Choosing Life
Since October 7, hundreds of soldiers, both male and female, have joined the “Brothers for Life (BFL)” association, which supports their healing process by connecting them with rehabilitated wounded soldiers and helping them return to life. Last month, an international medical conference, initiated by BFL in collaboration with Sheba Medical Center, was held to provide these soldiers with the best medical care available globally, in Israel.
“I still have a long way to go, but thanks to Brothers for Life, I know I’ll get the best treatment,” says Shachar Shiloni (24), whose left leg was amputated after being hit by an anti-tank missile in Gaza during the fifth night of Hanukkah. “The ‘brothers’ have been by my side since the day I was injured, guiding me through every step and helping me with everything I need. I wouldn’t have made it this far without them”.
Shachar is just one of 2,000 wounded soldiers who BFL has supported since its founding in 2008. 700 of them have joined since October 7, a number that, unfortunately, continues to grow. BFL’s mission is to do everything possible to allow the ‘brothers’ to fulfill every dream they have for their lives postinjury. All activities are managed by rehabilitated wounded soldiers, creating a shared experience and giving hope to those just starting their journey.
Wounded Soldiers Helping Wounded Soldiers
“Injury is a life-altering event, both physically and mentally, and you find yourself in a race to reclaim who you were,” explains
Yaniv Leidner, CEO of BFL. “When a soldier meets someone who has already gone through the recovery process, something special happens—wounded soldiers help other wounded soldiers. You realize you’re not alone, and most importantly, you see that there is hope. This is a key element in the recovery process.”
All the Way to Dubai to Find Prosthetics
The impact of Brothers for Life is felt the moment you step into the “Brothers’ House”, located in Israel. The house is filled with an optimistic spirit of action, resilience and leadership, supporting the ‘brothers’ as they embark on their brave journeys back to life. BFL offers a broad range of activities including workshops, sports, trips, employment guidance, and social events. All activities are driven by the needs and dreams of the ‘brothers’ themselves, who are fully involved in the running of the organization.
" These soldiers are the best people—and they risked their lives for all of us. The only option is to provide them with the best care "
“These soldiers are the best people—and they risked their lives for all of us. The only option is to provide them with the best care,” says Leidner. “We’ll go as far as Dubai to find prosthetic fingers or travel 10,000 miles for an innovative medical brace that’s only made there.” “We’re not looking for applause,” adds
Ganonian, now BFL’s chairman. “We simply want to give the wounded soldiers everything they need to live full and healthy lives like anyone else.” This approach has succeeded, with about 50% of the ‘brothers’ completing rehabilitation.
The Best Medical Care in the World
Since its inception, BFL’s connection with the Jewish diaspora has been strong and grown stronger. “Members of Jewish communities act out of love for Israel and a desire to give something back to the soldiers,” says Ganonian. Over time, these communities have become ambassadors for Brothers for Life, connecting with top ortho-plastic experts who volunteer to treat wounded soldiers for free. This led to the creation of a unique medical project that enables the ‘brothers’ to know their rights, receive second opinions, and undergo advanced prosthetic surgeries. Thanks to community support and funding from the Ministry of Defense, more than 350 soldiers have already received the best medical treatment available worldwide.
Making the Right Decisions at Critical Moments
The highlight of this medical project took place in September, when international experts traveled to Israel to participate in the first-of-its-kind conference “Advances in Orthoplastic Amputation Care”. Organized by Brothers for Life in collaboration with Sheba Medical Center, the conference featured lectures, workshops, and demonstrations from top Israeli and international experts, showcasing cutting-edge treatment methods in the field. At the end of the conference, dozens of IDF soldiers underwent medical evaluations ahead of surgeries that will be performed jointly by American and Israeli experts. This collaboration will allow local doctors to gain expertise and offer soldiers advanced treatments in Israel.
Yaniv Leidner, BFL's Co-Founder & CEO
Gil Ganonyan - BFL's Co-Founder & Chairman
“Advanced, cutting-edge knowledge is being passed to medical teams across Israel, from the center to the periphery, so they can make accurate, life- and limb-saving decisions in the crucial first moments,” explains Dr. Avi Avitan, an orthopedic and rehabilitation specialist who was one of the conference leaders, “This wouldn’t have been possible without Brothers for Life.”
The Greatest Satisfaction
Dr. Jason Souza, a world-renowned ortho-plastic specialist from Ohio State University was another key participant. One of the first American experts to treat wounded Israeli soldiers, he says, “I’ve seen severely injured soldiers achieve what they never thought possible. That’s the greatest satisfaction. Their motivation and ability to overcome challenges are remarkable.”
Dr. Souza, who operated on Shachar Shiloni during a previous visit to Israel, is expected to perform a second surgery on him soon, alongside Dr. Avitan whose connection to BFL isn’t just professional—he is also a wounded IDF soldier. “When you’re injured, you always feel like no one can really understand what you’re going through. But here, everyone understands,” he says.
“I’m counting the days until the surgery,” says Shachar Shiloni. “It’s not just about easing the pain—it’s about getting back to a normal life. Only then can I even start dreaming about simple things again, like just living without constant pain.” In the meantime, Shachar has already achieved one significant goal—he recently married his beloved Tamar and even managed to break the traditional wedding glass himself.
You Can Help, Too
Brothers for Life works tirelessly for soldiers who have sacrificed so much for the country’s security, proving that with proper support, determination, and faith, any challenge can be overcome. The annual rehabilitation cost for each ‘brother’ is tens of thousands of Dollars. If you’d like to be part of this important initiative, scan the code and help bring our brothers back to life.
For additional questions and support, please contact us: info@bfl.co.il
