE '26

If you would like to know more, call (212)869-8085, or email davida@alynus.org

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

DIRECTOR'S NOTE

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:31:28 GMT

LOOKING BACK WITH PRIDE, LOOKING AHEAD WITH PURPOSE

One of the highlights of the year was, once again, our strong participation in the annual Wheels of Love Bike Ride in Israel. Wheels of Love is more than a ride—it is a powerful expression of solidarity, determination, and love for ALYN and its children. Seeing riders come together from around the world to support the hospital remains one of the most inspiring reminders of what this community can accomplish.

Throughout the year, we were also proud to engage nearly 1,500 young professionals, who came together at events across multiple cities and venues. These gatherings did more than build community—they strengthened the next generation of ALYN supporters and ambassadors, helping ensure a vibrant future for our mission.

We also took important steps toward expanding our grassroots engagement through the launch of local community events, beginning with our first Challah Bake in Aventura, Florida. This was an exciting milestone and a model we look forward to replicating in additional communities.

Equally meaningful were the many in-person meetings with donors around the country. There is no substitute for sitting together, listening, sharing stories, and expressing gratitude face-to-face. These conversations reinforce the partnership at the core of our work and remind us how personally invested so many of you are in ALYN’s success.

And behind the scenes, we were thrilled to launch our newly updated website, giving us a stronger platform to share ALYN’s story, highlight its extraordinary work, and connect more effectively with supporters everywhere.

As proud as we are of what we’ve accomplished, we are just as energized by what lies ahead.

In the coming year, we plan to increase the number of community-based events, continue reaching out to donors across the country, and find new and creative ways to share the incredible work being done every day at ALYN Hospital. We look forward to expanding our participation in both Heels of Love (March 10-12, 2026) and Wheels of Love (November 8–12, 2026), both of which are already generating excitement and momentum.

None of this—past or future—would be possible without you. Your generosity and belief in ALYN are the foundation upon which everything is built.

As we approach the end of the year, if you can contribute before year-end, please know that it would make a meaningful difference. Your support helps ensure that ALYN can continue to be there for every child and family who needs it—today and in the year ahead.

Thank you for all that you have helped us achieve, and for walking with us as we look forward to another year of impact, hope, and healing.

With deep gratitude,

Adam

Challah Bake with ALYN

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:33:12 GMT

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Heels of Love '26

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:23:44 GMT

Explore Israel in a New Way While Supporting ALYN Hospital

The 8th annual ALYN Heels of Love trek is set for March 10–12, 2026 —a three-day hiking and camping adventure supporting the children of ALYN Hospital. This year’s route will lead participants through one of Israel’s most breathtaking landscapes: the extraordinary Timna Park region , with its dramatic cliffs, hidden canyons, and unforgettable desert skies.

Join us for an experience that challenges, inspires, and makes a real impact.

There will be three groups of hikers:

Challenge : A group that covers up to 12-20 kilometers/8-12 miles a day with plenty of climbing.

Hike Plus : A shorter (but not easy) group that will hike about 10-12 kilometers/6.2 miles a day.

Scenic : A beautiful scenic walk of around to 10km/5-6 miles day.

The trip will take place between March 10-12. On the 12th, the hikes are a little shorter so we can arrive back in Jerusalem at a reasonable hour.

Fundraising minimum: $3,000, although we encourage you to raise more.

If you have questions, call (212)869-8085, or email davida@alynus.org

You can also check the website: alyn.org/hike

Amri Goes Home

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:42:59 GMT

A Letter That Moved Us Deeply ��

After a tragic road accident that nearly cost him his leg, Amri spent months in rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital before returning home to his friends and family—and along the way, his parents shared a message that stayed with us:

"In a magical city, between mountains and quiet neighborhoods, there is a place like no other. Anyone lucky enough to arrive here discovers something wondrous, a home filled with superheroes disguised as everyday heroes, angels in the form of nurses and caregivers, and musicians conducting the orchestra in the shapes of doctors and therapists.

Four months ago, we came here lost and hurting. Between long days and longer nights, within the walls of the ward, you lit a light for us, a light of gentleness, of patience, of boundless humanity. In a difficult time, you became our anchor, the steady hand that held us when our strength trembled, and the wide, wordless embrace that carried us forward.

You do not only heal wounds, you also restore faith. You do not only treat the body, you also touch the soul. Thank you for being the light in our healing journey, for turning pain into hope…"

November 2025 Newsletter

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:28:06 GMT

In this issue

WHEELS OF LOVE '25

GETTING ACTIVE WITH ALYN

MAKE YOUR END-OF-YEAR DONATION

Giving Thanks for the ALYN Community

It’s November, which for us at American Friends of ALYN Hospital always means two things. First, it’s time for the annual Wheels of Love Bike Ride in Israel—and what a ride it was this year. You can read more about it in my article later in this newsletter.

Second, November at AFAH is a month of gratitude. And in many ways, these two themes go hand in hand. Wheels of Love reminds us of the extraordinary community that rallies around ALYN Hospital each year, and November gives us a moment to pause and recognize just how fortunate we are to have supporters who ensure that ALYN’s critical work continues every single day. This life-changing care simply would not be possible without our thousands of dedicated donors. For that, I say—THANK YOU.

While at the hospital for the Wheels of Love closing ceremonies, I had the opportunity to visit several newly renovated areas and wanted to share a few wonderful updates.

The Day Center has been beautifully refreshed, and the renovated school is now open and thriving. For the first time, all the classrooms are located together in one central area, giving children the uplifting sense of truly “going to school,” rather than attending classes scattered throughout different parts of the hospital. It is already making a meaningful difference in their daily experience.

Another exciting part of the Day Center renovation is the updated music room, where children will receive music therapy—one of the many therapeutic modalities offered at ALYN to help each child overcome their unique challenges. A special note of thanks goes to our President, Joanne Blye, and her husband, Jeff, whose generous support made this renovation possible.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to once again express my deepest gratitude to each of our donors. Your generosity enables ALYN to continue its vital work, offering world-class rehabilitation and hope to children and families who need it most.

So, as you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, I invite you to take a moment to think of the children of ALYN—of their strength, their courage, and their remarkable progress. May their resilience be among the many blessings you count this year.

WHEELS OF LOVE '25

Wheels of Love 2025 is now “in the books,” and what an extraordinary ride it was. More than 320 participants from over 10 countries came together with a single purpose: to ride on behalf of the children of ALYN Hospital. Despite unusually high temperatures in northern Israel, the week was filled with camaraderie, beautiful landscapes, challenging routes, and a shared sense of mission. The hotel and food were outstanding, the atmosphere was warm, and—most importantly—our riders have already raised over $2.3 million to support ALYN Hospital, Israel’s premier pediatric and adolescent rehabilitation center.

GETTING ACTIVE WITH ALYN

As we approach Giving Tuesday, we’re launching #GetActiveWithALYN. Inspired by the innovative multi-disciplinary approaches used by ALYN Hospital, American Friends of ALYN Hospital is inviting you to get moving this month to showcase the variety of care, commitment, and support of the hospital, its staff, patients, and friends.

Post a photo of you doing your favorite activity, or gathering with friends and family, and upload it to social media with #GetActiveWithALYN, or send it our way through email, and we’ll create a special community college to showcase our community!

MAKE YOUR END-OF-YEAR DONATION

As 2025 comes to an end, don't miss this opportunity to make an end-of-the-year donation.
Giving has never been easier.

Company matching gift programs encourage their employees to give generously to charity. This way, you can increase your donation through company giving.

Donate now to help us continue this vital work in 2025 and beyond—every contribution matters!

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) simplify donating to charities like ours. Click below to find your DAF, search for our name or EIN, and recommend a grant amount.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

On a Mission from God

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 17:10:04 GMT

Article by Steven Stark Lowenstein in The Times of Israel

I remember the first time I ever heard the expression. It was 1980 and Elwood and Jake, after having a religious experience, said, “We are on a mission from God.” Like the Blues Brothers, I’ve been on that mission ever since. I thought about it all week long last week while riding my bicycle on Wheels of Love to raise funds for Alyn Hospital, a pediatric and adolescent rehabilitation center in Jerusalem.

I always think of angels when I read Vayera – more angels appear in this Parsha than any other. The Hebrew word for angel, malach, means “messenger.” In the Torah, angels are spiritual beings sent by God to perform a specific mission, often one task per angel. Who knew that angels don’t multitask?! Each angel acts as an intermediary for God’s will, whether it’s delivering good news, providing protection or healing, or executing judgment.

Read more

WHEELS OF LOVE '25

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:35:50 GMT

For someone who isn’t able to ride, it was deeply inspiring to witness the strength of this community. Time and again, riders spoke about not only supporting ALYN’s life-changing work, but also standing with the people of Israel—particularly those in the north who have faced two extremely difficult years of war and displacement. This commitment was especially evident during a special pre-ride solidarity day held on Sunday.

The day began at a bike shop in Kiryat Shemona that had been closed for two years due to the ongoing security situation. The shop’s owners—whose child had been treated at ALYN—shared their story with our group as the room overflowed with riders offering support. From there, the group traveled to Kibbutz Manara, which had also been evacuated. Riders met residents, listened to their experiences firsthand, and offered encouragement as these families prepared for the long process of rebuilding and returning home.

The following morning, the ride officially began. Each day brought stunning views, dramatic changes in elevation, and of course, the heat—but rider after rider spoke about how meaningful and uplifting the experience was. The challenges on the road seemed small compared to the purpose behind every mile ridden.

As always, the final day was a highlight. Riders concluded their journey at ALYN Hospital, where they were welcomed by clowns, music, hospital staff, patients, and their families. Children handed out medals with pride, and the smiles—everywhere, on every face—captured the joy and hope that define ALYN.

Among the most inspiring elements each year is a remarkable group known as “The Swift and the Bold”—children who were once patients at ALYN. Riding on tandem bikes, hand-powered bicycles, or sometimes on their own bikes, they embody resilience, bravery, and the transformative power of rehabilitation.

One of them is Maayan, a 14-year-old who represents the very heart of ALYN. At age 11, Maayan was diagnosed with a syndrome that caused her brain to send pain signals when nothing was physically wrong. Overnight, the active girl who loved to run and play suddenly couldn’t walk. After nearly a year of treatment elsewhere, she felt as though, in her words, “the world was moving on without me.”

Then Maayan came to ALYN. From her first day, she felt a shift. The doctors and therapists saw beyond her crutches—they saw her strength, determination, and the young person “who wanted her life back.” Through steady, step-by-step rehabilitation, Maayan regained her independence and, after a year, fully recovered.

When she first heard about The Swift and the Bold, Maayan hesitated. But when she describes riding again, her face lights up. She speaks about freedom—about what it feels like to move forward again. “ALYN believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself,” she shared. “Your support of ALYN allows children to laugh, to move, and to dream again. Thank you for giving me my life back.”

Her words capture what Wheels of Love is truly about: not just cycling, but restoring futures, rebuilding strength, and helping children reclaim their lives. We are grateful to every rider, supporter, volunteer, and friend who helped make this year’s ride such an unforgettable success.

GETTING ACTIVE WITH ALYN

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:28:08 GMT

This November, we are kicking off the month with community, movement, and more! November 3–6, you joined us in Israel at Wheels of Love and were able to see firsthand the incredible multi-disciplinary approaches ALYN Hospital uses to make each child’s state-of-the-art therapy fun, effective, and long-lasting, allowing them to ride with us through the mountains of Galilee and beyond!

Whether it be hydrotherapy on the rooftop pool, physical therapy and diagnosing using Virtual Reality, or mobility exercises in the hospital, each form of therapy is crafted by a team of experienced experts who prioritize reintegration and management of the patient and family needs inside and outside the hospital. And it all starts with getting active.

Now, it’s your turn.

As we approach Giving Tuesday, we’re launching #GetActiveWithALYN. Inspired by the innovative multidisciplinary approaches used by ALYN Hospital, American Friends of ALYN Hospital is inviting you to get moving this month to showcase the variety of care, commitment, and support of the hospital, its staff, patients, and friends.

Post a photo of you doing your favorite activity, or gathering with friends and family, and upload it to social media with #GetActiveWithALYN, or send it our way through email, and we’ll create a special community college to showcase our community!

Join us on Sunday, November 30th, for our run through Central Park to keep the movement going and build our community!

Can’t make it in person? Don’t sweat it — join us on our ALYN Strava Group on the Strava App, track your workout, and cheer on your fellow group members.

And because Giving Tuesday is ultimately fueling impact, you can take your participation one step further. Just like the multidisciplinary approaches used at the hospital, you can also support the children of ALYN by:

Making a personal donation to fund therapies, adaptive equipment, and family-centered care.
Starting a mini-fundraiser and inviting friends to contribute as you get active
Hosting your own activity or event in honor of ALYN’s patients

Every step you take — and every dollar you raise — directly supports ALYN’s life-changing rehabilitation programs.

The most active participant and the participant who raises the most will receive a limited-edition ALYN hat!

And it doesn’t stop here. December 4th at 6:55 pm, join us at Barry’s Bootcamp in Chelsea, where we will sweat, pedal, and stride in support of #GetActiveWithALYN.

For our friends in Florida, we will be hosting a challah-braiding event on December 18th at 7 pm, with special guest speaker Taly Gedaly at Beit David Synagogue, transforming the work of individual activity into community giving.

We will see you there!

October 2025 Newsletter

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 18:24:23 GMT

In this issue

DON'T MISS A THING

ACTIVITES FOR ALL AGES

CHALLAH BAKE

TOGETHER WE RIDE

As we move from the Jewish holidays into mid-October, our attention at American Friends of ALYN Hospital turns to Wheels of Love —the annual bike ride that raises vital support for ALYN Hospital.

The ride is a beautiful celebration of togetherness, bringing cyclists from around the world together in support of the children at ALYN. Last year's ride held special significance as we came together during the war in Gaza to show our solidarity with the people of Israel and the children at ALYN. This year, we'll have another meaningful opportunity to demonstrate our support by visiting northern communities where residents have been displaced, showing them that we stand with them.

A highlight of every ride is cycling alongside members of Swift and Bold, a team composed of current and former ALYN patients who ride tandem bicycles, handcycles, adapted bicycles, and standard bikes. Their participation powerfully demonstrates the incredible resilience and capabilities of these amazing children.

The ride also offers us a firsthand look at the hospital's work and the dedicated staff who provide hope and help children recognize their full potential.

We'll be sharing updates throughout this year's ride—follow us on Facebook , Instagram , or LinkedIn to join in the excitement.

Thank you for your interest and support that makes all of this possible.

DON'T MISS A THING

By following us on social media, you’ll get a front-row seat to their inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on how American Friends of ALYN supports these incredible children.

ACTIVITES FOR ALL AGES

At American Friends of ALYN Hospital, connection and creativity bring our community closer to the children and families who rely on ALYN—Israel’s only pediatric rehabilitation center. From painting to baking to hands-on crafts, every gathering becomes a bridge of care and support.

CHALLAH BAKE IN MIAMI

As we approach Chanukah, the festival of lights, we’re inviting the Miami community to join us for an evening that celebrates both tradition and giving. Our Challah Bake isn’t just about braiding dough—it’s about weaving together compassion, community, and hope.

 When & where: Thursday, December 18, 7:00 pm at Beit David Synagogue, 2600 NE 209th St., Miami, FL 33180

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

DON'T MISS A THING

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 18:23:23 GMT

Every day, children at ALYN push boundaries and take new steps toward independence.

By following us on social media, you’ll get a front-row seat to their inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on how American Friends of ALYN supports these incredible children.

We’re now on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn —and most recently, TikTok !

Our feeds offer more than just updates: you’ll see the dedication of ALYN’s therapists, get a glimpse inside our innovation space, PELE, and witness the amazing progress children achieve every day. You’ll also stay up to date on Wheels of Love, Heels of Love, our Young Professionals Program, and other events that help raise awareness for ALYN and AFAH.

When you follow, like, share, or comment, you’re helping spread awareness and grow our community of supporters.

Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and TikTok to see hope in action and help children reach their fullest potential.

ACTIVITES FOR ALL AGES

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 18:49:32 GMT

Activities for All Ages Bringing Us Closer to ALYN

Riverdale Bookmark Decorating: Thank You!

On September 7, families and friends in Riverdale came together for a fun bookmark-decorating pop-up—proof that small, creative moments can carry big meaning. Each bookmark became a message of encouragement for child at ALYN Hospital, reminding them that no matter where, what, or how, people across the world are cheering them on in their journey towards independence.

Paint & Sip Is Back

On October 9, friends and supporters of ALYN Hospital gathered for a lively Paint & Sip Night at our New York office. The evening offered a warm, creative space to unwind, connect, and give back. We provided the paints and canvas; guests brought their favorite drinks, creativity, and generosity. Together, participants created personalized paintings to brighten the days and hospital rooms of children undergoing rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital .

Miami Challah Bake: Bringing Light to ALYN’s Children

Each challah represents the light we can bring into the lives of ALYN’s children—children who, every day, show extraordinary strength and resilience as they work toward greater independence. By coming together as a community, we add our own

sparks of light to theirs. REGISTER NOW

When & where: Thursday, December 18, 7:00 pm at Beit David Synagogue, 2600 NE 209th St., Miami, FL 33180

All proceeds benefit American Friends of ALYN Hospital, supporting life-changing pediatric rehabilitation in Israel.

We invite everyone—families, friends, and new supporters—to take part in this warm and meaningful celebration. It’s a chance to gather before the lights of Chanukah, reflect on what it means to bring healing and joy, and send that light across the ocean to Jerusalem.

Activities for All Ages—How You Can Join In 

Whether you’re 8 or 80, there’s a place for you:

Paint & Sip gatherings – create artwork for ALYN’s children Paint and Sip.
Community bakes – challah that brings together community and compassion.
Creative pop-ups – host an event that inspires you and your community to give back.

Host Something in Your City

What activity would you like to do? A yoga class, trivia night, bake sale, mini-hike, or kids’ art circle—your idea can bring people together while supporting ALYN’s mission.

If you’d like to host or co-host an event in your city, email marcela@alynus.org . We’ll provide a simple toolkit with sample invites, timelines, and materials to help you make it happen.

Join us in building our family—one event, one idea, and one friend at a time.

Ishay Ribo performs at gala to support hospitalized children

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 21:02:55 GMT

Founded in memory of Gilat Eisenmann, a vibrant 11-year-old girl who passed away in 2008, the Gilat Foundation provides therapeutic live theater to children in hospitals.

Expanding its mission of hope and healing in Israel, the Gilat Foundation held its first annual gala at the ALYN Hospital rehabilitation center for children and adolescents on October 5 with an intimate evening performance by Ishay Ribo, whose inspirational music is a soundtrack of hope and healing to many.

Founded in memory of Gilat Eisenmann, a vibrant 11-year-old girl who passed away in 2008, the Gilat Foundation provides therapeutic live theater to children in hospitals in the Netherlands, Curaçao, and now Israel.

The organization’s first large-scale local fundraiser was created to educate the public about the critical role therapeutic theater plays in pediatric care, particularly during times of national trauma, and help expand the performances from four to eight hospitals in the country.

The elegant evening, produced by A to Z Events, brought together Gilat Foundation board members, donors, and newcomers to the organization, as well as Dutch Ambassador to Israel Marriet Schuurman.

“We believe theater is medicine no doctor can prescribe,” said Jair Eisenmann, Gilat’s father – the founder and chairman of the foundation. “What makes it magical is that children can forget pain, treatment, isolation, and even war for a few moments. We help them smile, which helps calm fear. For many children, a Gilat performance is the first time they’ve laughed in a long time.”

Ride for a cause: Support ALYN Hospital’s Wheels of Love this November

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 18:55:01 GMT

Article from Times of Israel

As I walk down the steps of the rolling hills of Jerusalem, I breathe in the fresh air, taking in my surroundings. There are children of all ages, laughing, running, rolling, swimming, gardening—filling the atmosphere with a sense of joy and strength you’d think belonged only in fiction novels. You see, this isn’t any random corner in Jerusalem, and these children are nothing short of extraordinary.

ALYN Takes Root in Los Angeles

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:01:38 GMT

We were proud to bring the spirit of ALYN Hospital to Los Angeles with a very special evening in partnership with Nice Jewish Surfers and the launch of FridayTables LA.

More than 150 people gathered for a beautiful Shabbat dinner at a Brentwood home, where they learned about ALYN’s life-changing work helping children with disabilities reach their full potential. The dinner was followed by an after-party that drew 220 attendees, filling the space with energy, connection, and genuine enthusiasm.

The overwhelming response showed just how deeply the LA community cares about ALYN’s mission. Guests expressed tremendous interest in staying involved, and we see Los Angeles as one of our most important communities for growth and impact. We’re already looking forward to returning soon to continue building this movement together.

More than 25 young professionals have already joined our group chat, and we are finalizing a date in mid-October for our first call.

Looking back at 90 years this Elul

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 14:44:28 GMT

This past Sunday we kick started our week with the commencement of the Jewish month, Elul—a month full of reflection, connection, and renewal of our goals and commitments. As we prepare for the upcoming High Holidays, we look back at the trials and tribulations our community has faced both here in the United States and overseas in Israel.

And yet, even in such difficult times, ALYN Hospital continues to embody resilience, turning these challenges into triumphs, as it has for the past 90 years.

From October 7th to Operation Rising Lion, ALYN Hospital has adapted and ensured the care for each child remained adequate, effective, and innovative. Through the creativity and dedication of programs like ALYNnovation, PARC, and PELE, ALYN found ways to serve children in real time—whether that meant reimagining therapy for those evacuated from their homes or offering new technologies to help patients regain strength and independence.

But it didn’t start here. It started in 1932, when Dr. Henry Keller, an American orthopedist, recognized the need for specialized care for children with disabilities in Israel. He dedicated his life to creating a place where medicine would meet compassion, where every child—regardless of background—would receive the chance to thrive.

Ninety years later, that vision endures. ALYN is not just a hospital; it is a community of strength, innovation, and support. As we move through Elul and prepare for a new year, we carry with us the reminder that resilience is built not only through overcoming hardship, but through the unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for the children who need us most.

September 2025 Newsletter

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 14:10:09 GMT

In this issue

LOOKING BACK AT 90 YEARS THIS ELUL

ALYN TAKES ROOT IN LOS ANGELES

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF ALYN IN AVENTURA

August was Make-A-Will Month

Looking Back, Moving Forward

As we approach a new Jewish year, I always take a moment to reflect—on the past year’s challenges and accomplishments, both personally and professionally—and to look ahead with excitement and optimism.

For American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH), this year is ending on a high note. In just the past month, we hosted successful young professional events in Boston and Los Angeles, along with a terrific parlor meeting about Wheels of Love in Aventura, Florida. Altogether, over 1,000 people participated in AFAH events this past year—an incredible sign of growing engagement and support.

At these gatherings, and during my visits to these (and other) communities, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many of you, our supporters across the country. Hearing why you became involved and what inspires your commitment to ALYN is uplifting and a powerful reminder of what brings us together.

Meanwhile, preparations for this year’s Wheels of Love bike ride are in full swing. This event is our largest fundraiser for the children of ALYN Hospital, and it creates another meaningful opportunity for our community to come together as part of the ALYN family.

Looking ahead, we are excited to build on these successes and expand our AFAH family even further. Here are some ways you can get involved in the coming year:

Join us in Israel for the Wheels of Love ride, November 3–6. There is also a pre-ride visit, November 2, to communities in the North that have been impacted by the ongoing conflict.
Ride virtually if you can’t make it to Israel. You can cycle in your own community, on a stationary bike, or simply participate as part of the family, raising essential support. Email us to learn how you can be part of the virtual ride.
Join a committee —our Young Professionals or Development/Marketing Committees are wonderful ways to expand our reach and impact.
Host a parlor meeting . All you need is a space and a willingness to invite friends, colleagues, or neighbors to learn more about ALYN. We’ll help with the program and logistics.
Make a contribution . Every gift, large or small, makes a meaningful difference for the children we serve.

Whatever role you choose, please know how deeply your support is valued. None of this would be possible without you.

On behalf of all of us at AFAH, I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year.

Adam

LOOKING BACK AT 90 YEARS THIS ELUL

ALYN TAKES ROOT IN LOS ANGELES

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF ALYN IN AVENTURA

August was Make-A-Will Month

Planning for the future is one of the most meaningful ways to care for the people and causes you love. We invite you to include ALYN Hospital in your legacy. A gift in your will—no matter the size—can help ensure that children with diverse disabilities continue to receive world-class rehabilitative care and become independent for generations to come.

Learn more about how a legacy gift can make a lasting impact here: https://alynus.mygiftlegacy.org/

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

American Friends of ALYN in Aventura

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:52:54 GMT

A heartfelt gathering of veteran riders, interested individuals, and both new and previous donors took place in Aventura, FL, at the end of August. During the meeting, we shared important insights about ALYN and the Wheels of Love annual charity event, with presentations in both English and Spanish. Victor expressed his dedication to fundraising for ALYN Hospital. We discussed how the personal donations from members of Team Beitzim helped renovate the shelter space, ensuring that respiratory patients could transition smoothly and continue their schooling and therapy comfortably.

With only 90 seconds between the sound of sirens and a potential attack, the renovations were designed to ensure that no child’s treatment or education would be interrupted. The shelter was reimagined into fully functioning classrooms, therapy rooms, and even a reception area. This transformation allows staff to immediately relocate patients and students at the first sign of danger—without sacrificing continuity of care or learning.

Every detail of the renovation was made with safety and accessibility in mind. Combining security with functionality, the renovated areas became more than shelters—they became spaces where children can continue their rehabilitation, lessons, and daily routines in an environment that is both safe and supportive for as long as necessary.

Following the discussion about the motivations that inspire riders to fundraise and support ALYN Hospital, Victor shared a moving personal reflection on why he continues to ride. He spoke about the powerful sense of community among cyclists—riders who come together from across the globe—and about the determination of the hospital’s strong and inspiring patient team. His words deeply touched everybody in the room as he described the final climb to ALYN, where patients present medals to the riders—a moment of gratitude, connection, and profound meaning.

Before the night was over, people were asking about various ways they could donate, as well as questions regarding future rides and other events.

ABOUT ROEE NEGRI

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:01:10 GMT

Roee was an outstanding soldier from the start of his army service. Once he joined the IDF's LOTAR anti-terrorist training unit as an officer - and due to the kind of leadership by example that inspires others to give of their best and his unit - it soon became the aspiration of so many of the soldiers who joined LOTAR to serve under Roee and become members of the famed "Team Negri ".

In 2022, at the age of 26, Roee became the volunteer Director General of the LOTAR Association, a non-profit organization formed to help graduates and families of graduates of LOTAR on numerous levels. Roee expanded many of the activities of LOTAR. For example, he created a program to which he gave the title "From Instructors of War to Instructors of Life". The Association gives grants to graduates of LOTAR for their academic studies in return for community service.

On that fateful Shabbat morning of October 7th, under the command Rav Seren (Major) Roee Negri, "Team Negri" was among the first combat soldiers to reach Kibbutz Beeri and go into action to free families being held hostages by the terrorists. The fighting was fierce, but Roee led his soldiers - as the truly courageous and inspiring leader that he was - from house to house, room to room, freeing family after family held hostage until they reached the last in a row of houses. In line with who Roee was, he was always, fearlessly the first to enter each house. When a terrorist surprised the unit in a corner of a room and threw a grenade, Roee pushed his team back out of its range and shot and killed the terrorist - but he sustained a bullet to his neck, a fatal injury.

At his funeral, Roee's father ended his eulogy with this question: "If God had told Roee that if he enters that last house he will be killed [but rescue the hostages and protect his team], would he or would he not have entered it?" And with one resounding voice, all the soldiers attending the funeral responded in one voice "הוא היה ניכנס" "HE WOULD HAVE GONE IN"......... And his father repeated the response ending with words, "Yes, he would have....because that was our Roee."

Roee and his team saved dozens of Israelis from being killed or kidnapped by Hamas, and all of his 17 soldiers are still in the front lines in Gaza fighting for Israel in the spirit of their beloved commander Roee Negri z"l.*

*Roee was the beloved grandson of Brenda Hirsch, Director of Resource Development for ALYN Hospital.

ROEE NEGRI MEMORIAL GRANT

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:38:11 GMT

American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH) announces the Roee Negri Memorial Grant - a tribute to the leadership and heroism displayed by IDF Major Roee Negri z”l, who was tragically killed in action on October 7. In life, Roee was a respected and beloved leader, an inspiration both to his troops as well as to his friends and family.

The Roee Negri Memorial Grant will cover the registration fee for the Wheels of Love charity bike ride (a value of $1,200), November 11-14 in Israel, benefitting ALYN Hospital, Israel’s premier pediatric rehabilitation facility.

Wheels of Love is one of Israel’s original charity rides, consisting of multiple routes at various distances and difficulty levels held over four days. The ride offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of Israel while supporting a great cause. In 2024, we are celebrating our 24th annual ride. (Please note that transportation costs are not included in the Award and there is a minimum fundraising requirement of $2,500).

We are accepting applications from U.S. and Mexican residents between the ages of 25 - 35 who have a demonstrated track record of leadership and community service, as well as a desire to participate in supporting ALYN as a healing place for children around the world.

Please read Roee’s bio here and follow the link to submit your application. Thank you for your interest in honoring Roee’s memory.

August 2025 Newsletter

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 22:13:10 GMT

In this issue

JOIN US IN WELCOMING MARCELA TO THE TEAM

WHEELS OF LOVE '25

ROSH HASHANAH CARDS

August is Make-A-Will Month

A Month of Possibilities and Purpose

August is a time of transition. “Back to school” sales begin, families squeeze in one last vacation, and the pace of life starts to shift. For us at American Friends of ALYN Hospital, this August is also when things kick into high gear as we prepare for the Wheels of Love bike ride and a range of exciting community opportunities.

Join Us for Wheels of Love

If you’re a cyclist—or know someone who is—we invite you to sign up for the 2025 Wheels of Love bike ride, taking place November 3–6 in Israel. In addition to the ride itself, participants will have the opportunity to visit communities in Israel’s north that have been deeply impacted by the ongoing conflict. This pre-ride experience on Sunday, November 2, promises to be powerful. Many of last year’s riders described the visit to the October 7th attack sites as one of the most meaningful parts of last year’s ride.

Young Professionals & Community Events

Our next Young Professionals gathering will be a Shabbat dinner in Los Angeles on Friday night, August 15. We’re also hosting a special parlor meeting in Miami on Monday, August 25. These events offer a meaningful way to connect with others who care about ALYN's mission and the children we serve. Let us know if you would like more information on either event.

Make a Will Month

August is also National Make a Will Month—a great reminder to plan for the future while making a lasting impact. Including ALYN in your legacy planning helps ensure we can continue our 90+ year mission. (See this month’s article for more information.)

These serve as a powerful reminder: behind every child we help is a caring, committed community—people like you—who believe in what’s possible.

Let me introduce you to one of those possibilities: Harel.

Harel was born with a bacterial infection that stunted the growth of his left leg. At age 4, he underwent his first limb-lengthening surgery. In the ten years since, he has had seven surgeries—and after each one, he came to ALYN for intensive rehabilitation and therapy.

Harel remembers ALYN fondly, especially his time in art therapy, where his Spiderman drawing still hangs on the wall. Today, Harel walks, runs short distances, and is living life with joy—knowing ALYN will be there for him as more surgeries lie ahead.

Your support makes Harel’s journey—and so many others—possible.

Thank you for being a part of our AFAH community.

JOIN IN WELCOMING MARCELA TO THE TEAM

After graduation, I delved into grant writing, successfully securing funding for multiple institutions through federal grants. I’m excited to bring my skills in relationship building, writing, and digital communication to the team—strengthening our connections with donors and foundations, and supporting the management of American Friends of ALYN Hospital’s social media.

Wheels OF LOVE '25

Join those who have already registered for Wheels of Love 2025 in Israel! The ride is taking place from November 3-6 and will explore the Hula Valley, Galilee, and Golan Heights. We promise this year will be meaningful and memorable.

Last year, we introduced a grant to cover the registration fees for interested participants ages 25-35 from the US and Mexico. The Roee Negri Memorial Grant is a tribute to the leadership and heroism displayed by IDF Major Roee Negri, z”l, killed on action on October 7.

READ MORE AND APPLY

ROSH HASHANAH CARDS

Wish your family, friends and loved ones a Shana Tova with a Rosh Hashanah card from ALYN Hospital!

Every pack of cards you purchase will help provide a child at ALYN with the tools to develop, thrive and enjoy independence and mobility.

Buy a package of 12 cards for $36.
Please place your order by September 9th.

*Cards can only be shipped within the United States

August is Make-A-Will Month

Planning for the future is one of the most meaningful ways to care for the people and causes you love. This Make-A-Will Month, we invite you to include ALYN Hospital in your legacy. A gift in your will—no matter the size—can help ensure that children with diverse disabilities continue to receive world-class rehabilitative care and become independent for generations to come.

Learn more about how a legacy gift can make a lasting impact here: https://alynus.mygiftlegacy.org/

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

JOIN US IN WELCOMING MARCELA

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 18:04:07 GMT

My name is Marcela Homsany, and I’m excited to join the American Friends of ALYN Hospital team as the new Development Associate.

I recently had the opportunity to visit ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem, and I was deeply moved by the incredible dedication and passion of every staff member. Their commitment to the children, their families, and the hospital's healing atmosphere was truly inspiring. One moment that left a lasting impact on me was witnessing a group of mothers participating in group physiotherapy in the rehabilitation unit with their premature babies. The delicate care, resilience, and unwavering devotion of both the mothers and the physiotherapists—helping babies who rely on ventilators learn to breathe on their own—brought me to tears.

The staff shared stories about their steadfastness during Operation Rising Lion, highlighting how they worked together, even risking their own lives, to ensure that every child could continue receiving care in a safe environment. The hospital's safe rooms are equipped with essential medical outlets and devices, ensuring that no child’s treatment is interrupted—no matter the circumstances.

A little about me: I’m a 2024 graduate of Yeshiva University with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies, concentrating in Journalism. During my studies, I contributed to several publications—including The Jerusalem Post, YU Observer, and The Breather—covering topics from geopolitical affairs to local culture. One of the highlights of my journalistic work was conducting an exclusive interview with former Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela about his work with Israel.

Looking forward to making a meaningful impact together!

Supporting Israel in Israel

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:36:45 GMT

Every year, hundreds of compassionate people journey to Israel for the opportunity to volunteer, walk, hike, and ride in support of ALYN Hospital, Israel's leading pediatric and adolescent rehabilitation center.

This remarkable facility offers hope and transformative care to children facing diverse physical challenges. The funds raised by these dedicated participants in our events allow ALYN to extend its reach and provide rehabilitative care through multidisciplinary therapies to thousands of children each year.

These events themselves are just one part of the experience. While in Israel, participants have the chance to tour ALYN Hospital, witnessing firsthand the incredible impact of their fundraising efforts. From the cutting-edge equipment and smiles on the faces of the children who find joy and healing within ALYN’s walls, a visit to this extraordinary place is truly life-changing. Join us for an event that will bring you a whole new sense of community and warmth to your heart. Be a part of making a meaningful difference in the lives of these resilient children in Israel at ALYN Hospital.

A BUSY MONTH FOR ALYN'S YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:28:22 GMT

ALYN’s Young Professionals program continues to gain momentum, connecting passionate communities across the country around our mission to help children reclaim their independence.

In Austin , we partnered with the local group Schmooze for a rooftop gathering that brought together over 100 young Jewish professionals. Guests enjoyed a warm, welcoming atmosphere and heard the moving story of Noam, a child whose journey at ALYN embodies resilience and hope. The energy was electric, and the interest in ALYN’s work was immediate and heartfelt.

A week later, we returned to New York City for another standout event with Kibbutz NYC. This time, 237 attendees packed the space for an evening of delicious home-cooked food, community-building, and a powerful talk highlighting Sarah’s story . The response was overwhelming—many left inspired and eager to learn more about ALYN’s work and how they could get involved.

This month, we’re heading to Boston , with upcoming events planned in Los Angeles, Chicago , and Miami .

The ALYN Young Professionals program is more than a series of events—it’s a growing movement of individuals who care deeply about making a positive impact in the lives of children at ALYN. People are starting to join the Young Professionals Committee, and we are planning our first meeting. Together, we’re building a nationwide network of support, energy, and impact.

July 2025 Newsletter

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 21:00:21 GMT

In this issue

A BUSY MONTH FOR ALYN'S YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

SUPPORTING ISRAEL IN ISRAEL

ROSH HASHANAH CARDS

Would you like to visit ALYN?

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Even in times of deep uncertainty, one thing never changes at ALYN: our unwavering commitment to the children who rely on us.

That commitment has been tested repeatedly over the past two years—most recently in response to the escalation with Iran. Yet through each wave of challenge, ALYN has remained fully operational, adapting swiftly and effectively to ensure the safety and care of our patients, families, and staff.

In some cases, this has meant adjusting policies on a daily basis in line with Home Front Command directives. During the most recent emergency, we:

Relocated the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department to our fortified underground shelter
Ensured day hospitalization and outpatient clinics operated only in areas within 90 seconds of protected spaces
Provided remote therapy for children safest remaining at home
Offered onsite childcare for essential staff while schools were closed nationwide
Delivered critical emotional support to patients, families, and staff through our dedicated social work and psychology teams

We were honored to learn that ALYN’s emergency response has been recognized by the Home Front Command as a model for other medical centers across Israel. It’s a powerful tribute to the professionalism, compassion, and resilience of our extraordinary team.

What has struck me most, though, is the depth of care shown day in and day out. ALYN is more than a hospital—it’s a family. In times of calm and crisis alike, people come together to do whatever is needed for the children—just as you would for your own family.

And you are part of this family. Your partnership makes it possible for us to respond in real time and to continue providing world-class rehabilitative care, even under the most difficult circumstances.

At American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH), we are working to grow this circle of support through parlor meetings, young professional events, and community outreach across the country. If you are interested in helping us expand our efforts or hosting something in your city, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to hear from you.

We remain hopeful for quieter, more peaceful days ahead—and we will continue to keep you informed.

Thank you for walking this journey with us. Am Yisrael Chai

A BUSY MONTH FOR ALYN'S YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Last month was a busy and exciting one for ALYN’s Young Professionals program as we continue to grow our community across the country. If you’re interested in getting involved or bringing ALYN’s Young Professionals program to your city, please don't hesitate to reach out.

SUPPORTING ISRAEL IN ISRAEL

This year, Wheels of Love is riding in the north from November 2nd - 6th. Join us for our 25th year of riding to support ALYN, and ending with a medal ceremony where your medals will be presented to you by children from the hospital.

Learn more about how to support Israel in Israel by READING MORE .

ROSH HASHANAH CARDS

Wish your family, friends and loved ones a Shana Tova with a Rosh Hashanah card from ALYN Hospital!

Every pack of cards you purchase will help provide a child at ALYN with the tools to develop, thrive and enjoy independence and mobility.

Buy a package of 12 cards for $36.
Please place your order by September 9th.

*Cards can only be shipped within the United States

Would you like to visit ALYN?

Come see firsthand the incredible work being done to empower these children being treated. Learn about a variety of multidisciplinary therapies tailored to meet the unique needs of every child to help them regain their independence.

Contact our office at (212)869-8085 or email us at friends@alynus.org , and we will help you plan a tour and send you home inspired and filled with hope.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

June 2025 Newsletter

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 21:17:05 GMT

In this issue

CONGRATULATIONS DR. WALLACE LEHMAN

CELEBRATING SAJA NASHEF: A BEACON OF HOPE AND COMPASSION

ALYN AT REHABWEEK 2025: LEADING THE FUTURE OF PEDIATRIC REHABILITATION

ENGAGE IN EMPATHY

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Every day, I’m reminded that the most meaningful progress often comes in stages.

At 16, Noam’s life changed forever when a fall left him paralyzed. For many months, he faced a long and intense rehabilitation journey at ALYN. Despite the challenges, Noam’s love for sports never wavered. Anything related to sports sparks his passion—and he wasn’t about to give that up.

With determination and alongside our incredible volunteers, Noam proved that when there’s a will, there truly is a way. In April, he showed us all the true meaning of strength and perseverance by participating in the Jerusalem Marathon.

Moments like these are why ALYN exists.

Our children face enormous challenges—some from birth, others following trauma or illness—but they meet them with a resilience that is nothing short of inspiring. What’s even more remarkable is how they lift us, too. Their determination fuels our mission, drives our teams, and reminds us why this work matters so deeply.

As we look ahead, I invite you to take a small step with us. Whether it’s sharing our stories, introducing a friend to ALYN, or joining us for the Wheels of Love ride this November 2–6—your involvement matters. It may seem like a small action, but as Noam has shown us, small steps can lead to incredible things.

Thank you for walking this path with us.

CONGRATULATIONS DR. WALLACE LEHMAN

Dr. Wallace B. Lehman has been inducted into the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America (POSNA) Hall of Fame, highlighting his significant contributions to pediatric orthopedics over several decades.

Known for his intellectual humility and integrity, Dr. Lehman's legacy is celebrated not only for advancing orthopedic care but also for his compassionate impact on patients and families.

CELEBRATING SAJA NASHEF: A BEACON OF HOPE AND COMPASSION

Saja Nashef, a dedicated nurse in ALYN Hospital's Rehabilitation Department, has been honored with the Humanity in Nursing Award from the Shamir School of Nursing. She is celebrated for her leadership, compassion, and ability to prevent burnout while fostering connection within her team.

Her personal experiences and the impact of her work are further highlighted in a video from her speech at the Heels of Love hike.

ALYN AT REHABWEEK 2025: LEADING THE FUTURE OF PEDIATRIC REHABILITATION

RehabWeek 2025 highlighted ALYN Hospital's significant contributions to the field of rehabilitation on a global platform. Dr. Naomi Gefen led a workshop featuring innovations in powered wheelchair training simulators, aimed at enhancing children's independence.

Additionally, PhD candidate Shoshana Steinhart introduced a tool that assesses children's functional abilities using simple home videos, promoting a more family-centered approach to rehabilitation.

ENGAGE IN EMPATHY

We are excited to have Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County students back at ALYN Hospital, presenting new and innovative solutions they created at the request of ALYN Hospital patients through our Engage in Empathy program.

Thank you for your continued support and creativity!

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

Congratulations Dr. Wallace Lehman

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 21:19:19 GMT

June 2025 Newsletter

Dr. Wallace B. Lehman has been inducted into the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America (POSNA) Hall of Fame. For decades, he has been a major figure in pediatric orthopedics. His remarkable career began with an internship and residency at the Hospital for Joint Diseases in 1958, and he later became the Chief of the Division of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery. His early career also saw him serve as Chief Orthopedic Surgeon for the Israel Defense Forces during the Yom Kippur War and as Medical Director at ALYN Children's Hospital in Jerusalem. Dr. Lehman was a founding member of the POSNA and later became a Clinical Professor at NYU. He pioneered the New York Ponseti Clubfoot Center and led international workshops teaching new techniques as well as co-authored over 115 publications on significant conditions such as clubfoot and hip dysplasia. His work was guided by a philosophy of intellectual humility, captured by a Gertrude Stein quote that adorned his office. “There is no answer. There never has been an answer. That is the answer.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Lehman is celebrated as a mensch, a man of integrity, kindness and an unwavering commitment to children's care. His legacy will be defined not just by how he helped shape orthopedic care, but by the patients and families he helped to live better and stronger lives.

ALYN at RehabWeek 2025: Leading the Future of Pediatric Rehabilitation

Thu, 29 May 2025 01:14:20 GMT

June 2025 Newsletter

We’re proud to share highlights from RehabWeek 2025, one of the world’s foremost conferences in the field of rehabilitation, where ALYN Hospital was prominently represented on the global stage.

Dr. Naomi Gefen, ALYN’s Deputy Director General for Allied Health Clinical Services and Principal Investigator of the Research Domain in Technology for Rehabilitation and Independent Function at the ALYN PARC Helmsley Pediatric & Adolescent Rehabilitation Research Center, led a powerful workshop alongside leading experts in the field.

Her session focused on two exciting advancements:

Groundbreaking simulators designed for powered wheelchair training can transform how children learn to navigate their world with greater independence.

A promising research project by PhD candidate Shoshana Steinhart, introducing a novel tool that evaluates children’s functional abilities through simple home videos recorded by parents, offering a more accessible and family-centered approach to care.

We’re honored to have ALYN’s pioneering work showcased at such a prestigious international forum and thrilled to continue shaping the future of pediatric rehabilitation, together..

Celebrating Saja Nashef: A Beacon of Hope and Compassion

Wed, 28 May 2025 21:23:02 GMT

June 2025 Newsletter

We are thrilled to celebrate Saja Nashef, a dedicated nurse in ALYN Hospital's Rehabilitation Department, who has received the prestigious Humanity in Nursing Award from the Shamir School of Nursing.

Saja is not only a leader but also a compassionate guide and anchor for her team. She prevents burnout, fosters connection, and has created a mentorship program that supports families navigating the challenging journey of pediatric rehabilitation.

Through her tireless work, Saja touches the lives of children and teens at their most vulnerable moments, trauma, loss, and pain. But she does more than treat symptoms. She provides calm, hope, and a profound human connection, offering a safe place for healing. Whether it's holding a child's hand until they are ready to move forward, or being a mentor to a family in need, Saja's presence is a constant source of strength.

Her impact can be seen in the stories of those she helps. Two mothers, one from Ashkelon and the other from Hebron, formed a powerful bond of support while their children received care at ALYN. Michael, who tragically lost his mother in a fire, was inspired to take charge of his rehabilitation journey, becoming a “commander” of his progress. Shaked, a teen with a painful condition, found renewed self-belief thanks to Saja’s commitment to walking alongside her — not just for her.

Saja, your compassion and dedication are truly inspiring. We are so proud of you and thankful for the example you set of what true care looks like.

Want to hear more from Saja herself? Watch the inspiring video of her speaking at the Night Hike, where she shares her personal experiences and the profound impact of her work at ALYN.

Thank you, Saja, for all you do to make a difference in the lives of so many!

April/May 2025 Newsletter

Thu, 15 May 2025 20:42:13 GMT

In this issue

YOUNG LEADERSHIP UPDATE

PARC

IN ISRAEL WITH ALYN

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I believe with all my heart that ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem is a holy place. It stands as a shining example of what it means to live by some of the highest Jewish values—compassion, inclusion, and unwavering commitment to helping others. At ALYN, people from all walks of life come together, united by a shared mission: to provide exceptional care and support to children with complex physical challenges. No matter what a child’s background, if they need ALYN’s services, they receive them—without hesitation.

One of the greatest privileges of my role is witnessing firsthand the life-changing work happening at ALYN every day. I also have the joy of meeting supporters from across the United States, each with a unique story about how they became connected to this extraordinary institution. Some were medical or nursing interns; others found their way through the inspiring Wheels of Love bike ride. But no matter how they came to know ALYN, they all express the same awe at its impact and spirit.

At American Friends of ALYN Hospital, our mission is to raise awareness and support for this vital institution. We’ve expanded our reach through a more dynamic presence on social media and are actively working to engage the next generation of leadership. But we know we can always do more—and we welcome your ideas. Whether large or small, every suggestion counts. Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with us.

Together, we can continue to create lasting change—for the children at ALYN, and for the world.

YOUNG LEADERSHIP UPDATE

Our young leadership program is making waves, and we're eager to share our latest triumphs with you. Last Wednesday, we collaborated with Chicago Chai, a vibrant community group, to host the Yom HaatzmaYACHT event in Chicago. This celebration of Yom Ha'atzmaut and Chicago Chai's anniversary drew a fantastic crowd of over 235 attendees, surpassing our previous NYC event.

PARC

The Helmsley Pediatric & Adolescent Rehabilitation Research Center (PARC) at ALYN Hospital focuses on enhancing the care and quality of life for young people with physical disabilities. It achieves this by evaluating the effectiveness of innovative treatment methods and ensuring the reliability and validity of new assessment tools to improve patient outcomes.

IN ISRAEL WITH ALYN

Are you looking for a way to fundraise for ALYN Hospital and go to Israel? You can ride a bike, you can take a hike for 3 days or one night.

This November will be our 25th Wheels of Love ride, and this past March was our 7th Heels of Love hike!

Last year, a night hike was added in mid-summer for people who do not have 2-3 days to hike and camp.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

Gharam's VR Success

Sat, 10 May 2025 02:27:27 GMT

Gharam, a 14-year-old from Jerusalem, has a simple wish: to be able to walk normally and go out with her friends, like she used to before she was badly injured in a car accident.

After a complex surgery and three months in a cast, Gharam visits ALYN Hospital for weekly occupational therapy sessions. She spends some of her time in the Virtual Reality (VR) room using products developed by Senserum , an ALYNnovation portfolio company.

The VR room is inviting and welcoming. Once the children put on their VR headsets, they are transported to a world devoid of disabilities and difficulties. Instead, they are immersed in a game or action that requires mobility. It’s hard work, but they WANT to do it so they can win the game or succeed at the task they’ve been given.

“It’s fun for me and I enjoy the VR therapy,” Gharam says with a smile. “Some of the other therapies are boring or painful. In the VR room I move much more because I forget the pain and concentrate on the games and activities.”

And Gharam? She is working hard toward her goal of walking without crutches. “In the VR room I am walking much better. I can’t wait to walk everywhere without pain, get back to school and hang out with my friends”

Meet Tzlil

Sat, 10 May 2025 02:25:16 GMT

Tzlil was seriously injured in a car accident. She arrived at ALYN on a respirator and in a coma 10 months ago. Even veteran ALYN staff, who had seen miraculous recoveries against all odds, had a bad feeling that this time the cruel reality was that this young girl would never come out of the coma and would remain in nursing care for good. Indeed, over the first few months, Tzlil did not respond at all despite the various therapies and medications. Her days were spent in agonizing discomfort, while her dedicated family surrounded her with love, never giving up. Gradually, the discussion turned to the possibility of transferring Tzlil to a nursing home.

Surprisingly, four months after the accident, Tzlil began to respond to music, to speech and to touch, although she was still unable to express herself in any way. Once she started responding, improvement was slow but unremitting. I have known Tzlil and her parents throughout the entire 10 months. I have seen how they have reached out for support from different parts of their community. How they have recruited top musicians and songwriters to come to her bedside, and how her first responses were to familiar songs, although we still did not hear her voice.

Tzlil is still making progress, now talking fluently. She still requires a lot of assistance in activities of daily living, and is still working to improve through multidisciplinary therapies by our Brain Injury Team. She ambulates in a powered wheelchair and will probably be a day patient at ALYN for months to come. The road ahead for Tzlil is still long, but she will fight alongside us to earn her right to her own voice and opinion and ability to function in a world that won’t give up on children like her.

Shimon's Journey to Recovery

Sat, 10 May 2025 02:24:30 GMT

Shimon is almost 12 years old and is a triplet! He was born healthy and remained healthy until he started having back pains earlier this year. After going to the doctor and having a number of tests including an MRI, the doctors discovered that he had a malformation of the blood vessels leading to his spinal cord. Due to complications of the surgery, he was left paralyzed from the waist down (paraplegic).

When Shimon came to ALYN Hospital in April 2019 (just a few days before Pesach), he was not able to hold his own body weight to sit up at all. He needed a specialized wheelchair that supported his entire body in a sitting position.

Today, after a tremendous amount of effort working in various therapies, especially physiotherapy, Shimon is now able to use a regular wheelchair. He also has intensive occupational therapy, hydrotherapy and psychological treatment, and he learns in the ALYN Hospital Learning Center within the Rehabilitation Department to help him stay on target with his progress in school. His treatments are augmented by using medical clowns, virtual reality, therapeutic gardening, animal assisted therapy, art and the therapeutic sports center.

In addition to all of the above, the ALYN Hospital staff of the Learning Center as well as the social worker reached out with advice and guidance to the staff of Shimon’s school regarding what adaptations would be needed in order to re-admit him – with his wheelchair – this fall so that he can go back to his class, his teachers and his friends. He still has a long road of continued rehabilitation ahead of him, but Shimon and his family can take comfort in the knowledge that they can rely on the ALYN Hospital staff to be there for them the entire way.

Raz Ben David: Former ALYN Patient, Striking a Positive Chord

Sat, 10 May 2025 02:22:54 GMT

In December 2014, Raz Ben David experienced a spinal cord infarction, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. The doctors who diagnosed him at a general hospital thought the damage was so severe that he would not walk again. The following month, Raz was referred to ALYN Hospital for rehabilitation. Turns out he is one of only 33 people in the world who have had this specific type of spinal cord infarction. As far as we know, no other known patient with this specific condition is reported to have mobility except for Raz.

At ALYN, he received intense physical therapy, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy, as well as psychological support for both him and his parents. Raz’s father says about the staff at ALYN, “The people here are amazing, truly amazing. They are giving, caring, genuinely concerned and do their very best.”

Due to the complexity of his condition, he stayed at ALYN as an in-patient. Within a few months, he had progressed from using a wheelchair to walking in the pool, then to walking on the ground with a walker and then to walking with crutches. Raz recalls his success with hydrotherapy, “The first time I stood since the injury was in the water. In the water, the body ‘remembers’ how to move. I have more freedom to move without having to think about stability or what will happen if I fall. I have much greater freedom of movement in the water.”

While Raz had been playing the saxophone since the age of 9, during his time at ALYN he also began to compose and writing his own pieces.

Raz was eventually released to Day Hospitalization, meaning that he continued intense rehabilitation, but he slept at home with his family. At the same time, he trained with the Swift and the Bold, ALYN’s cycling team made up of current and former patients. Raz trained on a tandem bicycle with his father and in November 2015 he participated in Wheels of Love with the Swift and the Bold. During the gala event of the Wheels of Love that year, he was given the opportunity to perform a 20-minute set accompanying David Broza on the saxophone.

Raz was fully released from ALYN in September 2016, coming back for a follow-up about six months later. He is now almost 22, is completing his studies at the Rimon School of Music, Israel's largest independent professional school for advanced study of jazz, R&B, bebop, rock, and pop music, and has just put out his first music video, a cover of Idan Raichel’s song Mi’Col Ha’ahavot (Of All the Loves) on which he sings and plays the saxophone.

He is currently working on his first single, titled “Every day is a war”. He says it is the story of his life.

In an interview with a local newspaper, Zman Maaleh, Raz recently said, “I love who I am today. I’ve learned about my own strengths and I am a much stronger person today, which is life-changing. It’s important for me to succeed and realize my larger goals so that I can inspire others who are in a tough place to believe in themselves.”

Yitzhak: A Mother's Thanks

Sat, 10 May 2025 02:14:13 GMT

Raizy Wachsman wrote two whole pages of thanks to the staff at ALYN Hospital after her son, Yitzhak, had been referred to ALYN for rehabilitation in the fall of 2020 after being hit by a car while crossing a busy road. Yitzhak had sustained multiple injuries, including a rib fracture and a severe fracture in his femur. His leg had to be stabilized with metal rods into the bone from both sides of his knee to the pelvis. While his rehabilitation process originally began at the local Kupat Cholim, Yitzhak was soon after referred to ALYN. “From our first meeting at ALYN with Dr. Michal, we immediately felt assured that Yitzi’s case would really be taken to heart!” said Raizy.

After many months of slow progress, after Purim, Yitzhak had surgery to remove the rods and he is now slowly regaining movement and independence.

Raizy thoughtfully thanked all the staff members with whom they had come into contact, detailing each person by name – from the security guards at the entrance to the executive management. Below are some excerpts from her letter:

In these pictures, Yitzhak walks a dog up and down the corridor in ALYN during his Dog-Assisted Physical Therapy session. The day prior, his doctor had measured his legs using a measuring tape, and so Yitzhak decided that he wanted to wear a measuring tape around his neck. In response to questions as to why he was wearing a measuring tape, Itzhak replied, “I want to be like my doctor!”

“To the management of ALYN Hospital,

This week we are ending the rehabilitation period of our son Yitzhak Wachsman (4-years-old), who was injured in a car accident and came to you for orthopedic rehabilitation. From the outset, we felt that we were in good, experienced and caring hands, and with each passing day these feelings intensified and deepened!!! The entire staff – without exception – is endowed with a patient, cordial, warm and understanding approach to children, from the security guards at the entrance and all the office workers to the doctors, therapists and professionals.

Orit [Bar Tov], the Head of the Physical Therapy Department, told us that, ‘I will only hire a staff person for ALYN who I feel would be worthy of caring for my very own children.’

Throughout the rehabilitation period, we felt that not only Orit and her staff treat the children of ALYN as their own, but that the heads of all the departments choose staff who would be suitable to take care of their children, literally!”

A Boy, a Bike Ride, and BESHERT

Sat, 10 May 2025 02:09:54 GMT

In 2018, Meori Landau, then 8-years-old, was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor, requiring complex surgery to have it removed, followed by two months of radiation treatments in the United States. Not long after, he experienced a complication: obstructions in blood vessels in his brain, which led to two bypass surgeries. The first bypass procedure was followed by a stroke that caused paralysis in the left side of his body. Meori was first treated at a children’s hospital in Israel where he began to regain some functioning on his left side, although his left hand remained paralyzed.

As a point of true beshert, Meori’s family was connected to ALYN Hospital in a special way – Meori’s father, Hovav, had been participating in the Whee ls of L ove bike ride, raising funds for ALYN Hospital, since 2005. For Hovav, ALYN was already a place he considered his second home. Combining bike riding with the mitzvah of tzedakah is something he looks forward to year after year. So, without thinking twice, he contacted Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital, and asked if Meori could be admitted there for the duration of his rehabilitation process, to which Dr. Beeri agreed. In Hovav’s words: “To us, it was clear we were going home.”

Over the next 18 months, Meori followed an intensive rehabilitation plan at ALYN to address his challenges. The rehabilitation specialists worked with him on restoring full func tioning of his left leg, on his speech which had been detrimentally affected by the stroke, along with physiotherapy and occupational therapy to treat his left hand. Meori still goes to ALYN once a week to continue rehabilitation, now focusing on control over his fingers which aren't fully functional yet. Meori’s doctors and therapists are very pleased with his progress – he attends his regular school, rides a bike and is back to being an 11-year-old boy. He even starred in a television interview with his father recently to discuss his treatment and talk about the bike ride. Watch here (in Hebrew).

Early on during Meori’s rehabilitation process, in appreciation of ALYN’s work with his son, Hovav found a way to give back to ALYN – In the summer of 2020, during the height of the pandemic, when the hospital was under strict social distancing protocols, Hovav raised money to purchase accessible picnic tables with umbrellas and benches at a discounted rate, and got a friend who has a woodshop to donate his own time and the time of some of his workers to come with Hovav and Meori to deliver and assemble the items here at ALYN! With accessible picnic tables, families – including families with children who use wheelchairs – would be able to sit comfortably outside.

Last month, Hovav participated in his 17th Wheels of Love ride with a new sense of appreciation. He realized that for 17 years he had been contributing to his own child’s recovery. Making the event even more meaningful this year – Meori rode with his father for the final kilometers of Wheels of Love!

In an article Hovav wrote for Ynet before this year’s ride, he expressed his gratitude as follows: “When I join the bike ride this year, it will be as a different person, a different rider. I'll be riding in gratitude to the wonderful medical teams who worked, and are still working, with Meori, who invests and believes in his ability to continue advancing and improving . I'll be riding so that other mothers and fathers like me can benefit from the best of professional care for their sons and daughters. I'm racing on these trails for the hospital’s sake, because I want to shout at the top of my lungs: THANK YOU! And that’s a fantastic feeling.” Read the whole article (in Hebrew).

Meori’s name comes from the word “or”, which in Hebrew means “light”. Soon we will all celebrate Channukah, the Festival of Lights. Meori’s family, like so many other families touched by ALYN Hospital, will be looking forward to a renewed sense of light and joy.

ALYN Success Story: Leonard Ariel

Sat, 10 May 2025 01:11:05 GMT

Meet Leonard Ariel.

Leonard Ariel Andre’ev was born in November 2020 at only 27 weeks, weighing less than two pounds. He had a twin brother who died within a month due to medical complications.

Leonard Ariel was respirated from birth, and there were long periods that he was anesthetized and respirated due to an exacerbated lung disease. Breathing for him was terribly painful, leading to intensive treatment with steroids, painkillers and drugs. (He would later need drug-treatment therapy from ALYN to wean him off the medications.)

At the age of five months, in April 2021, Leonard Ariel underwent tracheal surgery at the Wolfson Medical Center. Two months later, the family met Dr. Eliezer Be’eri, Director of the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department at ALYN Hospital and Leonard Ariel began treatment at ALYN in November 2021.

Leonard Ariel’s mother shares her family’s success story with us:

“We knew we wanted to send Leonard Ariel to ALYN, which is why we had him undergo the tracheal surgery at Wolfson; it was a condition for being admitted to the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department at ALYN, and we wanted to do everything possible to have Leonard Ariel treated there.

We toured ALYN in June 2021 with Dr. Be’eri and other staff from ALYN and we were so impressed and couldn’t wait to transfer to their care. We prayed at the Kotel (Western Wall) and it was a very spiritual time.

Unfortunately, we had to stay longer in Wolfson because he started having asthma attacks. The doctors decided we needed to put him into a full coma so that his little body would stop fighting the act of breathing. He was in a medically induced coma for several months. Most heartbreaking was our fear that he might have to be kept asleep forever.

He was anesthetized and respirated for several months. When they brought him out of the coma around his first birthday, he weighed over 30 pounds – a result of massive amounts of steroids.

Soon after, a staff member from ALYN came to Wolfson with a ventilator and helped us prepare Leonard Ariel for transport.

Within a few months of treatment at ALYN, we were able to completely wean Leonard Ariel from the ventilator. Getting rid of the ventilator during the day has changed our world completely. The little things - showering, taking trips, transitioning from one place to another – are all so much easier without the added burden of an attached ventilator.

His entire time at ALYN has been during the pandemic and we have been at his side 24/7 for fifteen straight months, without being able to go home or take him with us for short home visits. During this time, the ALYN staff has made sure we have learned everything there is to know as parents of a respirated child - how to handle and maintain the ventilator machine, how to replace the cannula (tube) and more.

I'm excited to be released home with him. My dream is to be with him at home. Thanks to the progress he has made at ALYN, my dream will soon come true! ”

According to Leonard Ariel’s therapists, with continued intensive motor and respiratory rehabilitation, he has reached the following milestones in his time at ALYN:

Moves his hands and feet against gravity
Holds a toy for the first time in his life
Brings things to his mouth
Transfers toys from one hand to another
Eats on his own for the first time
Succeeds in sitting with support, rolling and turning around.

Next year, when he is back with his family, he will enter a daycare center in Holon.

ALYN Enables Muhi's Reunion With His Father in the UAE

Sat, 10 May 2025 01:05:04 GMT

Meet Muhi.

Mohammed, known as Muhi to his friends and family, has spent most of his life at ALYN Hospital. He is 22-years old, on chronic ventilation and uses a powered wheelchair. He is able to use his hands and fingers, and is able to speak, but his speech is very difficult for most people who do not know him to understand.

For many years, Muhi had not been in close touch with his father, who lives in Abu Dhabi. They were able to reconnect several years ago, when Muhi’s father sent him a smartphone, allowing Muhi to spend time with his father and younger brothers on video calls. At that time, there was no travel possible between Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

In August of 2020, Israel and the United Arab Emirates signed the Abraham Accords Peace Agreement, marking the first public normalization of relations between an Arab country and Israel since 1994 (Jordan). The peace agreement enabled the opening of travel between Israel and the UAE. Once the pandemic travel limitations were eased in March 2022, Muhi’s father invited him to come visit him in Abu Dhabi.

The ALYN Hospital Deputy Director of Clinical Services, Dr. Naomi Gefen, and ALYN social worker, Sharon Cherqui Agour, persevered in meeting the many (and often changing) demands of the airline, the health insurance company, and the passport authorities to make the travel arrangements for Muhi and his Arabic-speaking caregiver, Hatev, including making contact with hospitals where Muhi would be travelling to ensure that he would have emergency care if needed.

Muhi expressed that he was very, very happy to have spent the time with his family and is grateful to ALYN Hospital for help making the reunion possible. And if anyone is going to travel to the UAE – he’d be happy to give tips on where to visit!

Elazar and His Parents Receive Tools for At-Home Care

Sat, 10 May 2025 01:02:40 GMT

Meet Elazar.

On April 30, 2021, then 12-years old, Elazar Berger was crushed under the crowd of people at the tragic event in Meron, Israel. He was the youngest survivor and the first victim to be evacuated to a hospital. He spent more than one month in the ICU. When he was finally discharged from the medical hospital, he was transferred to ALYN Hospital for rehabilitation.

Elazar spent the following three months as an in-patient at the ALYN Respiratory Rehabilitation Department with his parents at his bedside. He was dependent on respiratory assistance and was in need of being weaned off of pain killers, along with facing several physical challenges. The goal was to wean Elazar off the respiratory aids and the medication, while also following an intense rehabilitative therapy protocol.

His mother, Reuma said, “In the hospital, they told us that this is a ‘long-distance run.’ We didn’t want to believe it, but it turns out they were right, they knew.”

Elazar’s intense rehabilitative therapy protocol included occupational therapy, physical and speech therapy and hydrotherapy. By October 2021, Elazar was able to breathe on his own, and he was transferred to the ALYN General Rehabilitation Department to continue his physical rehabilitation.

Elazar also attended ALYN’s educational services for hospitalized school-aged children, participating in Hebrew classes, music and computer.

Parents play a significant role as partners in the success of their child’s rehabilitation from the beginning. This was especially important for Elazar. While Elazar received treatment at ALYN, his parents were provided with support to prepare for his eventual return home. A psychologist helped them prepare for the changes that may occur when Elazar is back home and in their community. A social worker helped them navigate Israel’s healthcare system so they could access the maximum benefits available. Medical staff and para-medical therapists taught Elazar’s parents how to care for him at home, teaching them about the equipment and medical supplies required.

A year later, May 2022, Elazar was ready to go home to be with his family. His family is thrilled to have him back home. They are dedicated to caring for Elazar and assisting him with his ongoing rehabilitation to continue improving his condition.

His father, Dov, expressed his gratitude saying, “Everyone has their part to play. We have to pray hard and, in the hospital, to work hard.”

Dov also said, “Elazar arrived at ALYN in a very difficult medical condition and left in an immeasurably good medical condition. Beyond the medical treatment, Elazar received a lot of love and warmth that contributed a lot to his recovery. Elazar was happy to come to the hospital and felt safe and relaxed, which cannot be taken for granted.”

At ALYN, our goal is always to send each child home to live with their family in their communities with as much independence and mobility as possible.

Ron's Story

s.butler@levitateapp.com (S Butler) — Sat, 10 May 2025 00:59:32 GMT

Meet Ron.

Ron’s birth started off as a typical delivery but quickly, an emergency c-section was necessary. He was not breathing or moving. His lungs had not fully developed . Ron was in shock .

Genetic testing showed that Ron had an unusual genetic mutation. Genetic mutations can either be inherited or newly acquired. In Ron’s case, he was found to have a combination of these types of mutations, which is extremely rare. As a result, it is unknown what the outcome of his condition will be.

At three-months old, Ron arrived at ALYN Hospital. He depended on a ventilator 24/7. He was physically very weak.

Ron was hospitalized as an inpatient for four months in ALYN Hospital’s Respiratory Rehabilitation Department. In addition to respiratory rehabilitation, Ron received physical therapy three to four times per week, weekly sessions in the feeding clinic, speech therapy including using an eye-tracking system with a laptop, occupational therapy and hydrotherapy. The goal, of course, was to improve Ron’s medical condition so he could live with his family at home and integrate back into his community.

Dr. Nitay Fraenkel, Deputy Director of the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department, was able to wean him off the ventilator for twenty minutes at a time. His mother, Danit, said: “… being able to temporarily disconnect Ron from the ventilator gives us calm and time to process. We have learned so much at ALYN: how to treat him, how not to fear him, how to be his Ima (mother) and Aba (father).”

Ron has been discharged to continue his rehabilitation in the community, and will attend a rehabilitation nursery near his home starting in September. ALYN staff will continue to follow Ron’s progress and recommend treatment as needed.

ALYN Hospital’s innovative and best-in-class rehabilitation protocols advance the science of rehabilitating children worldwide who have disabilities, whether their conditions are common or, as in Ron’s case, highly unique. ALYN Hospital proudly continues to be a leading pediatric rehabilitation hospital, including pediatric respiratory rehabilitation.

Aliza's Story

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:48:42 GMT

Meet Aliza.

“You make your own rainbow –

it can either be colorful or boring!”

says Aliza who grew up at ALYN Hospital.

Aliza, who turns 56 this month, was born in the north part of Israel, one of eight children. During her first two weeks of life there were no noticeable problems, but after several incidents of her bones breaking and needing emergency care, she was diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (also known as Brittle Bone Disease). A doctor recommended ALYN Hospital as they had experience with this disease.

At the age of three, Aliza came to live at ALYN Hospital, which was then primarily a long-term orthopedic hospital offering intensive rehabilitation services. Back then, there were three long-term departments, each with approximately 24 children. Aliza remembers that while she missed her family terribly, even then she was grateful that ALYN took such good care of her and provided the therapeutic treatments she needed, including physical, occupational and speech therapies, as well as hydrotherapy.

Aliza shared, “doctors used to encourage families not to deal with their children with disabilities and to put them in an institution. Now the norm is to keep them home and this is on the one hand very hard for the parents, but very good for the children and for society. ”

As a resident of ALYN, Aliza attended school in the hospital. In those years, school only went through sixth grade. Aliza and three friends wanted to continue their schooling and insisted on going to high school. After much searching and negotiation done by the ALYN staff, the four of them were enrolled in the only main-stream high school in Jerusalem that was willing to accept children with severe physical disabilities. It was very hard at first for them to integrate into their age-appropriate grade levels, but they persevered and succeeded in school. They received continued support and guidance from the staff and volunteers of ALYN to navigate socially and deal with accessibility issues. Aliza was one of the first patients at ALYN to complete 12th grade, including passing matriculation exams. (See attached article from the 1984 ALYN News about their graduation.)

After high school Aliza had to face integrating into society. ALYN prepares graduates to be independent with life skills like shopping, banking and transportation. She applied for many jobs and studied hard to improve her English. One job opportunity became available and she has been there ever since. Aliza secured her own apartment and became the manager of the kiosk at ALYN Hospital!

“Working at ALYN has really helped me; it’s like therapy… I understand that everyone is different, and we need to accept those who are different from us. The more I talk with people, the more they realize that the disability is not who I am .”

Aliza met her husband, David, at ALYN when he was volunteering. Due to Aliza’s brittle bones, some doctors discouraged pregnancy but with careful monitoring they have two daughters. Like all parents though, the worries didn’t end once they were born; Aliza worried about how to raise and care for them. Aliza and David learned how to manage together and had a caregiver to help. When their first daughter was born, she recalls, “I had so many worries – maybe she will like the caregiver better than me, maybe she won’t like that her mother is in a wheelchair. I learned that when we want something, we can do anything. I did everything myself, and I learned to better understand my disability and my abilities. I have made sure that my children had all the experiences of other children, even if I didn’t enjoy something. We went to playgrounds, amusement parks and birthday parties. I was happy to see my children doing things that I couldn’t do, and how they made them happy.”

Aliza’s determination and upbeat personality continues. She is grateful to run her kiosk at ALYN because it allows her to encourage and maintain a connection with current ALYN pediatric patients and their parents. They see how she has overcome so much, and it gives them hope.

Aliza says, “ I speak with the children and the parents all the time and am living proof that someone with a disability can live a full life, have a family, work, contribute. We have children with very serious conditions and sometimes very limited abilities, but with help, they can be happy and succeed. ”

Aliza’s philosophy, "Don’t be closed-minded, we are not pitiful – we have disabilities, and it is not the end of the world. We have difficult situations, and the donor needs to know how to be on the side of the giver – to give in dignity to help even the most limited children be as healthy and happy as possible.”

Breathing Together: Yaman's Story

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:44:56 GMT

Meet Yaman.

BREATHE. ALYN Hospital's Respiratory Rehabilitation Department focuses on this fundamental function. The department is the only one of its kind in Israel and accepts patients from ICU departments around the world. Your support helps them wean patients off artificial ventilation, or - if this is not possible - to stabilize the ventilator-dependent youngsters so that they can return to their families as quickly as possible using a portable ventilator machine. In the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department children also receive pulmonary rehabilitation alongside occupational therapy, communication and feeding therapy, physical therapy, love, and support.

Every year, about 70 ventilated children from intensive care units in Israel come to ALYN’s Respiratory Rehabilitation Department, and they successfully release about 95% of them to their homes, in most cases within a few weeks or months. At ALYN each child receives customized holistic treatments. Their families are part of the rehabilitation process and are prepared to care for them at home.

INNOVATION AND EXPERIENCE UNITE A FAMILY

Baby Yaman was able to go home for the first time since his birth thanks to an innovative brain catheterization through his umbilical cord at Hadassah Hospital followed by successful Respiratory Rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital. Yaman was born in April. A scan during pregnancy discovered a malformation in a blood vessel in his brain and his parents were told he would not survive. However, hours after his birth he was whisked into surgery in an effort to prevent serious and life-threatening complications from the malformation. His umbilical cord was deliberately left after birth to enable this pioneering procedure. After four months at Hadassah Hospital, Yaman is now receiving long-term intensive rehabilitation at ALYN in the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department. He is communicating with his parents and is able to go outside the ward with them! Yaman’s family and four older siblings are grateful to the committed ALYN team and eagerly waited for his arrival home with the use of a portable ventilator.

AMAZING SATISFACTION

“Amazing satisfaction” is how Adi Yisrael Gedadi an occupational therapist at ALYN describes what she and other members of the ALYN Respiratory Rehabilitation team feel when they see the children able to go home.

“Someone once described our profession as being like an octopus -- we have many arms so we can somehow take charge of all kinds of fields,“ she explains. Due to the unique complexities of each child’s situation, the occupational therapists at ALYN deal with fine motor skills, like working on hand function with the aid of computer games on laptops. With a young child it may be through play. If it is a child about to go to school or kindergarten, they help them to begin to use pencils and scissors. If the child is already in school, they work on hand function through writing. Sometimes the OTs also work on cognitive skills of higher order thinking or activities of daily living like how to get dressed and eating independently.

“I am now treating a baby born with difficult Cerebral Palsy,” says Adi. “His mother comes from an ultra-Orthodox group and only speaks Yiddish. While I don’t speak the language and don’t understand anything, with the baby’s mother as a full partner in the rehabilitation, together, we are succeeding beyond our expectations. The baby has now achieved a level of motor functioning that we had not anticipated. Moments like this make my work meaningful and rewarding, for example, seeing him consistently and intentionally extend his hand in order to play a game. Observing the mother and son connection that happens during our rehabilitation sessions is amazing too. He has the ability to listen to her and, while he doesn’t talk, he communicates with sounds and gestures.”

“Some days are challenging, but when we succeed and see the children’s medical conditions improving, it gives us all strength and we can breathe easier.”

Young Leadership Update

Mon, 05 May 2025 20:38:57 GMT

April/May 2025 Newsletter

Exciting things are happening with our efforts to build a young leadership program, and we are thrilled to share the latest developments with you!

Last Wednesday, we held our inaugural Chicago event in partnership with Chicago Chai, a dynamic community group that unites young Jewish professionals. The Yom HaatzmaYACHT event celebrated Yom Ha'atzmaut and marked Chicago Chai's anniversary. We are deeply grateful to have been part of this milestone which was attended by over 235 people celebrating Israel's 77th birthday. This event surpassed the turnout from our inaugural event held in NYC this past January. The event provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful connections and inspiration. Guests enjoyed delicious kosher food generously donated by Milt's BBQ .

We are actively planning more exciting gatherings in the coming months. We look forward to sharing details about these future events in Austin, Boston, and Philadelphia and encourage you to let us know if there is anyone you want to make sure is invited.

As always, thank you for your continued support in helping us raise awareness and engage the next generation of leaders.

In Israel with ALYN

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 20:56:31 GMT

April/May 2025 Newsletter

Heels of Love

The 7th annual Heels of Love hike took place March 3-6 this year, was a beautiful climb with friends gathering to talk about ALYN Hospital and the special community created there. Participants embarked on a hiking and camping adventure. Throughout the event, attendees not only enjoyed the natural beauty of their surroundings but also bonded over their shared commitment to making a meaningful difference at ALYN.

Let us know if you would like information about next year's hike, friends@alynus.org

Night Hike

Experience the beauty of the desert at nighttime and make an impact at ALYN Hospital this summer. As the sun dips below the horizon, the desert begins to transform into a serene landscape. The moon casts a glow so bright flashlights are unnecessary. This natural illumination allows you to appreciate the subtle details of the desert, from the delicate patterns in the sand shaped by the wind to the silhouettes of hardy plants that thrive in such an arid climate.

Join us July 10, 2025
Register now

Wheels of Love

A celebration of unity and compassion, where people come together to make a real difference. Our incredible riders push themselves to the limit so that the children at ALYN Hospital can conquer their own challenges—infusing every pedal stroke with healing, hope, and the joy of movement.

Wheels of Love is the original Israeli bike ride fundraiser that continues to support ALYN Hospital —whether it’s a child taking their first tentative steps after an injury or a community striving to rebuild after loss. We invite you to be part of this incredible journey.

Join us November 3-6, 2025
Register Now

Tzuriel Frankenthal

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:55:26 GMT

March 2025 Newsletter

Like many of ALYN’s patients, Tzuriel Frankenthal was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child. However, in 1989, the landscape of pediatric rehabilitation looked very different than what exists today. Many of the groundbreaking advancements in assistive technology, rehabilitation therapies, and adaptive equipment that ALYN employs today were either in their infancy or did not yet exist. Access to specialized care was more fragmented, and families had to fight harder to piece together the best resources available for their children.

Throughout childhood, Tzuriel’s father relentlessly gave his son every possible opportunity to grow, develop, and gain independence. He sought specialists, pushed for innovative treatments, and refused to accept limitations. This tireless commitment helped shape Tzuriel into the determined individual he is today. Many of the rehabilitation techniques that are now standard at ALYN were still in experimental stages when Tzuriel was undergoing treatment in the 1990s and early 2000s. Looking back, he sees how much progress has been made—not just in medical advancements but in the philosophy of rehabilitation itself. While no two patients are alike, he is continually amazed by the remarkable strides ALYN’s young patients make daily. Seeing children today reach mobility and independence that once seemed out of reach fills him with admiration and hope.

One of the aspects of ALYN that Tzuriel admires most is its holistic, multi-dimensional, and patient-specific approach to rehabilitation. To him, ALYN is not just a hospital; it is a think tank, a hub of innovation, and a community of experts who stop at nothing to ensure every child can access the best possible care. Unlike in his childhood, where resources were scattered and often difficult to obtain, he now sees all the essential rehabilitation services housed under one roof at ALYN, giving children a far greater chance at success.

Tzuriel’s relationship with ALYN began in 2007 when he was exploring a career in rehabilitation. His involvement with the hospital was initially focused on generating new ideas and raising awareness about ALYN’s mission. His passion for the work and deep personal connection to the hospital fueled his involvement for many years. His role has since shifted primarily toward financial support, ensuring that ALYN remains a global leader in pediatric rehabilitation. However, his emotional connection to ALYN runs much deeper. For Tzuriel, ALYN is more than a hospital—it symbolizes possibility, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every child, regardless of their physical challenges, deserves the chance to reach their full potential.

At the beginning of this year, Tzuriel fulfilled a lifelong dream by making Aliyah. As part of his journey, he dedicated a brick at ALYN Hospital to honor his late father who was so vital to shaping Tzuriel’s outlook on perseverance, determination, and pursuing the best possible care.

March 2025 Newsletter

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:32:40 GMT

In this issue

TZURIEL FRANKENTHAL

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As we move from March to April in the calendar, our sights set on the holiday of Passover and the themes of redemption, resilience, and hope. We are also reminded of the strength it takes to overcome hardship and the power of providing assistance to those in need. At ALYN Hospital, Israel’s premier pediatric rehabilitation center, we can get a first hand view of the themes of resilience and hope as children facing unimaginable challenges fight every day to regain mobility, independence, and a sense of normalcy.

Passover is a time when we retell the story of our people’s journey from bondage to freedom. For the children of ALYN, the journey to freedom is not one of miles, but of milestones—taking a first step after injury, learning to navigate the world from a wheelchair, or simply holding a loved one’s hand after months of therapy. Each small victory is a modern-day miracle made possible by compassionate supporters like you.

When people like you support American Friends of ALYN Hospital, you help to provide state-of-the-art treatments, advanced therapies, and cutting-edge equipment that empower the children at ALYN to reclaim their lives. A child who needs it can receive the support of a ventilator, speak their first words after a traumatic injury, or learn to move freely despite physical limitations.

Every year at the Seder table we recite "Avadim Hayinu…..”—we were slaves, but now we are free. The children at ALYN come into the system as captives, slaves, of whatever challenge they are facing. The professionals at ALYN work tirelessly with these children to help provide them the gift of freedom.

As you celebrate with loved ones, may you be blessed with joy, health, and the knowledge that you can help transform lives. Please join us by clicking here to support the incredible work being done at ALYN Hospital.

WELCOME TO ALYN CASTLE

Once upon a time, in the enchanting land of Jerusalem, nestled among the ordinary, there emerged a magical realm known as ALYN Castle. This wasn't just any castle, mind you, but a wondrous creation within the walls of ALYN Hospital, the premier pediatric rehabilitation center where dreams take flight and little hearts find joy. Every year, the hospital embarks on a whimsical transformation, draping its halls with vibrant tales and fantastical themes to delight its young residents. This year, the castle rose from the ground like a storybook dream, inviting children to step into a world of chivalry, charm, and cheer.

TZURIEL FRANKENTHAL

Wheels of Love '25 Registration is OPEN!

Registration is OPEN. Preliminary routes are online.

Four Days of Riding, Unity & Remembrance
Monday, Nov 3 - Thursday, Nov 6, 2025

Experience an epic journey filled with challenging rides, breathtaking scenery, and meaningful moments . This is more than just a ride—it’s a mission to support the children of ALYN.

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

Young Leadership Shabbat

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:44:10 GMT

February 2025 Newsletter

On January 31st, AFAH hosted its first young leadership event in Manhattan, bringing together an incredible group for a meaningful and lively Shabbat experience. We partnered with Kibbutz NYC, a vibrant community group that organizes monthly Shabbat gatherings across the city, and we can’t thank them enough for their support in making this event a success.

The turnout exceeded our expectations, with 220 young professionals aged 25-37 filling the space with energy and enthusiasm. Through Kibbutz NYC, Breads Bakery generously provided delicious challah and babka. One of Kibbutz NYC’s organizers dedicated the entire week leading up to the event to preparing an incredible homemade meal featuring chicken shawarma, shakshuka, salmon, quinoa, a bean and spinach salad, and homemade hummus. We were incredibly proud that the entire meal was gluten-free, making it accessible to even more attendees.

As the room filled, we gathered for Kiddush. I had the privilege of speaking about ALYN Hospital and sharing the inspiring story of Noam, a child whose rehabilitation journey was shared last September in Mako. The audience was engaged and deeply moved by the hospital’s impact, setting a meaningful tone for the rest of the evening.

After the meal, the Shabbat gathering effortlessly transformed into a lively dance party. Having attended many of these events myself, I can confidently say that this was one of the most memorable Shabbat celebrations in the city in a long time.

Beyond the incredible atmosphere, the event sparked genuine interest in AFAH’s mission. Several attendees approached Davida and me throughout the night to express their enthusiasm about getting more involved, with many inquiring about joining our young leadership committee. Following the event, we sent a follow-up email with an outstanding open rate of over 90%, a testament to the excitement and engagement the evening generated.

This event was more than just a Shabbat dinner—it was the beginning of a growing community dedicated to making a difference. We can’t wait to build on this momentum and continue fostering connections with passionate young professionals who want to support ALYN’s incredible work.

February 2025 Newsletter

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:39:30 GMT

In this issue

YOUNG LEADERSHIP SHABBAT

CHANGE IN LOCATION & BRING A FRIEND

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As I write this month’s update, I find myself overwhelmed with conflicting emotions. For months, we have been praying and advocating for the return of the hostages held in Gaza. We worried about how they and their families were enduring these unimaginable circumstances. We felt immense relief and joy for those who were released and reunited with their loved ones. Yet, we continued to hold our breath, hoping, praying, and advocating for those who remained captive.

The plight of the Bibas family, in particular, captured the hearts of people around the world. We held onto hope that two young boys, Ariel and Kfir, taken hostage alongside their mother, Shiri, were somehow still alive. When their father, Yarden, was released, we prayed it was only a matter of time before the rest of the family would also be freed.

Then, the devastating news arrived—Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir had been murdered in Gaza. Our hearts shattered. As I watched the funeral, I found myself asking, “How does this happen in a civilized world? How are we to hold onto hope when a mother and her two young children are killed simply because of their nationality or religion?”

Grief washed over me, leaving me with an overwhelming sense of loss.

But then, I thought about ALYN Hospital—the extraordinary institution I have the honor of supporting and representing. ALYN is a place where children the same age as Ariel and Kfir receive care and healing. It is a place where Muslims and Jews, Arabs and Israelis, people of all backgrounds and languages, come together for a singular purpose: to help children in need. At ALYN, there is no division, no barriers—only the unwavering commitment to provide hope and healing to every child who needs it.

And so, even in the midst of this profound sorrow, I find hope. Hope that the spirit of ALYN—the spirit of compassion, unity, and humanity—will one day triumph over the forces of hatred and violence. Hope that, somehow, someday, the world will embrace the values that ALYN embodies, and that the darkness that stole Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir from us will be replaced by light.

Am Yisrael Chai!

YOUNG LEADERSHIP SHABBAT

CHANGE IN LOCATION & BRING A FRIEND

Come learn about Wheels of Love with Aviva Lavi:
Tuesday, March 4 at 6pm
Havana Ce ntra 151 W 4 6th St, NYC

With special thanks to Jeremy Merrin for again donating his restaurant for us to dive into the inspiring world of ALYN and Wheels of Love with future riders.

ALYN HOSPITAL PURIM CARDS!

There's still time to purchase ALYN Hospital Purim cards! Instead of sending a traditional mishloach manot basket, gift your family and friends with a donation to ALYN Hospital. You can order a pack of these beautiful cards – 12 cards for $36

Place your order today!

Wed, March 5 is the order deadline.
You can order a pack of these beautiful cards – 12 cards for $36.

The Start of Young Leadership

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:38:51 GMT

January 2025 Newsletter

We’re excited to announce that we are launching AFAH Young Leadership.

This exciting new initiative will help us raise awareness of the incredible work being done at ALYN Hospital with the young professional community. We also hope to engage more young people in the vital work of American Friends of ALYN Hospital.

We will hold several special events for this community in the coming months. These events will include special Shabbat dinners with community partners to help us raise awareness and identify individuals who want to become more involved with AFAH. Our initial target communities for this initiative will include New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Miami/South Florida, and Chicago.

We hope to create a national young professional committee.

Please let us know if you have any questions, want to provide input, or suggest any individuals we should include in this effort. You can reach Alex Bauman at alex@alynus.org .

Itay Helps IDF Amputees Put on Tefillin

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:37:07 GMT

January 2025 Newsletter

In collaboration between ALYN Hospital’s PELE Innovation Center and Sheba Medical Center, a device has been developed that brings renewed hope allowing upper limb IDF amputees to fulfill the Halachaly requirement to put on tefillin by themselves. This device not only empowers these heroes with a sense of independence but also reaffirms their spiritual connection and identity. It also highlights again how technology can profoundly impact lives by restoring cherished traditions and enhancing personal dignity.

(To see the original article in Ynet News The patent that helps IDF amputees put on tefillin)

The patent that helps IDF amputees put on tefillin

ALYN Hospital and Sheba Medical Center develop device enabling amputees to put on tefillin independently, meeting halachic standards; already helping injured soldiers, innovation restores dignity and accessibility; 'It gave me back my independence,' says one user A new patent unveiled at ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem helps amputees with one arm put on tefillin while adhering to halachic guidelines. The device secures the tefillin to the arm without needing an extra hand and has already been used by soldiers injured in combat.

Developed collaboratively with a team from Sheba Medical Center, the device addresses the unique challenges faced by amputees. Among those benefiting is Itay, a 26-year-old soldier who lost part of his right arm during operational activity. "I always dreamed of regaining full independence," he said. "Putting on tefillin, a daily ritual, became a challenge after my injury."

One of the biggest challenges for amputees putting on tefillin is not just wrapping the straps but ensuring precise placement on the arm as required by halacha," said Itay.

During his rehabilitation, ALYN Hospital introduced him to the new device. "I was skeptical at first, but I realized a team of professionals—engineers and occupational therapists—had developed a solution for people like me. They created a custom device that lets me hold the tefillin stably, despite my physical limitation," he explained.
Placing tefillin on the arm involves positioning the beit, the leather cube containing Torah verses, facing the heart, then wrapping the straps around the arm and middle finger. "This isn't just a technical fix; it restored my self-respect," Itay said. "I can now perform this daily mitzvah without relying on others."

He praised the team's dedication: "They listened, tested and refined the device until it worked perfectly for me. It proved that when we work together, there are no limits to what we can achieve."

"The initiative began when Sheba contacted us and told us about soldiers who were injured in combat, as well as civilians who were injured for various reasons, who have difficulty putting on tefillin themselves due to amputation or other limitations in their upper limbs," said Hila Borel, the director of the ALYN Hospital team.

"This is not an easy challenge. It is impossible to offer a uniform solution that fits everyone, since each injury is different in its structure and each person faces unique limitations. We understood that this was a real need that required an innovative and creative approach, one that required cooperation between different fields of knowledge such as rehabilitation, engineering and halachic law."

"We strive to enable anyone interested in putting on tefillin to do so independently, regardless of age or physical limitations. Beyond the technical aspect, this is a process that restores people's sense of control and self-respect, and this, for us, is the true meaning of success in such a project," she added.

Rabbi Zvi Porat, rabbi and halachic consultant at Sheba Medical Center and ALYN Hospital, added that "upper limb injuries raise complex halachic questions. For example, how do you put on hand tefillin when you don't have an elbow or arm to put on? What is the strong hand, and is the use of technological tools or specialized devices to fulfill the mitzvah possible according to halachah? Beyond that, there are also challenges in putting on head tefillin, when the patient has difficulty performing the action on their own."

According to him, "Every solution developed as part of the 'Yesh Le'aniach' event is designed to allow the patient to fulfill the mitzvah independently, without depending on others, while adhering to the requirements of halacha. I am happy that we were able to find creative solutions and adapt them personally, so that even those who thought they would not be able to put on tefillin on their own now have the opportunity to regain the ability to do so independently as they wish."

Einat Carmeli, director of the Sheba team, concluded: "At the event, we felt that we were not only developing technological solutions, but also giving people back something of their ability to be themselves. The challenge here was twofold: on the one hand, to find customized solutions that allow people with physical limitations to handle an action that requires delicate skill, and on the other, to maintain absolute fidelity to the halacha. For us, it is not just a technical solution, but also a mission."

January 2025 Newsletter

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 13:20:00 GMT

In this issue

ITAY HELPS IDF AMPUTEES PUT ON TEFILLIN

THE START OF YOUNG LEADERSHIP

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

January is often seen as a time for fresh starts. Many people set resolutions or seek ways to make positive changes in their lives and the lives of those around them.

At ALYN Hospital, we offer a new beginning of a different kind. We help our patients and their families navigate difficult circumstances and discover ways to improve their quality of life. For example, we assist children facing eating challenges and provide the tools and guidance they need to make meaningful progress. We are committed to empowering every patient we serve.

We all know that sticking to our New Year's resolutions can be challenging—our best intentions often become sidetracked. But at ALYN Hospital, there’s no such thing as giving up. Every day, our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff work tirelessly to ensure every patient receives the care and support they need to thrive. Our mission has no shortcuts; we are fully committed to each patient’s well-being.

Moreover, we don’t simply rely on past successes. ALYN is at the forefront of research, continually testing and implementing new treatments to ensure we provide the most effective and innovative care possible. This commitment to constant improvement means that every patient can access the best treatments available.

I hope you share my pride in the work being done at ALYN Hospital. Together, we help create and sustain new beginnings that transform lives.

ITAY HELPS IDF AMPUTEES PUT ON TEFILLIN

(To see the original article in Ynet News The patent that helps IDF amputees put on tefillin)

THE START OF YOUNG LEADERSHIP

We’re excited to announce that we are launching AFAH Young Leadership. This exciting new initiative will help us raise awareness of the incredible work being done at ALYN Hospital with the young professional community. We also hope to engage more young people in the vital work of American Friends of ALYN Hospital.

We hope to create a national young professional committee.

Please let us know if you have any questions, want to provide input, or suggest any individuals we should include in this effort. You can reach Alex Bauman at alex@alynus.org .

Join our WhatsApp

To help keep everyone updated on what is happening at AFAH and ALYN, we have created a WhatsApp community that will help streamline our efforts to communicate with you.

The patent that helps IDF amputees put on tefillin

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 23:45:32 GMT

Article By Ynet News

A new patent unveiled at ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem helps amputees with one arm put on tefillin while adhering to halachic guidelines. The device secures the tefillin to the arm without needing an extra hand and has already been used by soldiers injured in combat. ALYN Hospital and Sheba Medical Center develop device enabling amputees…

Finding Light and Hope at ALYN Hospital

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 13:41:38 GMT

December 2024 Newsletter

Stacy Wasserman spent 18 years of her career in Jewish education and now serves her community as a children’s advocacy coach. She has always been passionate about Jewish education and has dedicated her life to the betterment of the lives of children. As she toured ALYN Hospital this past summer, with the lens and heart of an educator and child advocate, she was moved by ALYN’s mission and the skill and commitment with which that mission is carried out to change the lives of children.

Stacy has shared her experience with us:

I had the opportunity to travel to Israel this past summer on the Wexner Foundation’s Heritage Program Israel Institute. While so much of the visit was filled with anxiety, trauma, sadness and yes, resilience, one shining beacon of hope stands out, and that was my visit to ALYN Children’s Hospital and our meeting with the amazing Dr. Maurit Beeri.

I have been reflecting upon this special visit a lot lately, especially as the seasons change and there is less and less light. When the darkness gets coupled with the heaviness of the world, I am comforted by the light I saw at ALYN.

As a child growing up in Metro Detroit, I learned about an Israel that aspired to be a place where, despite so many differences, everyone could find a home.

This is the Israel that I saw at ALYN Children’s Hospital. There I met a leader who was working day and night to push away darkness and preserve light. She passionately spoke of this aspirational Israel and shared how these ideals are carried out in this magical place. She also spoke of the real challenges that she and her team of passionate humans, from all walks of Israeli life, have faced to keep this vision alive for all these years and the way these challenges have increased exponentially since October 7. She assured us that they’d kept the darkness out, and then she showed us how they do it.

She showed us dedicated experts who not only, create and apply amazing new and innovative games, adaptive items, and holistic methods, they do it in a positive and peaceful environment, one where the singular goal is to change the trajectory of a child’s life. To change the trajectory of a child’s life. They do this for every child, every family, everyone they can. Complexity and all.

As Hanukkah approaches this year, and I look for ways to increase the light in the world, I think about ALYN Children’s Hospital, the ways I can replicate its spirit in my own world and ensure that it continues to bring healing to the people who live in the Land of Israel.

December 2024 Newsletter

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 11:54:45 GMT

In this issue

REI'S WHEELS OF LOVE JOURNEY

FINDING LIGHT AND HOPE AT ALYN HOSPITAL

MAKE YOUR YEAR-END GIFT

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

In the United States, December ushers in a season of celebration, a time when people from all walks of life and diverse faiths come together as friends and colleagues to share in the spirit of the holidays. For the Jewish community, this is also the time when we celebrate Hanukkah, a holiday that symbolizes dedication. Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the miraculous victory of the Jewish people in their three-year struggle against the Greeks.

Today, in Jerusalem, we continue to witness the power of dedication and miracles through the inspiring work being done at ALYN Hospital—Israel's leading pediatric rehabilitation center. Each day, there are stories of resilience and hope as children make incredible progress in overcoming significant challenges, whether congenital, due to illness, or the result of an accident. Regardless of the cause, one needs only to look at the faces of the children at ALYN to see the miracle of healing in action.

ALYN Hospital also embodies the spirit of unity that defines this time of year. The staff and patients come from diverse backgrounds: Jews and Muslims, secular and religious, young and old. It is a place where people set aside differences to work together on behalf of the children. As some have said, this is what peace in the Middle East will look like when it is finally achieved.

Then there is the greatest miracle of all: you, our supporters . It is truly extraordinary to see how thousands of people—from all over the USA—come together to support children in need half a world away.

For over 90 years, your generosity has played a pivotal role in enabling us to provide hope and healing to these children. Your unwavering support has made all the difference, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

Am Yisrael Chai. May 2025 be the year that brings us closer to peace.

REI’S WHEELS OF LOVE JOURNEY

Among the many cycling teams that participate in Wheels of Love, one stands out: the Swift & Bold . This year, one of the participants was Rei Levin, age 13, who was treated at ALYN for Perthes Disease, which affects the hip bone. Not only did Rei ride this year, but he also spoke and sang at the Wheels of Love closing ceremony.

FINDING LIGHT & HOPE AT ALYN HOSPITAL

This past summer, Stacy Wasserman, a Jewish educator and child advocate from Denver, spent time in Israel and found one of her trip’s highlights at ALYN Hospital. Stacy shares her experience with us, pointing to the effort and grace with which ALYN has “kept the darkness out” of the hospital in the post-October 7 world and embraced bringing light into the lives of the children treated there and their families.

WAYS TO MAKE YOUR YEAR-END GIFT

As the year draws to a close, there are several meaningful ways you can support ALYN Hospital's vital mission. However you choose to give, your generosity helps ensure we can continue providing essential care. To help you make the most of your year-end giving, we've outlined several convenient options that not only support our work but may also offer you valuable tax benefits as you plan your charitable contributions for the year.

Wishing you light and peace this Hanukkah.

From, The AFAH Board and Staff

Ways to Make Your Year-End Gift

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:11:14 GMT

December 2024 Newsletter

As the year draws to a close, there are several meaningful ways you can support ALYN Hospital's vital mission. Whether you're considering a direct donation through our website, gifting appreciated securities, contributing through a donor-advised fund, or making a qualified charitable distribution from your IRA, your generosity helps ensure we can continue providing essential care. To help you make the most of your year-end giving, we've outlined several convenient options that not only support our work but may also offer you valuable tax benefits as you plan your charitable contributions for the year.

DONATE DIRECTLY THROUGH THE WEBSITE

You can always make your year-end gift through our Donate Now link . Does your employer have a matching gift program? If it does, you may be able to double your donation!

GIVING APPRECIATED STOCKS, MUTUAL FUNDS OR BONDS

A gift of appreciated securities is a smart way to support ALYN’s mission and reduce your capital gains tax liability. Donating highly appreciated assets like stocks, mutual funds, and bonds to charity provides you with significant tax benefits, as you can deduct the full fair market value of assets held longer than one year. Israel Bonds can be donated as well by assigning the bond to ALYN Hospital.

Simply provide your broker with the following delivery instructions: DELIVERY INSTRUCTIONS

To discuss your tax-smart giving options, please contact Adam Schwartz, Executive Director: 212-869-8085, friends@alynus.org .

Rei's Wheels of Love Journey

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 13:38:00 GMT

December 2024 Newsletter

Among the many cycling teams that participate in Wheels of Love , one stands out: the Swift & Bold . This team is made up of current and former ALYN patients. It was originally the brainchild of one of ALYN Hospital's physiotherapists, who recognized that coordinating a therapeutic bike-riding group of children with physical disabilities would be an ideal way for these children to gain a sense of achievement and self-confidence.

This year, one of the participants was Rei Levin, age 13, who was treated at ALYN for Perthes Disease, a childhood hip disorder caused by a disruption of blood flow to the head of the femur. As a result, the head of the femur bone undergoes necrosis (death of the body tissue) and the shape of it changes. This may end in osteoarthritic pain. Perthes is sometimes treated with surgery to try reverse the damage or at least minimize it.

Rei underwent surgery at the Columbia Orthopedic Surgery Center in New York, under the expert care of Dr. Joshua Hyman. When he returned to Israel, he received rehabilitation services at ALYN, to strengthen the affected leg and work on his hip joint range of motion.

When it was time for Rei to be discharged, he was hesitant to leave ALYN’s care, so his therapists suggested that he join the Swift & Bold cycling team to continue his journey to recovery by engaging in a challenging physical activity within the folds of ALYN’s therapeutic model.

Generally, the highlight of the year is when the Swift & Bold team joins up with Wheels of Love bike ride on the final leg of the ride and they lead the hundreds of cyclists down the hill and into ALYN Hospital. This year, we experienced the bonus of having Rei speak AND perform a rousing edition of

The Swift & Bold Team is generously supported by Mrs. Sharon Chefitz in memory of her husband, Joel Chefitz z”l. The family has been a strong supporter of ALYN Hospital for many years. Joel was a Wheels of Love cyclist who was always motivated by the training undertaken by children in the Swift & Bold . In recognition of the value that participation in the Swift & Bold Team brings to its riders, Mrs. Chefitz has graciously agreed to a long-term commitment of support for this inspiring project. Todah rabah!

To highlight that the Wheels of Love world is a small place - Dr. Sharon Eylon, Head of Pediatric Orthopedic Services at ALYN, was able to share something truly amazing with Rei and his family – in 2016, Dr. Hyman had participated in Wheels of Love as well. What a remarkable full-circle moment. Perhaps next year Rei and Dr. Hyman will ride together!

Kol HaKavod to Rei, may he continue from strength to strength and may ALYN Hospital’s Swift & Bold team continue to train and inspire a new generation of Wheels of Love cyclists!

November 2024 Newsletter

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 11:43:05 GMT

In this issue

GIVING TUESDAY

WHEELS OF LOVE : 2024

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

 November: A Time for Gratitude

In the United States, November is a month dedicated to giving thanks—a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives.

Here at the American Friends of ALYN Hospital, this November has offered us even more reasons to express our gratitude. This year, we completed an incredible Wheels of Love Bike Ride in Israel, raising nearly $2.7 million , to date, to support the children at ALYN Hospital. For more details about this inspiring event, please see the article in this newsletter.

Participating in the ride also gave us the opportunity to visit ALYN Hospital and witness firsthand the remarkable impact of our collective efforts. It’s truly heartwarming to see the children’s joyful faces, even amid the challenges they face. There is an incredible warmth and resilience in each child we meet—an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Equally inspiring is the work happening behind the scenes at ALYN. Every day, ALYN’s dedicated team strives not only to maintain but to continually improve the level of care and support these children receive. Take, for example, the Helmsley Pediatric & Adolescent Rehabilitation Research Center (PARC) , where cutting-edge research is shaping the future of pediatric rehabilitation therapies. Then there is ALYNnovation , an initiative focused on co-developing innovative products and services to enhance patient care. Additionally, PELE provides customized, cost-effective solutions that empower children to live as independently as possible. And these are just a few examples of the many incredible projects underway at ALYN.

This past year has been nothing short of miraculous. Despite the ongoing challenges of war in the region, ALYN Hospital has continued to provide essential care for children every single day. Whether inpatient or outpatient, these critical services have remained uninterrupted. Families who were displaced from their homes have been able to rely on ALYN for the care they so desperately need—all thanks to the unwavering dedication of the ALYN staff.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I would like to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our donors. Your generosity makes it possible for ALYN to continue its vital work, and for that, we are truly grateful.

As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, please take a moment to think of the children at ALYN. Add their strength, courage, and progress to the many blessings you are thankful for this year.

AM YISRAEL CHAI.

GIVING TUESDAY

DECEMBER 3, 2024
CELEBRATING HOPE, HEALING & HISTORY

This Giving Tuesday we are focusing on Hope, Healing and History combining the celebration of American Friends of ALYN’s 90th anniversary, the hospital’s long history of compassionate care, and the hope that this provides to our patients and their families.

WHEELS OF LOVE: 2024

Wheels of Love 2024 took place from November 11-15. This year’s ride was held in memory of Yakir Hexter, z”l, who fell in battle in Gaza in January. In a tumultuous year when every other ride in Israel was cancelled, over 300 riders came together to support ALYN Hospital, to support the people of Israel, to support each other.

Sincerely, The AFAH Board and Staff

Wheels of Love 2024

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:33:07 GMT

November 2024 Newsletter

Wheels of Love 2024 took place from November 11-15. This year's ride honored the memory of Yakir Hexter, z"l, a beloved member of our community and former ride participant, who fell defending Israel in Gaza in January.

We had all spent months wondering “Will the ride happen?”, hearing that ride after ride scheduled in Israel had been cancelled this year. When we woke up Monday morning at Kibbutz Almog, the sun was shining and the joy was palpable – Wheels of Love 2024 was indeed happening!

Over 200 cyclists from 10 different countries set out on bicycles, and for the next four days we rode in the Dead Sea region. As usual, there were multiple routes: Road, Road Plus, Challenge, Touring, Trail and Enduro. For the first time this year, non-riding spouses of cyclists had the option of joining daily tours at off-the-beaten-path sites in the region.

Additionally, we had the honor of being joined by members of the Swift and Bold, a cycling team made up of current and former ALYN patients who joined us on tandem bicycles, handcycles, adapted bicycles and some on standard bikes. Notably, Mati Weiss, 17-years-old, who was treated at ALYN as a child, joined us on her handcycle. Mati has ridden with the Swift and Bold over the years for one or two days, but this year she participated for the full four days!

On Thursday, the final day of the ride, we were joined by an additional 100 one-day riders as well as the members of the Swift and Bold and rode in unison into ALYN Hospital, As we rode through the hospital entrance, we were greeted by the beaming faces of ALYN's children – the very reason we ride. Many of us became teary-eyed as these young patients placed medals around our necks. Their resilience reminds us why every mile, every hill, and every donation matters.

Due to COVID restrictions in previous years and the cancellation of the 2023 ride, this was the first time we have been able to experience the emotional finale of riding into the Hospital.

Wheels of Love has always offered its participants and volunteers the opportunity to ride for a cause – to be a part of something meaningful and impactful – supporting the amazing work that happens at ALYN Hospital. This year, we were fortunate to be able to celebrate so much more, beyond the power of doing something good; this year, we found strength and community and a true sense of klal Israel, unity and solidarity. Wheels of Love demonstrated that we are strongest when we come together.

For more on this year’s momentous ride, please read the following article from the Times of Israel.

Wheels of Love has already raised $2.6M for the children of ALYN Hospital. Help us reach our $3M goal. Every dollar brings us closer to giving another child the chance to walk, run, or even ride a bike for the first time. Join us in making these miracles possible.

Giving Tuesday

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 13:29:51 GMT

November 2024 Newsletter

DECEMBER 3, 2024
CELEBRATING HOPE, HEALING & HISTORY

This year, Giving Tuesday is on December 3. Giving Tuesday provides us with an opportunity to show that when our donors come together for good, small acts can create big change!

This year we are focusing on Hope, Healing and History combining the celebration of American Friends of ALYN’s 90th anniversary, the hospital’s long history of compassionate care, and the hope that this provides to our patients and their families.

ALYN Hospital’s Healing from Trauma program is a testament to ALYN’s strengths. ALYN’s unique multidisciplinary approach has made it an expert in treating children experiencing psychological trauma, which has become more prevalent in the wake of October 7 and the ongoing conflict.

Since October 7, ALYN Hospital has seen an increase in the number of patients with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a functional physical condition (i.e. pain, paralysis) without an organic cause that is brought about because of emotional distress. While the root cause is psychological, treatment must be a combination of mental health work as well as physical rehabilitation. The combination has been shown to be successful.

Given ALYN’s holistic approach, a child with FND can receive all the services needed in one place. ALYN has been treating FND for 15 years and is considered an expert. Many doctors will refer children to ALYN over other pediatric facilities as a result.

Dr. Emmanuel Kornitzer, Director of the Pediatric Rehabilitation and Day Hospitalization Departments at ALYN Hospital, recently published the following article on the topic: READ HERE

Learn more about the Healing from Trauma program and be ready to support our efforts to ensure that all the children at ALYN are receiving the best care possible.

Dedicated to fallen soldier, Wheels of Love charity bike ride crosses finish line again

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 23:43:56 GMT

Article By The Times of Israel

24th Annual benefit event for ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem, canceled last year in wake of October 7, held in honor of Sgt. First Class Yakir Hexter, a devoted volunteer. On a crisp and sunny November afternoon in Jerusalem, hundreds of bicycle riders wearing blue and white jerseys rolled through the finish line into the grounds…

October 2024 Newsletter

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 11:31:18 GMT

In this issue

SARAH’S AMAZING SUCCESS!

WH EELS OF LOVE ROOFTOP EVENT

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.

!חג סוכות שמח

Wishing you a joyous Sukkot!

From, The AFAH Board and Staff

Father of Hersh Goldberg-Polin rides through grief with ALYN Hospital

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:41:39 GMT

Article By The Jerusalem Post

In the weeks since, Polin has turned to one of his loves to clear his head: cycling. He’s also putting his pedal to good use as a rider in next month’s Wheels of Love charity cycling event to benefit the Alyn Hospital, a pediatric and adolescent rehabilitation center in Jerusalem.

Wheels of Love Rooftop Event

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:27:20 GMT

October 2024 Newsletter

On September 22, Aviva Lavi, Wheels of Love veteran, a former member of the ALYN Ride Committee, professional athlete, and an advocate for survivors of October 7 and the families of the hostages. spoke at a rooftop gathering hosted by longtime Wheels of Love participants and AFAH supporters, Joanne (Board Member) & Jeff Blye.

Aviva’s goal was to promote the Wheels of Love ride, 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.

Aviva shared how she found the Wheels of Love ride in 2010. She has ridden every year since – sometimes with the road group and sometimes off-road. She reminded us that, even though there is a war going on, the hospital is still functioning, life goes on, the ride is happening, and the children are counting on our support. She continued with an impassioned call to support ALYN Hospital – primarily through participation in Wheels of Love in Israel this November, or alternately by sponsoring a rider, donating to the hospital, or participating as a virtual rider.

Thank you, Aviva, for your beautiful words, your inspiration and your commitment to the children of ALYN Hospital.

Why do we support ALYN? In Aviva’s words, “ALYN is a very innovative place that makes miracles every day…and we all pray for miracles. Especially now.”

Sarah's Amazing Success!

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:23:49 GMT

October 2024 Newsletter

"She achieved things we didn’t think were possible.
Seeing her walk warmed our hearts.” – Abigail, Sarah’s mother.

The Story of a 4-Year-Old's Triumph Over Brain Cancer

After a long rehabilitation, Sarah is able to walk on her own, though accompanied by a portable ventilator; “She achieved things we never thought were possible,” the medical staff says.

When Sarah arrived at ALYN Rehabilitation Hospital a year ago, it was hard to believe she'd ever reach this moment—starting a new school year in kindergarten. But she did. Four-year-old Sarah had undergone brain surgery to remove a tumor and additional abdominal surgeries due to complications. She couldn’t walk or breathe on her own.

After spending the last year in hospitals, she recently began attending a rehabilitative kindergarten, accompanied by a portable ventilator. "It’s unbelievable what she’s been through," her mother, Abigail, said.

Sarah was born healthy and developed normally until she was two and a half. "She walked, talked, and was an active, social child," Abigail recalled. "Then one day, I noticed her walking was a bit clumsy, she was falling more often, and within days, she started vomiting and seemed tired and tearful."

When Sarah began to lose her balance, her parents rushed her to a pediatrician, who referred them to both an eye doctor and a neurologist. "Her vision test was fine, but the neurologist immediately suspected something was wrong and sent her for an MRI." The scan was done in the evening, and the results were read urgently. By the next morning, Sarah was in surgery. "They found a tumor attached to her brainstem, which was immediately life-threatening, so she had to have emergency surgery. We barely had time to process the news before we found ourselves anxiously waiting outside the operating room at Shaare Zedek Medical Center."

The surgery lasted over eight hours. When it was over, the doctors told Sarah’s worried parents that she was moving her limbs. She was transferred, still sedated and on a ventilator, to the pediatric intensive care unit. "From that critical moment, where we were expecting a long recovery, everything that could go wrong, did," said Abigail. "I don’t know exactly how it happened, but a complication led to a perforation in her esophagus, which resulted in four abdominal surgeries in a row at Hadassah Medical Center, where she was transferred for further care."

Abigail explained that Sarah developed a fungal infection and sepsis, a life-threatening response to a severe infection. "The doctors at Hadassah diagnosed necrosis in her intestines, leading to the removal of a large portion." Because of this, Sarah was fitted with a stoma (an artificial opening to allow waste to exit the body) and a PEG tube (a feeding tube placed in her abdomen to provide nutrition when swallowing is impaired).

"She had recurring bouts of pneumonia that required intensive care," Abigail said. "More than once, the doctors had to save her life. Who would have believed that my healthy, energetic little girl would leave the hospital at age three on a ventilator, with a feeding tube and a stoma?"

A year ago, Sarah was transferred to ALYN Hospital, a specialized rehabilitation center for children and teens. "She arrived here at age three, bedridden," said Dr. Eliezer Be’eri, ALYN’s Deputy Director and head of the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department. "The benign tumors in her brain and spine had damaged her respiratory center, meaning she couldn’t breathe on her own. She can breathe independently at times but still requires occasional external respiratory support." Throughout her rehabilitation, one of her parents was always by her side. "We also have a nine-year-old son at home, and we had to care for him too," Abigail noted. "Thankfully, we had volunteers who helped during this challenging time."

When Sarah first arrived at ALYN, she met with Meira Skuler, the head of physiotherapy in the respiratory department, for an initial assessment. "When I saw her, she was in bed, non-functional, and very withdrawn from the staff. The first step was building her trust," Skuler explained. Sarah’s long hospital stay, the painful blood tests, and various medical procedures had left her viewing caregivers as part of a group that caused her pain.

"Our first bridge to her was creating moments of joy in her mother’s presence," Skuler said. "I would sometimes do silly things to make her laugh. Once I eased her fear of people in uniforms, I started incorporating physical exercises through play while she was still lying down. For example, when we played card games, I would give her a card and ask her to pass it to her mom standing on the other side of the room."

Skuler added that they worked on transitions, like helping Sarah move from lying down to sitting, first with support and then without. Eventually, they moved her to the floor. As her motor skills improved, they increased the challenges in her rehabilitation. "Based on her progress, we kept pushing her forward, always monitoring her breathing with each new position."

The next step was getting Sarah into a standing frame that supported her hips and back. As she became more stable, she transitioned to a more advanced frame that allowed her to use her hands. "Standing helped her regain confidence in her own strength. Being able to move around gave her more freedom and helped her bond with the staff," Skuler said.

From the beginning of her rehabilitation, the team involved Sarah’s parents in every step, knowing they would need to perform medical tasks at home. "At first, I was terrified of draining her phlegm or connecting her to different machines," Abigail admitted. "But thanks to the instruction, patience, and support we received, I was able to set up a mini-hospital at home with a ventilator, suction machine, catheters, drainage tubes, feeding devices, and more." Abigail also expressed gratitude to her supportive Messianic community. "I’m Jewish, and I made aliyah from Finland in 2010. My husband, who is Christian, immigrated three years later. We built a family and are part of a community with members from different faiths," she explained.

At Sarah’s discharge, the medical team, who had supported her throughout the past year, were emotional. "She achieved things we didn’t think were possible. Seeing her walk warmed our hearts. She’s such a captivating child, but the one thing that saddens her is not being able to eat 'like the other kids in kindergarten.'"

A Rise in Functional Neurological Disorder Cases Since October 7

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 13:17:42 GMT

September 2024 Newsletter

Since the traumatic events of October 7 and the prolonged war since, ALYN Hospital has seen an increase in the number of patients with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a functional physical condition (i.e. pain, paralysis) without an organic cause that is brought about because of emotional distress. While the root cause is psychological, treatment must be a combination of mental health work as well as physical rehabilitation. The combination has been shown to be successful.

Given ALYN’s holistic approach, a child with FND can receive all the services he/she needs in one place. ALYN has been treating FND for 15 years and is considered an expert. Many doctors will refer children to ALYN over other pediatric facilities as a result.

Dr. Emmanuel Kornitzer, Director of the Pediatric Rehabilitation and Day Hospitalization Departments at ALYN Hospital, recently published the following article on the topic:

The Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND) in Children That Has Been on the Rise Since October 7
Dr. Emmanuel Kornitzer

Translated from https://healthy.walla.co.il/item/3662054

May 5, 2024

The child complains of pain and weakness, but the tests show no disease? They may have Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND), a syndrome in which physical problems occur following a mental health event. Against the background of the tense situation [in Israel], there has recently been an increase in diagnoses of this type.

FND is a well-known phenomenon among adults and youngsters, some of whom come to us for treatment at The ALYN Pediatric and Adolescent Rehabilitation Hospital .

Functional Neurologic Disorder is a condition that mimics a neurological disease but without any injury to the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. Instead, it is a state of emotional or mental stress that causes symptoms resembling a neurological disorder. Various symptoms may appear, such as weakness, paralysis of limb(s), sensory disturbances, sudden blindness, tremors, seizures, and more. As a result, there is severe impairment of daily functioning, such as an inability to walk and perform basic functions like dressing, bathing, and eating independently. The phenomenon occurs in pre-adolescent children (8-10), with a higher prevalence in adolescence, and the degree of severity of functional decline varies from child to child.

The cause of this phenomenon, as mentioned, is a state of emotional or mental stress that manifests through physical symptoms. During the COVID-19 restrictions, many people were in a state of stress, and in Israel, as in the rest of the world, there was an increase in mental health issues and referrals to mental health systems, according to reports by the Ministry of Health. Similarly, an increase has been observed in FND cases since October 7.

To diagnose this phenomenon, it is first necessary to rule out neurological or other organic diseases that can cause these symptoms. It is important to see a doctor and undergo tests, including blood tests and occasionally imaging (CT or MRI). Often, after the tests come back normal and the doctor diagnoses FND, it is still difficult for the family to accept that there is no organic (physical) disease despite the neurological symptoms. Families move from one hospital to another and from doctor to doctor to continue searching for an organic diagnosis. The problem is that as time passes, the symptoms become more fixed. Additionally, the medical system and the patient's environment may sometimes convey disbelief or even accusations of pretense to the teenager. This, of course, is not the case: these children do not pretend or lie—physically, they really feel paralyzed or have a movement disorder.

Since the events of October 7, there has been a further increase in the number of people dealing with FND. Recently, a child was hospitalized with us who experienced a stressful encounter (firsthand) with a courier who came to his home. His parents asked him not to open the door, but the messenger insisted. The boy opened the door, holding a knife behind his back. That stressful experience, against the background of the security situation in Israel, deeply affected him. Within a day of the incident, the boy felt weakness in his legs and developed an inability to bear weight on them, and since then he has not been able to walk without support.

Stressful situations that cause FND can also happen due to experiences such as a difficult parental divorce or a serious illness of a close family member. Such stressful situations also occur at school. An example of this is a boy with complete paralysis of the lower extremities who was referred to us after undergoing a comprehensive initial examination in a hospital and ruling out neurological disease. During psychological treatment that the boy received with us, it was found that he had been bullied at school.

Another condition that can cause FND is one-time or ongoing sexual abuse. Unfortunately, these cases are not uncommon among children and adolescents.

However, it is important to note that this usually does not happen because of a single, sudden event, but rather different and ongoing stressors of varying intensities that cause the child to develop FND.

To this day, we do not fully understand why the phenomenon occurs in one teenager and not in another, given the same significant stress. It may be related to personality structure, background anxiety, and even characteristics of physical sensitivity.

Above all, it is important to understand that there are successful treatments for this phenomenon. Sometimes emotional therapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy) or psychiatric therapy (e.g., when accompanied by significant anxiety or depression) is sufficient. Usually, and especially when the functional impairment is significant, there is a great advantage in being treated by a professional team who take care of both body and mind. At ALYN, we have been treating these cases for years through multi-disciplinary teamwork that includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, doctors, and, if necessary, psychiatrists.

In conclusion, the current situation in Israel is causing an increase in cases of FND. It is important to understand that functional neurological disorders are real conditions and are not "imaginary." Youngsters suffering from FND often undergo lengthy and unnecessary medical diagnostic evaluations, or alternatively, many times the child is not believed and even suspected of "pretending" or "making it up" (especially if the symptoms are inconsistent or changing)—which exacerbates the phenomenon due to lack of treatment, as well as causing additional significant emotional damage to the child. These disorders result in prolonged absences from school and often social distancing. The goal of the treatment is to return the child to full and normal functioning within their family, school, and activities as soon as possible.

***

The author is the Director of the Pediatric Rehabilitation and Day Hospitalization Departments at ALYN Hospital and part of the Clinic for CRPS and Functional Somatic Disorders

September 2024 Newsletter

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:14:35 GMT

In this issue

A RISE IN FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER CASES SINCE OCTOBER 7

THE AFAH TEAM WELCOMES ALEXANDER BAUMAN, DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I write this month’s message during the month of Elul, a time when we begin to prepare for the High Holidays by reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the year ahead. While we recognize this year has been marked by both sorrow and pain, we can also find the positives for which we can be grateful. ALYN Hospital’s lifechanging work ranks highly among the positives.

I write this month’s message during the month of Elul, a time when we begin to prepare for the High Holidays by reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the year ahead.

What a year this past year has been. Beginning with the horrors of the Hamas-led attacks on October 7 and the subsequent war, the people of Israel have endured so much pain and suffering. Here in the US, we have seen a scary rise in antisemitism, especially on our college campuses.

However, there is also so much to be grateful for. The work being done at ALYN Hospital is one of those things. Every day, no matter how bad the situation might be, ALYN is providing lifechanging therapies and rehabilitation services to hundreds of children, changing their lives for the better. Not only did ALYN provide its ongoing level of service, but the hospital also pivoted, partially through the efforts of the staff and volunteers at PELE, to adapt to the changing situation. Support is being provided to children who have been evacuated from their homes and to soldiers who have been injured as they work to protect the people of Israel.

This year, on September 27, we celebrate 90 years since the creation of American Friends of ALYN Hospital. We will use this anniversary to celebrate our 90 years of supporting the rehabilitative journeys of so many children and begin the process of looking forward to the decade ahead when we will celebrate 100 years in existence.

Thank you to each of you who has given generously in support of AFAH and, as a result, have enabled us to make a major difference for so many. Without your support, none of this could happen.

As we turn to the celebration of the High Holidays, may we join in prayer for health, happiness, prosperity, and peace.

Am Yisrael Chai!

A RISE IN FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER CASES SINCE OCTOBER 7

Dr. Emmanuel Kornitzer, Director of the Pediatric Rehabilitation and Day Hospitalization Departments at ALYN Hospital, recently published the following article on the topic:

THE AFAH TEAM WELCOMES ALEXANDER BAUMAN, DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to our American Friends of ALYN team, Alexander Bauman, who joins us as our Development Associate. With his extensive experience in community engagement, donor relations, Israel advocacy and client education, Alex is poised to make a significant impact on our mission.

WHEELS OF LOVE 2024: UPDATE

We are less than two months away from our 24th annual Wheels of Love ( WOL) ride to benefit the children of ALYN Hospital! This year’s ride is scheduled November 11-14 and has been dedicated to the memory of Yakir Hexter, z” l, a WOL cyclist who was killed in action fighting in Gaza.

We are hoping to be able to ride in Israel this November. However, due to the continuing hostilities in the Middle East, we are also offering alternative ways to support the children of ALYN Hospital.

May this year bring peace and celebration.

From, AFAH Board and Staff

The story of a 4 year-old’s triumph over brain cancer

s.butler@levitateapp.com (S Butler) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 23:39:19 GMT

Article By Ynet News

After a long rehabilitation Sarah is able to walk on her own, though accompanied by a portable ventilator; ‘She achieved things we never thought were possible,’ medical staff says. When Sarah arrived at Alyn Rehabilitation Hospital a year ago, it was hard to believe she’d ever reach this moment—starting a new school year in kindergarten. But…

The AFAH Team Welcomes Alexander Bauman, Development Associate

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:20:43 GMT

September 2024 Newsletter

Alex's connection and commitment to Israel is evident in his experience leading an educational trip to the country. He guided 30 participants throughout Israel for 15 days, conducting educational tours and lectures. This hands-on experience demonstrates his deep understanding of Israel's significance and his ability to share that knowledge with others – a perfect fit for our organization's mission.

We are confident that Alex's diverse skill set, passion for community engagement, dedication to Israel, and commitment to making a difference will greatly benefit American Friends of ALYN.

"I am most excited to see the real-time impact of my work; during the interview process, what stood out to me was how impactful the role is," Alex said.

Alex can be reached at alex@alynus.org . We look forward to the positive contributions he will make in supporting ALYN Hospital's mission to provide the highest quality care to children with disabilities in Israel.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Alex as he begins this new chapter with our organization.

August 2024 Newsletter

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:29:31 GMT

In this issue

SPOTLIGHT: THE CHALEM FAMILY - M’DOR L’DOR

HUMOR IN THERAPY

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Did you know that August is National Make-A-Will Month ? Everyone needs a will, and there’s no better time than now to find some peace of mind in planning for the future. Making a will gives you the opportunity to create a legacy – without costing you anything during your lifetime.

While you’re writing your will, you can join the amazing people who have already helped ALYN Hospital by including legacy gifts in their wills.

Everyone needs a will, and there’s no better time than now to find some peace of mind in planning for the future. Making a will gives you the opportunity to create a legacy – without costing you anything during your lifetime.

While you’re writing your will, you can join the amazing people who have already helped ALYN Hospital by including legacy gifts to ALYN. A planned gift from your estate to ALYN Hospital will ensure the long-term financial well-being of ALYN so that the hospital can continue to provide best-in-class therapies and remain at the forefront of technology-based solutions.

As a show of gratitude for this generous gesture, we award immediate recognition by means of placing a leaf on our symbolic Tree of Life. Planting a tree is a symbol of planning for future growth.

There are many options to leave a legacy for ALYN Hospital. To learn more about creating a legacy gift, visit our website to start your Legacy Planning or contact me, Adam Schwartz, by email: adam@alynus.org or at 212-869-8085.

What a wonderful opportunity to ensure the success of future generations of ALYN children!

LEARN MORE ABOUT LEAVING A LEGACY

SPOTLIGHT: THE CHALEM FAMILY - M’DOR L’DOR

The Chalem family (Marilyn, their daughter Vanessa and Gilbert) has a long history of supporting ALYN Hospital – with their hearts and their feet! When Vanessa was a child, she was moved by her father’s trips to Israel to participate in the Wheels of Love bike ride - the emotional stories and the pictures he’d share. His value of challenging oneself to make a difference in the world was passed on to Vanessa, and she has now become an avid supporter of ALYN Hospital and a participant in Wheels of Love rides as well. This summer, the Chalem family visited ALYN together, reinforcing their own commitment to the hospital.

HUMOR IN THERAPY

ALYN Hospital offers each child a comprehensive medical plan, integrating various specialist clinics for efficient care. To enhance treatment effectiveness, ALYN emphasizes “fun” therapy methods, transforming treatment into “play” rather than “work”. This approach includes Clown Therapy, introduced at ALYN in 2005, which has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, making the children more receptive to their treatment.

In Israel, now, more than ever, the opportunity to laugh and be silly is happily welcomed and much needed. Ariel Keren, one of ALYN Hospital’s Medical Clowns, writes about the importance of humor in wartime.

WHEELS OF LOVE: 2024

Are you looking for a way to show your support for the people of Israel and the children of ALYN Hospital? Then join the 160 riders already registered for Wheels of Love 202 4 , in memory of Yakir Hexter, z”l. The ride is taking place November 11-14 and will explore the Dead Sea region of Israel. We promise this year will be meaningful and memorable.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

New this year for Wheels of Love, we are now offering a grant to cover the registration fees for interested participants ages 25-35 from the US and Mexico,. The Roee Negri Memorial Grant is a tribute to the leadership and heroism displayed by IDF Major Roee Negri, z”l, killed on action on October 7.

A backpack and a ventilator: Little Rachel’s first day of preschool – opinion

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 23:37:30 GMT

Article By The Jerusalem Post

After a year of intense rehabilitation, four-year-old Rachel, who survived a brain tumor and multiple surgeries, is ready for her first day of preschool, complete with her ventilator. Four-year-old Rachel is excited to go to the first day of preschool. The lively, talkative, big-eyed child is running around showing everyone her new pink backpack and…

From Start-Up Nation to Healthcare Innovation

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 23:42:41 GMT

Article By Jewish Chicago

Engineering breakthrough healthcare at PELE ALYN Hospital Pediatric & Adolescent Rehabilitation Center in Jerusalem serves children with congenital and acquired physical disabilities, regardless of religion or ethnic background. The hospital is best known for its use of cutting-edge technologies and novel methodologies, constantly elevating the standards of care provided to its young patients.

Humor in Therapy

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:10:33 GMT

August 2024 Newsletter

Laughter in Wartime: "Humor is the healthiest part of the soul"

For the past ten years, I have been working as a medical clown at ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem, and on this fascinating journey I discovered a few things about human resilience, which comes from laughter and humor. Hospitalization and wars have quite a bit in common. There is fear, there is uncertainty, there is a reality that has changed, there is a lack of control over the situation, there is loneliness and there are painful memories. The routine of life is upended, and you have to deal with limitations.

The medical clowns with the red nose arrive at hospitals routinely, and try to interact with and get through to patients with curiosity and with the help of humor. It really helps me to do goofy magic and juggle the art of slapstick (for example: walking into a pole, or slipping and falling), and also to improvise stories, in that I start a story, but I have no idea how it will end.

After establishing a positive relationship with the patient and his family, there is a desire to restore the experience of control to him and them. For example, the patient or his family is allowed to decide which song to play, which game to play, any idea or action, which detaches even for a moment from the less pleasant reality in the present - it is excellent, as long as it comes from the patient or his family.

In order to understand the meaning of detachment from harsh reality with humor, imagine a week-long family vacation abroad. For many, during such a week there are quarrels in the car, maybe the hotel is disappointing - because it looks different than we expected it to be, and on the day of the main attraction, it rains and the weather is stormy.

However, a few years after this family vacation, when we flip through the photo album and go back to memories of the family vacation, we will remember mostly happy pictures. Most of us will tell about a fun experience; and even the less positive information, we will remember fondly and with a smile: "Remember it was rainy on the day of the amusement park, and Dad didn't notice that he was stepping in a huge puddle and getting all wet.... Haha. Then we went to a weird restaurant with neon lights, and drank nasty chocolate, haha" and laugh about it.

This is an example that illustrates the role of medical clowns in war. In the face of someone who has experienced terrible trauma, we would like to remove him from the incomprehensible reality even for a few moments, and remind him that this reality is not routine, because the routine is quite good and has pleasant experiences.

While it is difficult, almost impossible, to see the good in the pain, there is a place for laughter and humor as effective methods of revealing the light at the end of the tunnel of pain. When people smile, they convey to the world and to their bodies that they are in a calm and safe place, in an inclusive place, in a place where you can let go of inhibitions and even feel childish. It is important to plant even one happy and positive memory in the traumatic memory of those days.

Small children feel the whole spectrum of emotions with great intensity, directly from the heart. In each and every one of us there is a sweet and charming and healthy child inside. If we laugh like children, we will make the biggest leap towards healing.

My grandfather Shmuel spent three years in Auschwitz. In hell on earth for almost 1,000 days. If you open and read his memoir, you will find a lot of humor. A different view of reality. He accurately described everything he went through and how he lost his entire family, including his wife and child, but he wrote the book not from a place of defeat or depression, but from a place of triumph, heroism and survival. The humor in Holocaust memoirs is so powerful because it shows that an enemy can defeat the body and deny freedom, but cannot defeat the soul. Humor is the healthiest part of the soul.

Everyone can make people happy and laugh.

I want to reveal a secret. The medical clown's red nose may help, maybe it helps progress, maybe it makes things easier, but it's not the main thing. You don't really need it. Each and every one of us can make people happy, make them laugh, show support, empower, do good in the world, love, be there for the other – all to give an empowering moment in the midst of the trauma.

I'll end with a story with a moral to it; Father and son were hiking in the desert. Suddenly, the son fell and was injured, and shouted: "Ahhh." He heard "Ahhh" in the distance. The son shouted back: "Who is this?" and heard: "Who is this?" The son shouted: "Enough, you're annoying" and heard back: "You're annoying," and became sad.

The father managed to go down the slope and reach his son, who said, "Dad, there's someone here who is annoying and imitating me and making me sad." The father responded, "You're a champion." They both heard back: "You're a champion." The father added, "I love you," and they heard back, "I love you." The father looked at his son and explained: "It's called an echo, and echoes are just like life. They pay you back for what you say and do. If you want more smiles and love in the world, spread more smiles and love around." May we will know better days than these, and may we not forget to be happy and rejoice.

Written by Ariel Keren, a medical clown from the Dream Doctors Association, known as the medical clown Slinky, December 2023

Spotlight: The Chalem Family - M'dor L'dor

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 17:58:50 GMT

August 2024 Newsletter

This summer, I returned to ALYN Hospital with my parents, Gilbert and Marilyn Chalem. Together, we witnessed the impressive advancements in pediatric rehabilitation technology. The tour we received highlighted the hospital’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children with disabilities, showcasing innovative prosthetics and cutting-edge rehabilitation techniques.

My family has supported ALYN for many years. My father has participated in several ALYN Wheels of Love rides, and he passed that passion onto me. I have now become a strong advocate of the ride, participating in both Israel and US events in recent years.

As a family, we have been profoundly touched by the stories of children whose lives have been transformed by the hospital. These stories are the driving force behind our continued support of this extraordinary institution.

After the visit, my father sent this in a heartfelt thank you note to the ALYN staff:

“It was truly a pleasure and an honor to visit ALYN and witness once again the incredible work being done for the children. We were all amazed by the dedication and hard work of everyone at ALYN, and we sincerely congratulate you on the wonderful job you do. We are deeply touched by the profound impact the hospital has on the lives of so many children and their families.”

To make the visit even more meaningful, I joined the ALYN Night Hike in July, an overnight experience in the Judean Desert. For me, taking part in the hike was a unique and memorable birthday gift. Despite the challenges of trekking through the night, I found the experience rewarding and motivating, driven by a shared commitment to ALYN’s mission. The camaraderie and energy among the hikers made the night hike unforgettable. I am already looking forward to next year’s night hike and the upcoming November Wheels of Love event. See you there!

July 2024 Newsletter

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:26:40 GMT

In this issue

PELE CELEBRATES 5 YEARS OF SOLUTIONS

SPOTLIGHT: ALISA'S VISIT TO ALYN HOSPITAL

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

It gives me a tremendous amount of pride to share the following story from one of my daughters who recently returned from visiting ALYN Hospital after spending six weeks as a volunteer in Israel. It is very exciting to see how much she learned about the hospital in a short, 2 ½ hour visit.

SPOTLIGHT ON ALISA'S VISIT

I went to ALYN a few weeks ago, at the end of my six-week volunteer trip to Israel. I was coming off a high, having finally had the chance to help my country while it is at war. I did not think anything would be able to match that high, but my visit to ALYN only pushed that high, higher.

My father, Adam Schwartz, is the director of American Friends of ALYN Hospital so I knew a bit about ALYN prior to my visit. From the start to the end of my visit, I was met with a warmth and friendliness that airs throughout the hospital. The staff and patients truly emit joy. Everyone is always smiling. The building is filled with colorful decorations and cheer.

PELE CELEBRATES 5 YEARS OF SOLUTIONS

The PELE track of the Innovation Space at ALYN Hospital opened its doors in 2018 and recently celebrated its 5th year of developing personalized adaptive solutions to increase the independence of children with disabilities. Happy anniversary to the PELE team for some amazing accomplishments!

S HARE YOUR ALYN STORY: CALLING ALL PAST VOLUNTEERS!

We are reaching out to all the amazing individuals who have volunteered at ALYN Hospital in the past. Your dedication and generosity have played a crucial role in the lives of the children and families we serve. Now, we want to hear from you!

We would love to hear your story. Whether it’s a memorable moment, a challenge you overcame, or a lesson you learned, your experiences are invaluable. Sharing your story can inspire others and highlight the incredible impact of our volunteer community.

If you are willing to share your story with the ALYN community, please get in touch with us. You can email us at friends@alynus.org with a brief overview of your experience, and we will follow up with you for more details. Your story may be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on our website.

Thank you for being a part of the ALYN family and for making a difference!

REGISTER NOW FOR WHEELS OF LOVE IN ISRAEL: NOVEMBER 11-14, 2024

Registration is open for the 24th annual Wheels of Love ride in memory of Yakir Hexter z"l benefitting the children of ALYN Hospital. This year’s ride will take place in the beautiful Dead Sea region, ending with our traditional emotional finish at ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem. As always, there will be multiple on- and off-road options from which to choose.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

Spotlight: Alisa's Visit to ALYN Hospital

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:45:41 GMT

July 2024 Newsletter

One of the big values at ALYN is diversity, but they do not just preach about it. Their staff and patients truly demonstrate this. Starting the tour, we went through a waiting room that contained people from all backgrounds. There was a nun, a Muslim family, and a Hasidic family. Their ability to exist peacefully and put the patients first, especially in this war time, is a testament for how we should and could be in the broader world.

ALYN Hospital is one-of-a-kind. They have state of the art facilities that allow them to cater to each child's individual needs and even have fun while doing so. Virtual Reality games are being used for therapy. A motion lab is there to analyze movements to allow for better, more accurate treatments. There is a walking area with all different types of surfaces (stone, grass, pebbles, rubber like in playgrounds, etc.) that allow children to practice moving in many ways they may encounter outside. Who knew that playing air hockey could be used for therapy, but finding creative ways to get kids standing and moving is part of ALYN’s fun therapeutic innovation.

In addition to a facility that brings fun and joy to treatment, the staff provide a holistic approach to each patient. Rather than schlep to five different medical professionals, children can see them all in one place. They also get to be treated by a comprehensive team, one that is collaborating to figure out the best treatments they can provide individually and as a team. This allows for greater success because they are focusing on the whole child, not just one aspect of them. They will use music and entertainment (like bringing in clowns to perform) in addition to the typical treatments to address children’s greater needs.

ALYN also brings the entrepreneurial spirit that is so strong throughout Israel into the hospital with two programs: PELE and ALYNnovation. PELE is a program that allows the hospital staff to create solutions for problems that individual patients may have. This could be creating a robot that helps a child feed themselves. It could also be building a bed specific to a patient’s needs. With the war, this has also allowed ALYN to help wounded soldiers with things like a custom boot to keep them warm without irritating an injury or creating a practice machine that allows a soldier to regain the strength and proper movements to be able to pull a gun trigger. Like PELE, ALYNnovation provides solutions to patient problems, but it does so on a larger scale. ALYNnovation partners with entrepreneurs to create solutions to general problems. One example is an application that was made to help users learn how to operate an electric wheelchair. Patients who need an electric wheelchair must qualify to get one. Part of qualifying is proving they know how to drive it, which they could not previously do due to lack of access to electronic wheelchairs. Now they can learn to drive and prove their knowledge with this ALYNnovation creation. Doing things like this allows children to succeed and you can see the positive effect of this by the smile on their faces and their unwavering determination.

ALYN works tirelessly to provide their patients, and their families, the best possible experience. They not only treat their patients for their current needs but also help prepare them for the future so that they may live on their own and achieve anything. A LYN takes the “dis” out of disability by showing that with the proper help, anyone can achieve what they aspire to.

PELE: Personalized Equipment Leading to Empowerment Celebrates 5 Years of Solutions

davida@alynus.org (Davida Popik) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 17:42:17 GMT

July 2024 Newsletter

The PELE track at ALYN Hospital’s Innovation Space offers personalized, cost-effective solutions for children facing physical challenges in their daily lives. PELE creates custom technological innovations to enhance children's independence, supporting them in areas such as mobility, seating, communication, gaming, recreation, independent feeding and bathing.

The expert staff at PELE has at its disposal a fully equipped workshop including 3D printers, a laser-cutter, metal soldering, a carpentry area, an electronics room, and more. Since PELE opened its doors in 2018, it has developed over 800 solutions (143 in 2023 alone)!

Among the solutions the staff has created are the following:

Mechanical game of "memory" or "snakes & ladders" controlled by an eye-tracking system so that a child who is paralyzed can play with other children
Pool slide for children who use wheelchairs
Arm that can hold a lollipop (or other small food item) that is controlled by a light switch, allowing a child with little muscle control to independently bring the lollipop to her mouth to lick it
Arm that can hold a lollipop (or other small food item) that is controlled by a light switch, allowing a child with little muscle control to independently bring the lollipop to her mouth to lick it
360-degree camera for a child who is paralyzed to be able to see all around her through a tablet
Colorful, musical hand sanitation device to encourage children to sanitize their hands
Mechanism to prevent teen who uses a powered wheelchair from falling onto the sidewalk
Glove to maintain an angle between the hand and the wrist so that children with CP can maintain their grip on bike handlebars

The solutions developed are also accessible to children, parents and therapists world-wide via a dedicated open-source global platform on the internet and through its catalogue , which is available in Hebrew, English and Arabic.

Since October 7, PELE has been active creating solutions for children whose families have been evacuated from the North and the South of the country, as well as for soldiers and young adults injured in the attacks of October 7th and the ensuing war.

To learn more about PELE, please watch this video, which was put together in celebration of this milestone 5th anniversary.

June 2024 Newsletter

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 04:08:02 GMT

In this issue

REFLECTIONS ON ALYN IN A POST-OCTOBER 7 WORLD

SPOTLIGHT: PAUL & KAREN MEDEIROS

REFLECTIONS ON ALYN

IN A POST-OCTOBER 7 WORLD

When I visited ALYN Hospital a few weeks ago, I went with the hope of learning how to answer the questions that I get asked most frequently by members of our ALYN community: “How is the hospital doing since October 7? What has changed there?”

SPOTLIGHT: PAUL & KAREN MEDEIROS

Paul and Karen Medeiros have always had a passion for helping others, particularly children with disabilities. Their journey as advocates and supporters began early in life and took a transformative turn with their involvement in ALYN Hospital's Wheels of Love ride.

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER! DON’T MISS OUT ON WHEELS OF LOVE: USA!

There is still time to register for Wheels of Love: USA, this year in the Princeton area, June 23. Join us for either a 38- or 63-mile ride or a 2.25 family-friendly loop, starting in Skillman Park and heading out along beautiful backroads. Don’t miss out on a day of fun, challenging cycling, the chance to spend time with family and friends, and most of all, pedaling for a purpose – the children of ALYN Hospital.

עם ישראל חי

Spotlight: Paul & Karen Medeiros

davida@alynus.org (Davida Popik) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 17:39:08 GMT

June 2024 Newsletter

The Early Years and Meeting Joe Green

Paul and Karen met at the tender age of 14 at Sunday School, where their shared values and love for community service started to blossom. A pivotal figure in their lives was Pastor Joe Green, who has been their friend for over 45 years. Joe's influence and Paul’s parents’ friendship with Joe’s brother Larry Green, who worked with kids with Down's Syndrome in a group home, deeply impacted Paul. He developed a special bond with one boy, Charlie, which sparked his lifelong commitment to helping children with disabilities.

Discovering Wheels of Love (WOL)

On June 16, 2016, Paul read two articles that would change his life. One detailed a vandalized church in Sharon, MA, which had been targeted for supporting Israel and hosting a Jerusalem Day celebration. The community's resilience in the face of hate-inspired Paul. The other article was about Joe Green's participation in the Wheels of Love ride, a charity event benefiting children with disabilities at ALYN Hospital in Israel. Intrigued and motivated, Paul reached out to Joe Green and decided to join the ride in 2017 .

A Life-Changing Experience

Paul's first WOL ride in 2017 was supposed to be with Joe, but due to other travel commitments, Joe had to bow out prior to the event. Despite this setback, Paul embarked on the journey alone. The ride was grueling, both physically and emotionally. He struggled daily but persevered, driven by the thought of the children at ALYN who push themselves every day to improve their lives. "It was a life-changing experience," Paul reflected. "The least I could do was push myself, too."

Renewed Purpose and Building Precious Warriors Foundation

Before discovering WOL, Paul felt lost, lonely, and unaccepted. He knew he had something to offer society but couldn't find his place. The ride reignited his passion for helping kids and gave him a sense of belonging. Accepted by the other riders and staff, he found a community where he could make a difference.

Karen joined Paul as a volunteer in 2018, and together, they continued to participate in WOL rides, forming lasting friendships and cherishing the emotional moments at the end of each ride. Inspired by their fundraising efforts for ALYN, they realized they could do more locally. In 2019, they emptied their savings, hired the best non-profit lawyer in Rhode Island, and founded the Precious Warriors Foundation , which officially launched in 2020. Their foundation aims to make a global impact on children's medical care, by providing medical equipment and funding surgeries starting with efforts in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Israel, and Pakistan.

Continuous Support and Fundraising Efforts

Paul and Karen work year-round to support ALYN Hospital. Their annual Bowl-A-Thon, which just celebrated its fifth year, has raised over $30K for ALYN. The event has grown, attracting more than 100 participants and raising over $5K this year alone. They hope to expand it further to involve the local Jewish community, with the next event themed around Star Wars on May 4, 2025.

The Draw of ALYN Hospital

Paul and Karen are deeply moved by how ALYN Hospital operates. Paul appreciates the unity among the riders and the hospital's innovative approach to improving children's lives. "There is so much lopsided news out there about Israel, and there is no mention of the unity that does exist. I have felt no barriers because I’m not Jewish. The other riders have accepted me; they appreciate me. They treat me like family ."

Karen is drawn to the hospital's unique approach to family and patient care. "They bring the family together in a way US hospitals don’t. Knowing that the kids are getting the care they need and seeing their happiness, even though we can’t imagine what they are going through, and yet they greet you with a smile."

A Bright Future

The WOL ride renewed Paul's sense of purpose at a time when he felt directionless. It opened him up to new possibilities, made him more outgoing, and solidified his and Karen's dedication to supporting children with disabilities. Their Precious Warriors Foundation is still in its infancy, but with their passion and commitment, they aim to make a global impact on children's medical care, one step at a time.

Paul and Karen Medeiros' journey is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the difference one can make when driven by passion and purpose. Their story inspires others to find their place, embrace their potential, and contribute to a greater cause.

Reflections on ALYN in a Post-October 7 World

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 17:35:21 GMT

June 2024 Newsletter

I learned so much in face-to-face meetings with the heads of many of ALYN’s world-renowned departments. They all shared stories of having to unexpectedly adapt to a new environment. Many staff members were called to the reserves for military duty, others had spouses and partners who were called up, and given the large number of Arab employees, there were those who had family living in Gaza.

ALYN’s impressive history of fostering and serving as a model for cultural competency and inclusion was being tested. As they worked to support their employees and maintain a fragile peace, many departments were unsure how to move forward. The administration moved quickly to establish guidelines for appropriate language and behavior and instituted or enforced rules meant to limit confrontation.

What struck me most in my conversations is the nature of some of the cases the therapists and doctors have been seeing since the war began. While we may not be treating the children attacked in the Gaza border communities on October 7, or now those possibly injured while living in northern Israel, under constant fire from Hezbollah, I began to understand how close ALYN is to being a front-line facility. The work happening there to treat, heal and serve children and soldiers affected by the war makes them so. What do I mean? For example, the stress of the war and the fear and worry it has created has resulted in an increase in patients in the Feeding Rehabilitation Clinic whose feeding disorders have been exacerbated by the rise in stress levels.

There has also been an increase in children with conversion disorder--a functional physical condition (i.e. pain, paralysis) without an organic cause that is brought about because of emotional distress. While the root cause is psychological, it has been shown that for treatment to be successful it must be a combination of mental health work and physical rehabilitation. Given ALYN’s holistic approach, a child with conversion disorder can receive all the services needed in one place. ALYN has been treating conversion disorders for 15 years and is considered an expert in the field.

We have shared with you past articles about the work ALYN is doing for children with disabilities who live in border communities and have been evacuated from their homes into temporary housing. Many of these children need adaptive equipment that they had in their homes and/or the availability of remote therapies, both of which ALYN Hospital has been able to provide. (Please see the December Newsletter )

Even closer to front-line work are the services ALYN and its PELE team (Personalized Equipment Leading to Empowerment) have been providing to soldiers who have been injured and maimed in the hostilities. ALYN’s therapists first partnered with Sheba-Tel HaShomer Medical Center and now with Hadassah Hospital to treat soldiers in their rehabilitation units in need of adaptive equipment. (Please see the January Newsletter ).

Beyond what I deem to be, in fact, front-line work – the hospital also continues to move forward, with innovative collaborations through ALYNnovation, research projects, global presentations, creating partnerships with other medical facilities, launching new services, and, importantly, continuing to operate at full capacity throughout the conflict.

One of my final meetings was with Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital. We discussed the challenge of competing with nonprofits raising money for soldiers or evacuees or families of hostages. I asked Dr. Beeri what message she would want me to bring back to our community and our donors in the States. She said,

“If you want to support Israel in the long term, you have to support the institutions that are the backbone of the Israel you want to thrive.”

ALYN has certainly set the bar high for the best of Israeli institutions, healthcare or otherwise. Be assured that when you are donating to ALYN, you are investing in a world-class institution that not only provides exceptional care to children with disabilities but also embodies the resilient spirit and innovation that will drive Israel's future successes.

May 2024 Newsletter

Fri, 31 May 2024 03:57:27 GMT

In this issue

EMUNAH'S JOURNEY

JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

This week, I found myself at my community’s Yom HaZikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) commemoration which, of course, has extra meaning this year following the tragic events of October 7, 2023. I thought about the impact of these events on the families and staff at ALYN Hospital - whether on individuals who lost family members, those who had to go into unexpected reserve duty, and the hospital administration needing to make sure that security measures were in place for the staff and patients. Despite this all, there was never a time when the care and treatment of the children at ALYN was compromised.

Within 24 hours, we leave the sadness of Yom HaZikaron to begin the celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day), this year marks the 76th anniversary of Israel’s creation. I am constantly amazed at the contributions that have come from Israel to benefit the rest of the world, and ALYN is an important part of this. The hospital regularly receives visits and opportunities to share their knowledge with other medical professionals around the world. ALYN’s contributions to the field of pediatric rehabilitation have improved the lives of children worldwide.

Children often arrive at ALYN due to tragedy. Like the juxtaposition of Yom HaZikraon and Yom Ha’atzmaut, the care each child receives at ALYN often means that tragedy is followed by the joy of recovery and the opportunity for a life of independence and joy.

To support ALYN’s important work, I encourage all of you in the tri-state area to join us for Wheels of Love: USA on Sunday, June 23rd in Princeton, NJ. As always, this promises to be a fun and memorable day in which we come together to raise much-needed awareness and support to benefit the children of ALYN Hospital. This year, for the first time ever, we are hosting a family event with a 2.25-mile loop for ALYN supporters of every age. Please sign up and join us and encourage your friends to join you. For more information, click here .

Thank you for your support. May our success continue to grow on behalf of ALYN Hospital, and and may we soon see the return of the hostages.

All the best.

Adam

EMUNAH'S JOURNEY

What started with seemingly innocuous foot pain turned Emunah and her family’s world upside down. The foot pain rapidly progressed to the point where Emunah couldn't walk, stand, or even hold up her own head. She was soon after diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune disorder which affects the nervous system, causing extreme weakness and eventually paralyzes much of the body.

Join Wheels of Love: USA and
PEDAL FOR A PURPOSE!

Get ready to put the "fun" in fundraising as we gear up for the Wheels of Love: USA charity bike ride! On June 23, 2024 , cyclists from all over will converge at Skillman Park in Princeton, NJ, for a day filled with camaraderie, exercise, and most importantly, making a difference.

Dr. Keller

JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

May is Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM). JAHM was established in 2006 by President George W. Bush to honor and celebrate the important contributions Jewish Americans have made to American life and beyond. At American Friends of ALYN Hospital, we are marking JAHM by featuring the contributions made by Jewish Americans that shaped ALYN Hospital.

Emunah's Journey

Fri, 31 May 2024 02:36:44 GMT

May 2024 Newsletter

The disease's relentless assault on Emunah’s nervous system necessitated urgent medical intervention, leading to her admission to the pediatric intensive care unit, where she was placed on a ventilator to support her breathing.

However, amidst the darkness of Emunah's struggle, a beacon of hope emerged when she was transferred to ALYN Hospital's Respiratory Rehabilitation Department, just before Chanukah. The warmth and compassion extended to Emunah and her family by the ALYN staff provided a lifeline during this challenging time. In line with ALYN’s holistic approach, every aspect of Emunah’s recovery was covered - from teaching her family how to navigate the complexities of her medical equipment to ensuring she stayed on track with her studies.

Perach, Emunah’s mother, shares, "Suddenly you have to go out and do this on your own, but ALYN is such a warm, caring place; they help you every step of the way and explain everything. Everyone seemed to care so much about Emunah and how she progressed. It was surprising to see, when we were able to leave the room, that the doctors and nurses gave the same amount of care and attention to each child. For us, it seemed like Emunah was the center of their universe."

Through tireless rehabilitation efforts, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, Emunah made remarkable progress. Her determination, coupled with the unwavering support of her family and the dedicated professionals at ALYN, propelled her forward. Milestones like moving her toes and eventually weaning off the ventilator filled Emunah and her loved ones with hope for the future.

It is worth noting that her name, Emunah, in Hebrew means “belief” or “hope”. How wonderfully fitting! Today, Emunah is back in school, nearly seamlessly reintegrated into her class. Her return symbolizes not only her incredible resilience but also the transformative impact of ALYN's holistic approach to care. The hospital not only healed Emunah's body but also nurtured her spirit, instilling in her a sense of purpose and possibility for the future.

"ALYN is such a special place, full of heart."
- Perach, Emunah's mother

Emunah’s story is just one among hundreds at ALYN Hospital, where every day, children face immense challenges with courage and grace. Your support helps ensure that more children like Emunah receive the specialized care they need to overcome obstacles and thrive.

WHEELS OF LOVE: USA – PRINCETON Sunday, June 23, 2024

Tue, 21 May 2024 23:19:26 GMT

American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH) charity cycle event to raise funds for premier children’s rehabilitation hospital.

Posted: May 21, 2024

Doing Good is How We Roll

Join the fourth annual Wheels of Love: USA charity cycling event on Sunday, June 23rd at beautiful Skillman Park, in the Princeton area of New Jersey in support of ALYN Hospital. Our goal is to raise $100,000 and funds will go directly to benefit ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem, Israel. ALYN is a world-renowned, nonprofit pediatric and adolescent rehabilitation center dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with physical disabilities.

Media Contact

For media inquiries, please contact:
Adam Schwartz
adam@alynus.org
(212) 869-8085

Wheels of Love: USA - Princeton will bring together avid and casual cyclists alike, offering individuals and groups the opportunity to be sponsored for a 62- or 38-mile ride and a family-friendly 2.25-mile route where participants can choose to walk or ride.

Whichever route you choose, the ride is fully paved and will be well-equipped with cycle and medical support, snacks and drinks, and restroom facilities at designated stops for all to enjoy.

Register Today!

Wheels of Love: USA reflects AFAH’s perpetual mission to increase awareness and drive support for the innovative and life-changing work that ALYN Hospital has pursued for the last 90 years.

100% of the donations raised by riders and the wider community will directly support ALYN Hospital’s ability to advance its ground-breaking research, develop customized assisted technologies, and enhance and improve therapeutic programs and treatment services for patients and their families.

ALYN Hospital does not receive government funding and depends on donations to help cover the financial gap between what it receives from referring agencies and the actual costs of delivering best-in-class and innovative interdisciplinary care. From diagnosis to intensive inpatient and outpatient treatment to ongoing support, ALYN Hospital’s ultimate goal is to provide children with disabilities the tools they need to live with the greatest amount of mobility and independence.

ALYN Hospital’s impact in just 2023 tells a compelling story:

112,286 treatments provided across a spectrum of physical disabilities
73,575 therapeutic sessions for general development and rehabilitation services
3,117 children treated in Outpatient Services
143 PELE innovations Personalized Equipment Leading to Empowerment state-of-the-art adaptive solutions in development
41 PARC research studies Pediatric and Adolescent Research Center studies for novel treatment efficacy and reliability
16 ALYNnovation start-up partnerships

American Friends of ALYN Hospital, a four-star platinum Charity Navigator nonprofit organization headquartered in New York City, raises funds and awareness for the hospital because we believe that together we can help ALYN Hospital transform children’s lives around the world. The Executive Director of American Friends of ALYN Hospital’s, Adam Schwartz, stated, “One of the highlights of the year is when we come together in support of ALYN Hospital through Wheels of Love: USA. It’s incredibly rewarding to bring people together in such a fun environment with a tremendous spirit of camaraderie on behalf of this amazing cause.”

AFAH is deeply grateful for the support we have received for Wheels of Love: USA - Princeton from our global and regional sponsors, including Big Bear Gear ; ChamoisButt’r ; Cisco ; DreamRides ; Havana Central ; Herr’s ; Jay’s Cycles ; Law Offices of Steven Nachman ; Libertana ; Lupkin PLLC ; Pepsi ; Route Arrows ; Skratch Labs ; Sourland Cycles ; Twillory ; Waxenberg Wayntraub, PLLC .

EMUNAH’S JOURNEY

Tue, 07 May 2024 18:31:01 GMT

"ALYN is such a special place, full of heart."

- Perach, Emunah's mother

Jewish American Heritage Month

Tue, 07 May 2024 02:50:58 GMT

May 2024 Newsletter

ALYN Hospital was established in 1932 by Dr. Henry Keller , an American orthopedic surgeon from New York. Dr. Keller visited pre-state Israel in 1918 as part of a medical delegation to learn about the country’s health care situation (this delegation would later become the Hadassah Medical Organization). More than a decade later, in 1930, he was granted a license from the British Mandate to practice medicine in Palestine and he returned, dedicating the remainder of his life to serving children with disabilities in Jerusalem.

In 1931, he and several other Jewish New Yorkers opened a clinic on King George Street in downtown Jerusalem to treat these children. At the time, the local hospitals refused to provide orthopedic services, so the private clinic was founded. The clinic moved the next year to Bezalel Street and in 1934 to a building on Ben Yehuda Street and established themselves as a non-profit, called “The Society for the Aid of the Cripple in Palestine”. In 1935, the Hebrew name “ALYN” was created, as an acronym meaning “The Society to Aid Disabled Children” (in Hebrew: A gudah L’Y eladim N echim).

A polio epidemic in Israel in the 1940s and 1950s affected many children. To house the growing need of the ensuing emergency situation, the Ministry of Health provided ALYN Hospital with a monastery previously belonging to the San Simon Orthodox Church to use as a hospital. In this space ALYN provided medical and educational help to approximately 200 children with polio.

However, the monastery building was not well-suited for housing a developing rehabilitation center. In 1971, thanks to matching funds generously donated by Malcolm and Dorothy Woldenberg , Jewish community leaders from New Orleans, the ALYN Woldenberg Family Hospital, a modern hospital and rehabilitation facility in the Kiryat Yovel neighborhood of Jerusalem, opened its doors.

We are fortunate and honored that the great niece of Dr. Henry Keller , Paula Glazier. serves as our Board of Directors President, and the niece of Malcolm Woldenberg, Minette Brown, serves as the Chairwoman of the AFAH Board of Directors. M’dor L’dor – from generation to generation – Jewish Americans continue to support progress, innovation and compassion.

To learn more about Jewish American Heritage Month: https://jewishamericanheritage.org

April 2024 Newsletter

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:41:50 GMT

In this issue

DR. MAURIT BEERI’S VISIT TO AFAH

RIDER SPOTLIGHT: BERNIE CORNICK

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As I sit to write this month’s article, I am struck by the approach of two seemingly different but yet, for me, related items in the calendar. The first is the rapid approach of Passover (no I have not finished cleaning my house yet, ugh) and the other is my first anniversary as the Executive Director of American Friends of ALYN Hospital.

At first blush, there is really nothing in common between the two. Passover is a widely observed holiday celebrated by millions around the world. It marks the freedom of the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt. There are restrictions on what we can/cannot eat during the holiday. For many, it marks the transition from winter to spring.

Yet, on deeper reflection, there are some important overlaps that come to my mind.

The first is gratitude. During the entire holiday of Passover, but especially during the Seder, we express our appreciation to G-d for all that was done to sustain us in Egypt and, ultimately, to freeing us from captivity and the formation/foundation of the Jewish people.

Similarly, I feel tremendous gratitude to be associated with the team at ALYN Hospital. I am grateful for the incredible work done by the doctors, therapists, social workers, nursing staff, and management who are all dedicated to providing the highest level of support possible for the children of ALYN. Every one of the parents I met demonstrated such love and appreciation for the work being done, and for that I am deeply grateful.

Another element of Passover is celebrating the miracles that were done to secure the freedom of the Jews. This includes the ten plagues, crossing the Red Sea, the provision of Manna, and the ultimate leading of the Jewish community to our homeland in Israel.

Miracles are a frequent occurrence at ALYN Hospital as well. There are countless stories of children who were told they might never walk again taking steps, children being weaned off of feeding tubes and ventilators who experience new freedom and independence, children who arrive at ALYN with severe medical conditions who return home to their families and have the opportunity to enjoy a regular childhood with play, laughter and joy. Just this past weekend, we celebrated the miracle that even with over 300 drones and missiles fired at Israel from Iran, all the children and staff at the hospital were safe, and minimal to no harm resulted.

My final expression of gratitude is to our donors, riders, supporters, and leadership. I am immensely grateful to all of you who help to enable the work of AFAH. It is an honor to serve in this role. Please reach out with any thoughts/requests regarding our work moving forward.

My best to you and your families for a Chag Kasher V’Sameach. May we all have an amazing holiday and may we see the release of the hostages shortly.

DR. MAURIT BEERI’S VISIT TO AFAH

On March 11, 2024, Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital, met with a group of ALYN donors at the American Friends of ALYN Hospital in New York City. She spoke at length on the topic of “ALYN Hospital’s response to the challenges of the war – both internally and externally.”

RIDER SPOTLIGHT: BERNIE CORNICK

Nearly 15 years ago, Bernie Cornick sponsored a Wheels of Love cyclist. Five years later, after overhearing a conversation about the ride at his gym, he looked it up on the internet, saw there was an open spot and registered for the 2016 Wheels of Love! He has returned every year since (other than those years in which the ride was cancelled) and, in his words, “What can I say, I’m hooked!”

WOL: USA Registration is Open and New This Year – a Family Event

Wheels of Love: USA is back this year – coming to the Princeton area on June 23, 2024. Registration is now open! In addition to our usual beautiful routes, we are excited to offer you our first WOL: USA Family Event – open to children (and adults) of all ages. If you don’t want to commit to the longer 35- or 62-mile routes, we invite you to bike or walk a 2.25-mile loop in the same park where the other routes begin – do one loop or do more!

Chag Pesach Sameach!
!חג פסח שמח

From, American Friends of ALYN Hospital

Rider Spotlight: Bernie Cornick

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:04:17 GMT

April 2024 Newsletter

The first year, Bernie’s wife Milena joined him in Israel (but not on the ride). She has returned often and sometimes she meets him at the hospital to enjoy the festivities at the finish line.

Although he didn’t know anyone back in 2016, from the first bus ride to the starting line, Bernie began creating friendships among the riders, many of whom have also returned year after year. He has added to his Wheels of Love family by recruiting friends who have also become loyal participants.

As for the fundraising, in Bernie’s words, “Fundraising is NOT in my DNA, but somehow I have taken this on and I twist some arms if I have to. It’s a full-court press.” His arm-twisting appears to be a successful strategy as he is often among the top-10 fundraisers for the bike ride! He shares stories and pictures with his donors and invites them to feel as if they are a part of his journey, even if they are not in Israel riding with him. This year, he will not only be celebrating his 8th ride, but he will encourage friends and family to help him celebrate his milestone 80th birthday with donations to the hospital!

What has brought Bernie back year after year?

“It has been one of the most fantastic experiences for me, emotionally and physically . There’s really nothing like the closing ceremony when the kids put the finishing medal around your neck. There is not a dry eye in the place! I feel very strong about helping those kids.

Being in Israel is the icing on the cake. I get very emotional when I’m there. I feel like I’m a part of the culture and the religion. It’s a great feeling.

The combination of supporting the kids and being in Israel has made ALYN one of the top charities to which we give . It’s really my way of giving back to something meaningful.”

We thank Bernie for his many years of commitment to Wheels of Love and the children of ALYN Hospital. Todah rabah!

Dr. Maurit Beeri's Visit to AFAH

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:01:40 GMT

April 2024 Newsletter

On March 11, 2024, Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital, met with a group of ALYN donors at the American Friends of ALYN Hospital office in New York City. She spoke at length on the topic of “ALYN Hospital’s response to the challenges of the war – both internally and externally. ”

Her goal was to share what ALYN has been doing to maintain the working relationships amongst the diverse staff and how the hospital has reached out to help and support their patients, individuals affected by the war, and other institutions in the broader medical community.

While, in her words, “Everything we do every day has become more of a challenge over the past few months of course, the events of October 7 changed everyone.”

ALYN Hospital’s response to the hostilities has followed a three-pronged approach:

Ensuring the physical safety of the children and staff.
Creating a safe emotional space for employees and families from both sides of the conflict while ensuring that the doctors, nurses and therapists would feel safe in their interactions with patients and their families.
Providing opportunities for the staff to feel like they are part of the solution and doing meaningful work towards the war effort, even if they are not on the front line, while continuing the lifechanging work they do at ALYN.

Ensuring the physical safety of the children and staff:

The immediate response was to figure out how to defend the children from the missiles. These measures have included expanding and improving the shelters, closing gates, adding guards, and placing an additional guard shack before visitors/patients can enter the premises.

The Ministry of Health is requiring hospital to be able to run for three months without any outside assistance – meaning having sufficient electricity, water, medicines and food. Since it is impossible to rush the children in the Respiratory Rehabilitation Department to shelter in 90 seconds, the designated time we have from an alert from Gaza, the hospital is looking at creating an underground, protected space for the Respiratory Department for the children who are dependent on ventilators.

In essence, Dr. Beeri said, “We are preparing for the worst and hoping we will never have to face it.”

Creation of a safe emotional space for employees and families from both sides of the conflict:

In appreciation of how emotionally fraught the situation is, given the multicultural nature of the staff and patient community, the hospital administration is closely following conflict-resolution guidelines to create boundaries regarding acceptable and unacceptable speech. The goal is to make sure that all feel that they can be safe in their interactions within the hospital, while recognizing that people live in both worlds, on both sides of the conflict, and hear different narratives.

Dr. Beeri emphasized that it is important that ALYN continue to be recognized as a hospital where coexistence remains possible, even under these circumstances.

At any given moment, there are relationships that are tenuous, but there are also a lot of beautiful moments where individuals find ways to support each other. “ This is the ALYN we want to keep because this is the ALYN that concentrates on the future of the children,” Dr. Beeri said.

Providing opportunities for the staff to feel like they are part of the solution:

The hospital administration recognizes that many of the staff members would like to be taking more of a front-line role in the national war effort. In response, the hospital has tried to create opportunities for staff to engage in meaningful activities. Among these have been lending physicians and therapists to Sheba-Tel HaShomer Hospital where many of the soldiers are being treated to work in Sheba’s rehabilitation unit; enlisting PELE to create adaptive solutions for evacuees and soldiers (see our December Newsletter for more information); and volunteering on understaffed farms and supporting farmers by purchasing produce from southern Israel. The hospital is also actively supporting its own staff who are enlisted or have family members in active duty.

Dr. Beeri explained, “We are doing the things that we can do. We are not in the middle of what’s happening, thank goodness. But it’s difficult for the people who work for us given this situation, and they’re being asked to continue working as usual. As far as I’m concerned, keeping working as usual is what makes us strong . Unfortunately, this is going to last for a long time, so we have to make sure that we keep going, so that when it ends, we’re not starting from scratch and leaving kids behind .”

March 2024 Newsletter

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 03:24:58 GMT

In this issue

HEELS OF LOVE – LESSONS LEARNED

DONOR SPOTLIGHT – STEVE NACHMAN – CYCLIST, DONOR, ALYN AMBASSADOR

A NOTE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“As the month of Adar begins, our joy is increased!”
מי שנכנס אדר מרבין בשמחה

In the Jewish calendar, the month of Adar is meant to be the most joyful month of the year. This year is a leap year in the Jewish calendar so we have not only one month of Adar, but we get two (Adar 1 and Adar 2). Therefore our joy should be doubled!

Given the challenges facing our community since the tragic events in Israel on October 7, we are forced to ask ourselves – how can we feel and celebrate joy during this challenging time - and for two months, nonetheless?

Since October 7, I have certainly found comfort in knowing that ALYN Hospital has continued to provide its much-needed services. They’ve even adapted some therapies so they can be offered remotely to patients whose families have been evacuated from the war zone. The staff of the hospital has also provided guidance to other medical facilities, rehab centers and doctors who have turned to ALYN for assistance. Thinking of the way the ALYN staff has performed considering the current realities has filled me with a sense of immense pride.

While I carry this pride, I cannot say that it has helped me feel that increase in joy that we are supposed to feel at this time of the year.

So where am I finding my Adar joy? I find it by thinking of the children we are serving and the fact that, in the children’s eyes, “ALYN makes therapy fun”. If you have visited the hospital, you have seen the children riding a variety of adapted bicycles in the hallway! Throughout the hospital, you see the smiles and the happy faces. You hear the laughter of the children on their way to and from their appointments – music therapy, pet therapy, gardening therapy and the list goes on. Thinking of the children allows me to find that happiness and joy.

None of this could happen without you, our donors and friends. Your ongoing support and generosity enable this life-changing work to occur – successfully and joyfully!

Wishing you opportunities to find joy this Adar, even during these challenging times.

Chag purim sameach –

Adam Schwartz

During the coming months, I will be visiting a number of communities around the country to help us share this message more widely. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with any of you and/or anyone you suggest might enjoy/benefit from learning about our work. Just drop me a note at adam@alynus.org .

DONOR SPOTLIGHT – STEVE NACHMAN

CYCLIST, DONOR, ALYN AMBASSADOR

Steve Nachman participated in his first Wheels of Love charity bike ride for ALYN Hospital in 2006. He soon became a vital part of the ALYN family, returning to ride year after year and finding various ways to share his love for ALYN and the children treated there. We honor him in this Donor Spotlight for his unwavering support and commitment.

HEELS OF LOVE - LESSONS LEARNED

FROM DAVIDA POPIK, AFAH DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Why would I choose to go to Israel in the midst of a war? Why would I choose this year over other years? Why? Because life must continue and we must still find joy where we can, while we wait, while we worry. So together with 55 other ALYN supporters I joined the hospital’s annual Heels of Love charity hike, held this year on February 27-29.

We are pleased to announce the launching of the Roee Negri Memorial Grant for Wheels of Love , Israel. The grant is a tribute to the leadership and heroism displayed by IDF Major Roee Negri z”l, grandson of our ALYN colleague Brenda Hirsch, who was tragically killed in action on October 7. In life, Roee was a respected and beloved leader, an inspiration both to his troops as well as to his friends and family.

In line with AFAH’s goals to cultivate young leadership, the Roee Negri Memorial Grant is seeking applicants from the United States and Mexico, between the ages of 25-35, who have a demonstrated track record of leadership and community service, as well as a desire to participate in supporting ALYN as a healing place for children around the world.

With a generous endowment from an AFAH board member, the Grant will cover the registration fee for the Wheels of Love charity bike ride (a value of $1,200), November 11-14, 2024 in Israel, benefitting ALYN Hospital . This is the inaugural year and the gift will allow for two participants a year for the next five years. Should you wish to supplement this wonderful program so that it can be extended, please contact the AFAH office: 212-869-8085, friends@alynus.org.

SAVE THE DAT E -

WHEELS OF LOVE: USA!

Wheels of Love: USA returns on Sunday, June 23, 2024 to the Princeton, New Jersey area. Join us for our fourth annual USA-based charity ride benefitting ALYN Hospital. Princeton is home to numerous scenic cycling areas. As always, our routes will be meticulously planned by the DreamRides team, guaranteed to provide you with another memorable biking experience.

Donor Spotlight - Steve Nachman - Cyclist, Donor, ALYN Ambassador

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 01:07:36 GMT

March 2024 Newsletter

Nearly 20 years ago, Steve Nachman crashed his bike and broke a hip. During his recovery, he spent hours daydreaming of the day he would be able to get back in the saddle.

With the help of the internet, he found an article about ALYN Hospital’s upcoming charity bike ride, Wheels of Love , in an Israeli paper. As he read more about the hospital and the life-changing therapies offered there, he made the decision to get himself out of bed, work hard at his own rehabilitation, and then ride for the children of ALYN .

Steve first participated in 2006 and, in his words, “I haven’t looked back.” His wife Sharon came along as a volunteer that first year and then participated over several years as well, either as a volunteer or as a cyclist. He missed a few years here and there, and this past year he earned his 15-year loyalty jacket. “I come back every year for the honor of riding with ALYN patients who participate as riders, and for the experience at the finish line. When the kids meet you there, you see beyond their disabilities and realize they’re just happy children , excited to hand you a medal,” Steve explains.

Steve’s commitment to ALYN goes far beyond the bike ride in Israel , however. He is an avid fundraiser and ALYN Ambassador. Over the pandemic, and most recently after the events of October 7, the bike ride in Israel could not take place. In both cases, Steve helped organize large community rides in Long Island, drawing scores of cyclists, to show support for ALYN Hospital and solidarity with the people of Israel.

His contributions don’t end there! After October 7, Steve turned to the Mercaz Academy in Plainview, NY. The Nachman children had all studied there, and Steve has remained connected to the school. Like so many Jews in the Diaspora at the time, Steve wanted to find a way to send messages of support to the children and staff of ALYN Hospital. In collaboration with the administration and teachers at Mercaz Academy, two beautiful videos were created and shared with the children of ALYN, full of songs and well wishes – one for Shabbat and one for Hannukah. It was a meaningful message, showing that the Mercaz Academy community was standing behind the work of ALYN, especially during these difficult times. (Please see the December Newsletter for the full story).

While we are honoring Steve Nachman and everything he has done for ALYN over the past two decades with this Donor Spotlight, one of his own donors has recently taken action to recognize Steve’s efforts to raise funds and awareness of ALYN Hospital. She has been carried along on Steve’s ALYN journey over the years – as Steve always sends his donors ALYN updates and details of his time in Israel on the ride. This year, she honored him by purchasing a paver in his name in ALYN’s Bricks of Love Garden, with the words “INSPIRED LEADERSHIP, OUTSTANDING ATHLETICISM, UNWAVERING SUPPORT”.

Not surprisingly, Steve fully intends to attend the ride in Israel this coming November. In Steve’s words, “ ALYN is part of my life and has made my life better too . And it has become a meaningful part of the lives of my circle of friends and my community.”

Learn more about Wheels of Love and Bricks of Love here.

Heels of Love - Lessons Learned

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 01:03:51 GMT

March 2024 Newsletter

Planning an event of this magnitude, this logistically complex, with so many moving parts and participants, during a war no less, is no easy task. The first challenge was to decide whether to hold it at all and then there are always last-minute tweaks that need to be made, including moving the start time to accommodate participants who wanted to vote in Israel’s local elections that week. Of course, there are always weather considerations, and the day before the hike, flash floods were predicted. Yarden Frankl, Director of Special Projects, and his team came up with numerous backup plans, and the hike carried on. Add to that, the land changes over time, rain causes mud, and boulders moved. Our guides were amazing, they ventured ahead and updated our routes as needed. For the participants, no one was the wiser – and everything ran smoothly and without incident.

Those were the logistical challenges. For me, the challenge was to see if I had the strength for three days of hiking. I love being outside, but my personal "sport" is swimming, and I will take any opportunity to do so, including when we found a pool in the middle of a valley in the desert, I swam – with permission.

There were two hiking groups – one more technical/difficult and one for less extreme hikers, like me. I knew I should start with the second group. I was certain I would enjoy the views, the food, the stars and, importantly, fulfilling the mitzvah of fundraising for ALYN, instead of helping someone else fundraise, which is a daily part of my job at AFAH. What I found was so much greater - I found strength in myself I didn't know I had . I had conversations with people I would never have met. I learned lessons about life from people of all ages and backgrounds. Every day the guide for our group, Keren, would teach us about the land we were hiking on. We would learn about flowers and animals. She told us about why the sands were purple in one place and about seeds that refused to open until they knew they had enough water to grow. She told us about the birds flying above us and the people who roamed these mountains millennia before us. The harder the climb, the more I saw, and the more I learned.

While a large part of Heels of Love focuses on connecting with the land of Israel and with her history, there is an equal emphasis on embracing the opportunity to forge connections with the other participants – creating new friendships and strengthening existing ones. Certainly, in the shadows of the war, feeling safe and supported within a community is paramount.

Together we looked for the positives in our lives over the past year. We shared stories of connections made post-October 7. We shared our struggles - the tears, the lack of sleep, the worry for the soldiers and the hostages. We offered each other support – both figuratively and literally - whenever someone said they didn't think they could climb that boulder or finish that climb, someone else said, “ Yes you can. Take my hand and I will help you ." So many volunteered to help push, pull, demonstrate, or assist in any way.

After three intense days, and excited for a long shower, I made my way back to the hotel for some much-needed sleep. After a quiet Shabbat, I spent a few days back at ALYN Hospital, validating what all that hard work had been for after all – for the children who come to ALYN every day and work even harder on their own rehabilitation. The fundraising goal was $200,000, to cover the cost of two months of physical therapy services for ALYN. We are nearly there!

I have now returned home to the US, and I am richer for having had this experience. I have new friendships, a deeper appreciation for the land of Israel, an expanded understanding of the amazing work that happens at ALYN Hospital. If those were all I came away with - dayenu, but I am fortunate to have also discovered new things about myself; I found strength in my body and mind that I didn't know I had.

To learn more about Heels of Love, read here .

Heels of Love - Lessons Learned

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 20:34:46 GMT

Why would I choose to go to Israel in the midst of a war? Why would I choose this year over other years? Why? Because life must continue and we must still find joy where we can, while we wait, while we worry. So together with 55 other ALYN supporters, I joined the hospital’s annual Heels of Love charity hike, held this year on February 27-29.

Planning an event of this magnitude, this logistically complex, with so many moving parts and participants, during a war, no less, is no easy task. The first challenge was to decide whether to hold it at all, and then there are always last-minute tweaks that need to be made, including moving the start time to accommodate participants who wanted to vote in Israel’s local elections that week. Of course, there are always weather considerations, and the day before the hike, flash floods were predicted. Yarden Frankl, Director of Special Projects, and his team came up with numerous backup plans, and the hike carried on. Add to that, the land changes over time, rain causes mud, and boulders moved. Our guides were amazing; they ventured ahead and updated our routes as needed. For the participants, no one was the wiser – and everything ran smoothly and without incident.

There were two hiking groups – one more technical/difficult and one for less extreme hikers, like me. I knew I should start with the second group. I was certain I would enjoy the views, the food, the stars, and, importantly, fulfilling the mitzvah of fundraising for ALYN, instead of helping someone else fundraise, which is a daily part of my job at AFAH. What I found was so much greater - I found strength in myself I didn't know I had. I had conversations with people I would never have met. I learned life lessons from people of all ages and backgrounds. Every day, our group guide, Keren, would teach us about the land we were hiking on. We would learn about flowers and animals. She told us about why the sands were purple in one place and about seeds that refused to open until they knew they had enough water to grow. She told us about the birds flying above us and the people who roamed these mountains millennia before us. The harder the climb, the more I saw, and the more I learned.

Together, we looked for the positives in our lives over the past year. We shared stories of connections made post-October 7. We shared our struggles - the tears, the lack of sleep, the worry for the soldiers and the hostages. We offered each other support – both figuratively and literally - whenever someone said they didn't think they could climb that boulder or finish that climb, someone else said, “Yes, you can. Take my hand, and I will help you." So many volunteered to help push, pull, demonstrate, or assist in any way.

After three intense days, and excited for a long shower, I made my way back to the hotel for some much-needed sleep. After a quiet Shabbat, I spent a few days back at ALYN Hospital, validating what all that hard work had been for after all – for the children who come to ALYN every day and work even harder on their own rehabilitation. The fundraising goal was $200,000 to cover the cost of two months of physical therapy services for ALYN. We are nearly there!

I have now returned home to the US, and I am richer for having had this experience. I have new friendships, a deeper appreciation for the land of Israel, and an expanded understanding of the amazing work that happens at ALYN Hospital. If those were all I came away with - dayenu, but I am fortunate to have also discovered new things about myself; I found strength in my body and mind that I didn't know I had.

To learn more about Heels of Love, read here .

February 2024 Newsletter

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 02:47:47 GMT

ALYN HOSPITAL 2023 IMPACT REPORT

While 2023 was a complicated year for all of us, it was also a year of continuing growth and productivity at ALYN Hospital. Even with the atrocities of October 7th and the war that followed, ALYN Hospital had many notable accomplishments. Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital, shares them with us here.

AFAH IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS!

American Friends of ALYN Hospital is always looking for members of our ALYN family who want to volunteer their services and help take part in creating long-lasting positive change.

We are specifically looking for volunteers in the following areas:

PTs, OTs, and other pediatric specialists for our STEM program (details will be provided)
Volunteers for our Wheels of Love: USA ride
Volunteers to help with office work during our busy direct mail times
General Volunteering

SAVE THE DATE – WHEELS OF LOVE: USA!

TIME TO PURCHASE YOUR ALYN HOSPITAL PURIM CARDS!

It’s time to purchase your ALYN Hospital Purim cards! Instead of sending a traditional mishloach manot basket, gift your family and friends with a donation to ALYN Hospital. You can order a pack of these beautiful cards – 12 cards for $36

Place your order today!

Wednesday, March 13 is the order deadline.
You can order a pack of these beautiful cards – 12 cards for $36.

January 2024 Newsletter

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:44:23 GMT

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF ALYN HOSPITAL: 2023 HIGHLIGHTS

At American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH), we begin 2024 with gratitude, acknowledging the journey and experiences that shaped us in 2023. Our hope for 2024 is that we will continue in a positive trajectory, maintaining our focus on our mission of supporting ALYN Hospital and raising its visibility as a world-class pediatric facility. Join us in reflecting on AFAH’s 2023 achievements and highlights.

ALYN HOSPITAL THERAPIST'S WORK WITH WOUNDED ISRAELI SOLDIERS

January 14 marked 100 days since Hamas’ brutal attack on the Israeli people. It is essential that we take the opportunity to honor the men and women fighting for Israel’s survival, to mourn those who have passed in this war and to pray for those still held hostage in Gaza. It is also an opportunity to recognize Israeli civilians who are contributing in remarkable ways to the war effort.

One of ALYN Hospital's most senior physical therapists, Nurit Stern, has been sent to Sheba-Tel HaShomer Medical Center in Tel Aviv to help the overburdened rehabilitation staff at the facility where scores of soldiers injured in the war in Gaza are being treated.

Nurit spends half of her day providing physical therapy to soldiers, and the other half working in the geriatric ward, filling in for staff who have been transferred to work with the soldiers, or who themselves are serving in the reserves.

"Witnessing the sheer number of wounded soldiers in Sheba is a stark reminder of the harsh realities of war. Each soldier's injuries, as well as the impact on their families, evoke a mix of emotions within me. While I find great satisfaction in my work, it is impossible to ignore the significance of so many injured young people.

The soldiers I work with have endured gunshot wounds, shrapnel injuries, and blast impacts. These injuries are complex, involving various orthopedic, soft tissue, nerve, and blood vessel damages. Comparing this to my experience at ALYN, the injuries differ significantly. Most soldiers are young adults doing their mandatory army service. What sets them apart from children is their unwavering determination and ambition to achieve better outcomes, even in the face of pain. There are more opportunities to address their mental blockages to progress, such as anxiety about pain, through therapeutic techniques like explaining the anatomy of injuries, recovery mechanisms, and using demonstrations in practice."

For Nurit, treating the soldiers hits very close to home. She has sons of her own who are currently serving in the war.

"At ALYN, I work with many children who have experienced sudden tragedy such as a road accident or cancer, and I've learned to develop defense mechanisms to help me suppress the fear of such disasters happening to my own children. However, when working with soldiers, especially considering the fact that my own sons are currently serving in the reserves, the worry becomes more prominent. I choose not to share this fear with them, but it is always at the back of my mind."

Of course, Nurit has not forgotten her special patients who continue their rehabilitation at ALYN.

"I continue to be updated after our weekly staff meetings to discuss each and every hospitalized child who is undergoing physical therapy at ALYN Hospital. I feel privileged to have the full support of ALYN's entire physical therapy team, some of whom have been filling in for me while I cannot be present.

Working in rehabilitation at Sheba is an essential part of the national effort, and it holds great significance for me. The rehabilitation staff at Sheba carry an enormous burden, even with assistance from both external and internal volunteers. I must commend the staff for their dedication and the volunteers, from Sheba retirees to individuals from abroad, for their contributions. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone involved in making it possible for ALYN Hospital to allow me to be a part of this special gesture of support of the soldiers."

We are grateful to Nurit for her selfless dedication and willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty to help those who have been injured while defending Israel and her people.

JOIN US FOR HEELS OF LOVE 2024

February 27-29, 2024

The sixth annual Heels of Love takes place February 27-29, 2024. This year, we will hike in the spectacular Judean Desert. There will be two groups of hikers: a challenge group that covers up to 8-12 miles a day with plenty of climbing, and a more moderate (but not easy) group that will hike about 6 miles a day on less technical trails. You may join in for either two or three days. Each group has professional guides, medics and additional staff for security and logistical assistance.

The fundraising Heels of Love provides invaluable support for ALYN’s important work. Join us for an experience of a lifetime!

Registration is $400 and the fundraising minimum will be $2000 for the 2-day option; $3000 for the 3-day option.

Patient Story: Yassin

Tue, 16 May 2023 04:26:41 GMT

Meet Yassin.

Nadia’s prenatal doctor visit reports were normal. Her pregnancy went smoothly. However, when her son, Yassin, was born, a blockage prevented airflow between his lungs and his nose and mouth depriving him of sufficient oxygen.

During his first days and weeks, Yassin was transported from hospital to hospital to undergo multiple surgeries. The medical team decided that a tracheotomy would be Yassin’s best option. A tracheotomy is an opening surgically created through the neck into the trachea (windpipe) to allow air to fill the lungs. After creating the opening in the neck, a tube is inserted through it creating an airway. Yassin was able to breathe since the tube bypassed the obstructive blockage.

At 6 weeks old, Yassin was admitted to ALYN Hospital for respiratory rehabilitation treatment. According to Dr. Nitay Fraenkel, Deputy Director of the Department for Respiratory Rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital, the main goal was to give Yassin and his family the skills and tools for him to live at home and play with other children his age, while managing the tracheotomy.

Before becoming a mother, Nadia studied education and enrolled in special education courses. She remembers thinking, “If I had a child with special needs, how would I care for him?” This once theoretical question became real and very personal.

Nadia’s question changed to “How can I give Yassin the ability to take care of himself? How can I enable him to play alone with his friends as his brothers do?” Nadia wanted to help her son to become independent, like every mother wishes for their children.

Yassin’s parents were eager to learn how to appropriately care for him and bring him home so they could live together as a family. After being discharged from ALYN, they looked for a nursery school that also could provide the daily medical care Yassin required.

Yassin attended SHACHAR, an education program for outpatients onsite at ALYN Hospital. At SHACHAR, he received an education that prepared him to transition into a typical community school, along with the necessary therapy according to his individualized treatment plan - physical, occupational, speech and feeding therapies. His parents continued to receive support and guidance from ALYN’s education and social work staff.

While there are other hospitals that offer education for children with complex medical conditions, it usually is offered exclusively for the inpatients. Children attend SHACHAR while living with their families in their communities. When the children’s condition permits, they transition into community schools.

Yassin attended nursery school, kindergarten and the beginning of grade school at SHACHAR. During this time, Yassin caught up with his peers from a developmental perspective and was ready to transition to a mainstream school.

Recently, Yassin and his parents visited ALYN Hospital for a regular check-up. Dr. Nitay examined his medical condition and asked him how he felt. But how Yassin is doing in school and what he enjoys was as important to Dr. Nitay.

“The most important thing is school because the tracheotomy is not what defines you, rather the things you do with your life are what define you. The tracheotomy tube is like glasses, it helps you to function, but what is important is that you continue to study, to be active, to develop and to participate in society,” explains Dr. Nitay.

Yassin is now 12 years old, and his condition has improved. No one knows what the future holds for sure, but the tracheotomy certainly is not significantly limiting Yassin from having a normal childhood. Yassin enjoys playing ball and marble games with his neighborhood friends. He loves cars and hopes to own a car dealership when he grows up. Although his father is encouraging him to become a doctor or an engineer!

We at ALYN know that Yassin is strong and determined and will be able to achieve anything he sets his mind to do!

Gina Shaffer: Parent Spotlight

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:32:38 GMT

Parent Spotlight: Gina Shaffer

For the third consecutive year my husband, Binyamin, took part in the Heels of Love charity hike to raise money for ALYN Hospital, from February 28 - March 4 in Israel. Why would he do it? We're not a hiking family and sleeping on the ground in the desert at the end of the winter isn't exactly what I would say he would choose for fun.

I can't say enough about how grateful we are for what ALYN did for our son, after his brain surgery to remove a malignant brain tumor and the subsequent onset of Posterior Fossa Syndrome, a condition that often sets in after surgery of the cerebellum. He had less functioning than a baby, including loss of speech, inability to swallow, and complete loss of movement.

When our son first arrived at ALYN, he needed to be regularly transported to Hadassah Hospital for critical cancer treatments and return to ALYN for rehabilitation. ALYN gave him a special wheelchair that was adapted for his body and he was able to receive his cancer treatments and rehabilitation at the same time – something that is not often possible in many hospitals around the world.

Everyone at ALYN worked together so our son could come back home to us as soon as possible.

The first 6 months of care were as an in-patient. For the next two years, he continued to receive an intense regimen of occupational, physical, speech and hydrotherapy. In addition, he also received music, gardening, martial arts and animal-assisted therapies to complement the traditional therapies and to provide emotional support. As parents, we also were provided emotional support by the social workers.

Now every year we bring our son to ALYN to assess his progress. We receive a full evaluation report and suggestions for continuing therapies in the community, if necessary.

Our son’s biggest wish at ALYN was to return to being a ‘normal boy,’ the one he remembers being before cancer. ALYN does that – It rehabilitates so the children can try to get back to being themselves. The first thing I remember after spending a month in the neurosurgery ward is that the staff insisted that our son was dressed in regular clothing every day. He could not move. He could not sit up. But the staff said he needed to get out of “hospital mode” and get dressed.

This helped our son psychologically and physically progress forward with his rehabilitation. ALYN is much more than just the therapies they provide. Their attitude and strategy to rehabilitation makes ALYN unique and quite different from general hospitals.

While most people in Israel have heard about the hospital, there is no real understanding of what it is unless you've been there. (For which, I truly hope no one ever needs to learn firsthand). ALYN looks after children with a range of conditions - developmental issues, loss of limbs, major complications from illnesses, burn victims, requiring rehabilitation after surgery or an accident and so much more! These are just some of the cases that we saw during our time at ALYN. Every child regardless of religion, race or culture is provided with this unique holistic care to help them rehabilitate following a personal tsunami that forces them to accept a new reality.

In addition to the vital medical and therapeutic rehabilitation treatments, its Innovation Space is dedicated to developing high-tech solutions to real challenges for children with disabilities in Israel and around the world.

It’s been 6 years. My husband and I know without a doubt that our son is who he is today because of the therapeutic care ALYN Hospital provides - And for this, we will forever be grateful!

Gina Shaffer

Harel's Story

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 04:32:39 GMT

Meet Harel.

Art, running, Spiderman and playing with friends are highlights of Harel’s life just like any child. Thanks to ALYN Hospital, Harel is enjoying these things.

In an unexpected turn of events near the end of an otherwise normal pregnancy, Harel was born with a bacterial infection. He developed a fever and was put on a ventilator. His parents didn’t know what would happen. Eventually, this treatment helped to stabilize his condition and his family was able to take him home.

However, by age 2, Harel was not walking and his mother noticed he would not put pressure on his left foot to stand. Doctors discovered his left leg was slightly shorter than his right and that his knees were angling in toward each other. His parents were told the bacterial infection he had at birth inhibited some growth, and that without surgery – and likely a series of surgeries until he reached adulthood – his ability to walk at all would be very limited.

At 4-years old Harel had his first limb-lengthening surgery on his left femur. He has undergone three additional limb-lengthening surgeries and several other more minor surgeries – 7 surgeries in just 10 short years.

After each surgery Harel came to ALYN for a minimum of 6 months of intensive day hospitalization, physical therapy and hydrotherapy for stretching, strengthening, improving his range of movement and improving his gait.

Thanks to ALYN’s holistic approach to support children's physical, social, emotional, and academic development, Harel also benefited from classes in cooperation with the teachers in his school, and one of Harel’s favorite things at ALYN, art therapy. Additionally, Harel’s parents received support from psychologists and social workers.

Cheerfully Harel remembers, “At ALYN, I love to draw in art therapy. In first grade, I drew a picture of Spiderman that the art therapist still has hanging today!”

Harel’s most recent limb-lengthening surgery was in April 2022. When he arrived at ALYN after the surgery, he was not allowed to put any weight on the leg. Grateful for the therapies and retraining he received, he regained sufficient strength in his left leg to be able to put full weight on it again and to even run for very short distances!

Harel will need another 8 surgeries before his 21st birthday. The caring and innovative ALYN Hospital staff will be with him before and after each. They will advise him on how to continue physical activity and daily exercises for stretching and strengthening in preparation of each surgery and offer the rehabilitation, love and support he needs after each. ALYN will be with him and his family every step of the way.

“I remember that after one of my surgeries, on a day that I wasn’t at ALYN Hospital, I went to school using a wheelchair and it was great fun, with my friends taking turns pushing me through the hallways.”

The archery team trained with the archers of ALYN Hospital

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Join us in strengthening the community support of American Friends of ALYN Hospital.

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From Bondage to Freedom: The Children of ALYN Hospital

Freedom is Not a Destination

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The archery team trained with the archers of ALYN Hospital

Michaela Moshe and Shemai Yamarom arrived at the medical institution specializing in the rehabilitation of children and youth.

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The Season of Transformation

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NEW ROOMS

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New Beginnings That Don’t Fade

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New Learning Spaces Spark Joy, Movement, and Connection at ALYN

Bringing People Together Through Community Events

Pedaling Through Pain

How a wounded reservist and a paralyzed teen found strength together

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DIRECTOR'S NOTE

LOOKING BACK WITH PRIDE, LOOKING AHEAD WITH PURPOSE

Challah Bake with ALYN

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Explore Israel in a New Way While Supporting ALYN Hospital

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A Letter That Moved Us Deeply ��

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