Hearbeat 2025

shaarezedek.org.uk 2025

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HOPE& HEALING

STANDING STRONG, MOVING FORWARD Dear friends,

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he beginning of 2025 is filled with emotion, pain, resilience and above all, hope. This past year tested us like never before. War and loss shook our hearts, yet through the darkness, the unwavering spirit of Shaare Zedek shone brighter than ever. We mourn the 16 first-degree relatives of our staff who fell in this brutal conflict, and we continue to pray for the safe return of our hostages and the healing of the wounded.

But even in the depths of sorrow, we have found strength. Over 1,400 soldiers received life-saving care within our walls, and hundreds of our staff answered the call to serve, both in the hospital and on the battlefield. Their courage is a testament to the unbreakable bond of our Shaare Zedek family.

Despite immense challenges, 2024 was a year of growth. We upgraded our infrastructure, invested in new technologies, and overall enhanced our operational and medical capabilities. For the first time in the

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hospital’s history, the Emergency Department saw over 100,000 patient admissions. We performed over 45,000 surgeries and over 20,000 new babies were brought into the world in our maternity facilities.

With record-breaking patient admissions, life-saving procedures, and thousands of new lives welcomed into the world, Shaare Zedek remains a pillar of hope for Jerusalem and beyond.

To all who support our hospital, we extend our deepest gratitude.

Together, in unity and love, we will continue to heal, to stand strong, and to move forward, lighting the way for a brighter future.

Wishing you and your families health, happiness, and peace.

Professor Ofer Merin Director General Shaare Zedek Medical Center

A YEAR OF GROWTH, CONNECTION, AND DEDICATION Dear friends,

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s we reflect on the past year, I am filled with immense pride for everything we have achieved together in support of Shaare Zedek Medical Center.

It has been a year of challenges, but more importantly, one of resilience, generosity, and progress.

One of the greatest highlights for me has been the opportunity to meet and engage with so many of you, both familiar faces and new supporters, who share a deep commitment to our cause.

Despite the immense emotional and physical challenges faced by its dedicated medical professionals, the hospital has made incredible strides, furthering its mission of compassionate, world-class care.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support, generosity, and belief in our work make everything we do possible.

I look forward to another year of making a meaningful difference together.

Warmest regards,

These conversations have provided invaluable insight into developing new ways to grow Shaare Zedek UK, ensuring we continue to provide vital support to the hospital.

Oshrit Cowan Chief Executive Shaare Zedek UK

At the heart of our work is Shaare Zedek Medical Center itself, a beacon of excellence that continues to treat a remarkable one million patients each year.

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DEDICATION AMID CRISIS:

THE STAFF OF SHAARE ZEDEK MEDICAL CENTER IN JERUSALEM In times of war, heroes emerge in many forms. At Shaare Zedek, the doctors, nurses, and support staff have proven to be just that, heroes who continue to show up every day, tirelessly putting their patients first despite immense personal sacrifice and uncertainty. Among them, Talia Slotki, Nursing Coordinator in the Pain Clinic, whose story exemplifies this extraordinary balance of personal and professional commitment.

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NEWS & MEDICAL FIRSTS

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n 2024 Talia was awarded an Honourable Distinction for Bravery and Heroism by the President of Israel, a recognition of her unwavering dedication in the face of unimaginable personal tragedy.

On October 7th, Talia’s sons, Noam and Yishai, left home to defend besieged communities near the southern border. Both fought valiantly before falling in battle.

For a harrowing week, Talia and her family did not know their fate, until the devastating confirmation came that both sons had been killed.

Despite her profound grief, Talia returned to Shaare Zedek, determined to continue her work.

“Every time I walk through these doors, I remind myself why I’m here,” she said. “My sons gave everything, and I honour them by helping others.” Her courage inspires colleagues and patients alike.

A nurse whose son serves in combat reflected similar resolve: “Every time my phone rings, my heart skips a beat. But when I’m here, my focus is on my patients.

It’s how I cope.”

The unwavering dedication of Shaare Zedek’s staff, is a profound testament to the strength of the human spirit. They remind us that even in darkness, light and hope can prevail. continued overleaf...

Above: Yishai (L) and Noam Slotki Left: Sarah Goldberg, Talia Slotiki, President Isaac Herzog, Rabbi Shmuel Slotki and Professor Ofer Merin

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While war casts its shadow over daily life in Israel, Shaare Zedek’s staff remain beacons of stability and care. Their courage and compassion inspire not just Jerusalem but all who hear their story.

“We can’t control what’s happening out there,” one staff member said, “but we can control how we respond. And here, we respond by saving lives.”

Their selflessness and perseverance stand as a powerful example of humanity at its best.

Top: Memorial Books at the shiva house Noam (L) and Yishai Slotki Above: The Slotki family at Yishai and Avia’s wedding Below: Twins Yishai and Yonatan Photos courtesy Slotki family

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PATRONAGE

BECOME A PATRON OF SHAARE ZEDEK UK Our Major Donors are the backbone of Shaare Zedek UK, giving a minimum annual donation of £3,000.

LEVELS OF PATRONAGE

Our purpose is to raise funds for the life saving work of Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem.

YOUNG PATRON (18–35)

For over 120 years, Shaare Zedek has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Jerusalem, delivering world-class treatment with unwavering compassion.

Renowned as the ‘Hospital with a Heart’, the hospital cares for everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, bringing hope and healing to more than one million patients each year. The generosity of the U.K. community is remarkable, and we are fortunate to have a dedicated group of Patrons supporting our mission – hope for us, hope for Israel, and hope for the world.

Please consider joining one of our committed giving programmes and be part of something incredible.

By joining a giving programme your engagement and support will help us purchase the very best equipment, plan growth and development of the hospital and most importantly save lives.

A minimum contribution of £1,000 per year (£83.33 a month)

FRIENDS

A minimum contribution of £3,000 or more per year (£250 a month)

PATRON

A minimum contribution of £7,500 or more per year (£625 a month)

BENEFACTOR

A minimum contribution of £25,000 or more per year (£2,083.33 a month)

For more information visit our website or contact Oshrit@shaarezedek.org.uk shaarezedek.org.uk 07

FROM THE TRAUMA UNIT TO THE DELIVERY ROOM:

GILAD RACHAMIM AVIAD’S REMARKABLE JOURNEY Gilad’s story is one of resilience and survival. From the battlefield of Gaza to the delivery room at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, his journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

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news from his wife Miriam, she was pregnant. The joy of impending fatherhood was soon overshadowed by the harrowing reality of his injuries.

Just a day earlier, Gilad had received the most amazing

Gilad’s recovery journey was gruelling. Multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation followed. The physical healing was challenging, but the mental toll of such trauma was profound and continues to this day.

n the early weeks of the war, Gilad was serving as a reservist in Khan Yunis. When shrapnel from a rocket attack pierced his chest, narrowly missing his heart, but causing severe damage to his diaphragm and stomach. Gilad was evacuated by helicopter to Shaare Zedek, where doctors fought to save his life.

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NEWS & MEDICAL FIRSTS

Reflecting on his arrival at Shaare Zedek, Gilad recalls the swift actions of the medical team that stabilized his condition and saved his life. “They were incredible,” he says. “They acted quickly to save my life, and they took care of Miriam, too. She was my rock.

Calm, strong, and supportive.”

“I focused on my wife and our unborn child,” he shares. “I wanted to be there for them, so I worked hard to heal. Miriam’s strength and unwavering support gave me the motivation I needed.”

And nine months later, Gilad returned to Shaare Zedek under vastly different circumstances.

This time to welcome his son into the world. The same hospital where he had fought for his life became the setting for one of his happiest moments.

“It was surreal,” he says. “Seeing the same medical team that saved me now celebrating with me –

it was overwhelming. They not only preserved my life but were part of this incredible new chapter.”

Gilad is filled with gratitude for the care and compassion of the Shaare Zedek staff and shared; “To anyone going through tough times, I’d say hold on to hope and focus on what keeps you going,” “For me, it was my wife and our unborn child. I’m deeply grateful for the incredible team at Shaare Zedek and pray we meet again only for joyful occasions like these.”

To keep up to date with our latest stories, follow us on social media @shaarezedekuk

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A FIRST IN ISRAEL: SHAARE ZEDEK IMPLANTS REVOLUTIONARY AORTIC VALVE

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haare Zedek Medical Center has achieved a major milestone as the first in Israel and among the first in the world to implant a cutting-edge aortic valve that simplifies future heart artery catheterizations.

Leading the Way in Cardiac Innovation The groundbreaking procedure was performed by Professor Danny Dvir, Head of the Catheterization Unit at the Jesselson Integrated Heart Center.

The new valve, developed by Medtronic and previously implanted only in the United States, offers easier access to heart arteries, making subsequent catheterizations significantly more convenient. Prof. Dvir shared, “Our catheterization unit specializes in complex procedures and valve

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implants via catheter. We are honoured to be the first centre outside the U.S. to use this advanced valve technology.”

A Global Hub for Advanced Cardiac Care Adding to the accomplishment, Professor Michael Glikson, Director of the Jesselson Integrated Heart Center, stated, “Shaare Zedek is renowned for performing complex procedures with the most advanced technologies. As a global training and educational hub, we are committed to shaping the future of cardiac care in Israel and beyond.”

A Commitment to Excellence With this achievement, Shaare Zedek continues to push the boundaries of cardiac innovation, ensuring that patients receive the safest and most advanced treatment options available.

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TRANSFORMING

BREAST SURGERY

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Faster, Gentler Approach Shaare Zedek’s Anat and Amnon Shashua Breast Health Center has introduced a revolutionary surgical technique that eliminates the need for general anaesthesia, enabling faster recovery and fewer side effects for women undergoing breast surgery.

A Collaborative Breakthrough This innovative approach was pioneered by Dr Yahelli Miller, Head of the Breast Surgery Unit, and Dr Ariel Grass, a senior anaesthesiologist specialising in regional anaesthesia and pain management. By combining advanced nerve blocks with sedatives, the method allows patients to achieve a calm and deep sleep-like state during surgery, significantly reducing pain and post-operative discomfort.

Personalised Care for Faster Recovery “Breast cancer treatment is highly personalised, and now we’ve extended that approach to anaesthesia,” explains Dr Miller.

While not suitable for every case,

many women benefit from this technique, even during complex, lengthy surgeries like breast reconstruction. Patients wake up quickly, feel alert, and can return to their daily routines much sooner. Dr Grass highlights the added benefits: “Traditional breast surgeries often rely on opioid pain relievers like morphine, but our approach eliminates the need for long-term opioid use and reduces the amount of anaesthetic agents required. This means no artificial ventilation and a safer, more comfortable recovery experience.”

Leading the Way in Women’s Health This groundbreaking advancement underscores Shaare Zedek’s commitment to innovation and patient-centred care, offering women a safer, less invasive option for breast surgery. With this milestone, Shaare Zedek continues to set new standards in healthcare, improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life for patients.

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ELISHA MEIDAN A STORY OF SURVIVAL, RESILIENCE & HOPE

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NEWS & MEDICAL FIRSTS

Elisha Meidan’s story is one of resilience and strength.

Critically injured in a devastating explosion in Gaza, Elisha’s journey to recovery has been nothing short of miraculous, a testament to his determination and the dedication of those who cared for him.

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lisha was brought to Shaare Zedek with extensive injuries and endured multiple surgeries both orthopaedic and plastic. He had to undergo the amputation of both his legs, braved recurrent infections, severe pain, and a long road of uncertainty. However, after 53 days Elisha took his first steps, figuratively towards a new chapter, transitioning to rehabilitation at Tel Hashomer Sheba Medical Center.

without all of you,” he told the staff.

From the paramedics to the doctors, nurses, and even the cleaners, Elisha expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling them “the dream team” for any critically injured patient.

As he departed Shaare Zedek, Elisha reflected on the moments that saved his life. “There’s no way I would be this healthy, joyful, and optimistic

Shaare Zedek’s Director General, Professor Ofer Merin, echoed their sentiments. “Your energy and tenacity have been extraordinary. So much of your recovery is down to your spirit, paired with the team’s dedication.

Our hope is to see all the wounded soldiers leave here soon, visiting only in good health.”

The staff, deeply moved by his words and bravery, gathered to send him off. “We met a true combat hero,” they said. “His resilience inspired us all.

While we sought to strengthen him, he gave us strength instead. From the depths of our hearts, we wish him a speedy recovery.”

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Elisha’s story goes beyond survival; it’s one of extraordinary perspective. Now undergoing rehabilitation, he has not only accepted his new reality but embraced it. Speaking candidly about the explosion in Beit Hanoun that claimed his legs and the lives of his friends, Elisha shared, “At that moment, I knew I’d lost my legs. Shrapnel had pierced my lungs and intestines; my hearing was damaged. My legs were blown off, and the walls of the building fell on us. We lay under the rubble with burns and amputations, waiting to be rescued.”

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Four days later, Elisha awoke in Shaare Zedek and immediately grasped the gravity of his condition: no legs, and the loss of dear friends. Yet his spirit remained unbroken. “I developed infections, and my body fought to overcome them, leading to severe pain and high fever,” he recounted. But rather than despair, Elisha chose to see his situation as a unique journey.

“I’m starting to understand my new life. I see it as a mid-life adventure at 45. Not many people receive such a gift. If I could choose, of course, I’d choose to have my legs.

But this is my reality. At first, they

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thought I was dead. I said Shema Yisrael and Vidui, so everything I’ve received since is a gift. I’m happy with the body that remains, it’s a new adventure.”

Elisha Meidan’s story is not just one of survival; it is a powerful reminder

Surrounded by heroes – Elisha Meidan with the incredible staff who supported him throughout his recovery at Shaare Zedek.

of the human spirit’s capacity to find light in the darkest of moments. His courage, gratitude, and optimism continue to inspire everyone he encounters, from the soldiers who saved him to the medical team who treated him and now, all of us.

Without the right equipment our medical teams simply cannot do their jobs. Your donations make the ground-breaking medical care possible. Donate today by visiting shaarezedek.org.uk shaarezedek.org.uk 15

REFLECTIONS ON SHAARE ZEDEK:

A VISIT MARKED

BY WAR AND RESILIENCE In June 2024, after many years, I returned to visit Shaare Zedek Medical Center. The hospital has always held a special place in my heart, having welcomed two of my grandchildren into the world 17 and 15 years ago.

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s I stepped through the newly designed entrance, I was immediately struck by a powerful and deeply moving sight.

A large semi-circular table adorned with photographs of husbands, sons, fathers of staff, and staff members who had tragically lost their lives in the ongoing war. Candles and red poppies surrounded their faces, a solemn tribute that took my breath away. In that moment, my purpose

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for visiting the hospital became even more poignant.

The changes within Shaare Zedek over the years have been remarkable. What were once the newest additions, the Cardiac Unit, Maternity Unit, Children’s Hospital, and underground A&E are now well-established and deeply valued. Today, the hospital boasts a state-of-the-art Cancer Wing, which, despite the constant activity within the medical centre, exudes a sense of healing and tranquillity.

REFLECTIONS

Yet, during my visit, it was the war that defined my experience. I was shown the carefully structured process through which wounded soldiers are brought into the hospital. They arrive through a separate, private entrance, ensuring they receive immediate care while being shielded from public view, affording them the dignity and space they need to begin their recovery.

One of the most innovative and striking developments was the transformation of an underground garage into an emergency intensive care facility with 80 beds. In the event of an attack, the hospital receives some advance warning and can swiftly relocate patients to this reinforced area, ensuring their safety and continuity of care.

As I left Shaare Zedek, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and admiration for this institution,

which has served the people of Jerusalem tirelessly through both peace and war. It continues to evolve, adapting to the everchanging needs of its patients with unwavering dedication.

I am deeply grateful to Audrey Gross, for guiding me through the hospital and for concluding our visit in the newly opened café with a much needed and delicious coffee. As I reflect on my time at Shaare Zedek, I hold onto hope that my next visit will take place in a time of peace.

Margot Lew

If you have your own Shaare Zedek story to tell, get in touch with katie@shaarezedek.org.uk shaarezedek.org.uk 17

ANITA RAYMOND:

A LIFELONG LOVE FOR SHAARE ZEDEK For Anita Raymond, Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem was never just a workplace it was a home, a calling, and a source of lifelong love and pride.

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s a nurse who trained under the legendary Schwester Selma, Anita’s connection to the hospital runs deep, shaped by the values of care, dedication, and unwavering compassion that defined her years of service.

A Nurse in the Making Anita’s journey at Shaare Zedek began when she trained under Schwester Selma, the hospital’s first Head Nurse. Arriving from Germany in 1916, Schwester Selma dedicated her life to

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building a nursing tradition rooted in kindness, discipline, and excellence. Under her guidance,

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Anita learned not just the technical skills of nursing but also the ethos of treating every patient with dignity and care.

During her training, Anita also came under the leadership of Professor Slesinger, the hospital’s Director General at the time.

His unwavering commitment to medical excellence further shaped her understanding of the profession and instilled in her a deep respect for the role of healthcare in the community.

A Life of Dedication and Friendship Throughout her career, Anita worked tirelessly, becoming an integral part of the hospital’s close-knit medical team.

She witnessed firsthand the hospital’s growth, its resilience during challenging times, and its unwavering mission to serve the people of Jerusalem. From bustling emergency rooms to quiet moments comforting patients, every experience deepened her love for the place that had become her second home.

But what made her time at Shaare Zedek truly special was the extraordinary group of nurses she worked alongside.

The nursing staff formed a close sisterhood, supporting each other through long shifts, emotional challenges, and moments of triumph. “We weren’t just colleagues; we were family,” Anita reflects.

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“The friendships we built carried us through the toughest days and made the best ones even more meaningful.”

These bonds have stood the test of time. Anita remains in touch with several of her fellow nurses, sharing memories, laughter, and a deep, unspoken understanding of the experiences that shaped them.

“We still talk, still reminisce about those days. Even now, all these years later, the connection hasn’t faded.”

An Enduring Affection Even after leaving Shaare Zedek, Anita’s heart never truly departed from the hospital’s halls. She

fondly remembers many of the old employees, cherishing the friendships and memories forged over the years. She continues to follow the hospital’s progress with immense pride, marvelling at how it has grown while still holding onto its founding values.

Today, Shaare Zedek stands as Jerusalem’s largest and fastestgrowing hospital, known for its cutting-edge medicine and compassionate care. And though Anita may no longer walk its corridors as a nurse, her love and affinity for the institution remain as strong as ever.

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

SUPPORTERS

MAKING A DIFFERENCE To all our incredible supporters, whether you ran, cycled, knitted, or took on a creative challenge, thank you for your dedication and generosity. Your efforts have not only raised vital funds for Shaare Zedek but have also brought comfort, joy, and hope to countless patients and their families. We are truly grateful for your commitment to making a difference.

Thank you to Alain Stechler & Rabbi Geoffrey Hyman for taking on the Ride London 100 Mile Cycle Challenge and raising an incredible £20,714.

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Thank you to Josh Forman and Nethanel Rosen for their amazing efforts in the Royal Parks Half Marathon, raising a combined total of £3,207.

Thank you to Sam, our ‘Shaare the Love’ Bar Mitzvah fundraiser who cycled between all the Premier League football stadiums in London, in less than 24 hours and raised a fantastic £3,529!

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

A huge thank you also to Project Impact, Yavneh College, and Borehamwood & Elstree Synagogue for creating beautiful motivational bracelets and cards for our staff and patients.

If you feel inspired to support Shaare Zedek UK, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with Emma at emma@shaarezedek.org.uk to find out how you can get involved and make a difference. shaarezedek.org.uk 23

Thank you to our incredible knitting communities led by: Joanna Sacks and the Selig Court Knitters, Hendon.

Naomi Nathan and the Knitting & Stitching group, Borehamwood.

Jacqueline Shapiro and the Stenecourt Stitchers, Manchester.

Pictured below.

Every effort, every mile, every stitch, and every heartfelt message makes a difference. Thank you all!

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Over the past year, we’ve hosted some fantastic events, from our inaugural Quiz Night and Professional Networking Evening to an insightful discussion on Antisemitism in Sport and engaging Parlour Evenings.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

It’s been wonderful to see so many of you come together to support Shaare Zedek, and we can’t wait to welcome you to even more exciting events this year.

Top: (L-R) David Bernstein, Jonathan Metliss, Phil Korklin, Claudia Mendoza, Graham Miller, Joe Jacobson Above: Audrey Gross delivering an update on the work of the hospital Left: Gail’s Force - our winning Quiz Team 2023 Bottom left: Magnificent 7, our winning Quiz Team, 2024

To keep up to date with our latest stories, follow us on social media @shaarezedekuk

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UK VISITS

TO THE HOSPITAL “Visiting the underground ICU unit and cancer centre at Shaare Zedek and learning about the life-changing treatments they provide, especially amid the ongoing war in Gaza and Lebanon gave me a profound understanding of what makes Shaare Zedek so unique.

It is far more than just a hospital; it is a pillar of its community, offering transformational care that impacts not only patients but also their families.”

Michael Zelouf

“Shaare Zedek has been a part of my family’s life in so many meaningful ways. Saving my husband’s life in an emergency, welcoming two of my grandchildren into the world, and now I take great pride in knowing it is where my son-inlaw works, in the Department of Orthopaedics.

I was so impressed when I visited the hospital and saw firsthand the incredible work, it reinforced my desire to volunteer for Shaare Zedek UK. It made me so proud of what they have achieved already and their aspirations for the future.”

Michelle Minsky

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“Our visit to Shaare Zedek was truly inspiring. As a dedicated trustee for 15 years, visiting the hospital especially during these challenging times, felt more meaningful than ever. Audrey was a phenomenal guide, and our trip only deepened my commitment to supporting this incredible charity and making a difference for this wonderful hospital.”

UK VISITS TO THE HOSPITAL

Alain & Helen Stechler – Honorary Treasurer

“Visiting Shaare Zedek Medical Center last year was an unforgettable experience.

I was truly inspired by the worldclass facilities, the warmth and dedication of the staff, and the hospital’s unwavering commitment to saving lives.

Seeing their work firsthand has only strengthened my passion for sharing their mission with our UK community and raising the vital funds needed to support this incredible institution.”

Emma Forman – Head of Fundraising and Engagement

“Our tour was fantastic. The new cancer department was both impressive and uplifting, and visiting the baby unit was a heartwarming experience.

They were so grateful for the 100+ hats we donated.”

Avril Blasebalk

Are you planning a trip to Israel this year? Get in touch with katie@shaarezedek.org.uk to arrange a visit to Shaare Zedek shaarezedek.org.uk 27

SHAARE THE LOVE CELEBRATE AND GIVE BACK

TURN YOUR SPECIAL MOMENTS INTO LIFE-SAVING SUPPORT Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, or just a reason to gather friends, every celebration is an opportunity to make a difference. With our Shaare the Love programme, you can turn your special occasions into moments of impact by fundraising for Shaare Zedek UK. Whether you host a bridge night, bake sale, coffee morning, or something completely unique, your generosity will directly support world-class patient care, cuttingedge medical advancements, and life-saving treatments.

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HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED Setting up a fundraiser is easy, and every effort counts. Here are some ideas to get you started: Host a Themed Dinner Party: Invite friends and family over for a meal and ask for donations instead of gifts.

Plan a Fitness Challenge: Organize a sponsored run, cycle, or yoga session.

Bake for a Cause: Hold a bake sale at your home, workplace, or local community space.

Celebrate with Meaning: Mark your birthday, anniversary, or special occasion by asking for donations in lieu of presents.

Game for Good: Set up a charity poker night, trivia contest, or bridge tournament.

CELEBRATIONS

WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS By fundraising for Shaare Zedek UK, you can help: Expand life-saving treatments for critically ill patients Support vital research into groundbreaking medical solutions Provide compassionate care for every patient who walks through the doors of Shaare Zedek Medical Center

SHAARE THE LOVE Setting up your own fundraiser is simple, fun, and impactful. Every celebration is a chance to ‘Shaare the Love’ and bring hope to those in need.

“We asked our friends and family to make donations to Shaare Zedek because we didn’t need anything and knowing our celebration was helping patients in need made the event even more special.”

“When war broke out in Israel, Arielle wanted to do something to help, she organised her own bake sale and all proceeds went to Shaare Zedek.”

Get started today by visiting shaarezedek.org.uk or reaching out to emma@shaarezedek.org.uk Let’s turn your milestones into miracles! shaarezedek.org.uk 29

CELEBRATING

WITH SHAARE ZEDEK A huge thank you to our wonderful supporters who chose to share their special celebrations with us during the last year.

Tamara Godley marked her Bat Mitzvah by raising funds for Shaare Zedek, making her milestone even more meaningful.

© Bettina J

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Michael Curtis celebrated his 70th birthday while supporting our vital work.

Thrilled to celebrate Pauline Roberts’ conversion to Judaism! It has been a long but deeply rewarding journey, and she was delighted to share it with us. Mazal Tov.

CELEBRATIONS

Mazeltov to Margery Cohen on her special birthday.

Betty Shepherd marked an incredible 90th birthday.

Jacqueline and Malcolm Shapiro recently celebrated their Emerald Wedding Anniversary.

We thank you all for your kindness and generosity!

If you have a special occasion coming up and would like to make it even more meaningful, get in touch with emma@shaarezedek.org.uk to discuss our ‘Shaare the love’ celebrations programme. shaarezedek.org.uk 31

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Join us for one or more of our events this year. A great way to support the charity whilst also having fun with friends and family.

Empowering Jewish Identity An evening with author and educator, Ben M. Freeman & Middle East and Foreign Policy analyst, Dr Efrat Sopher.

Thursday 15th May 2025 To register your interest please get in contact with emma@shaarezedek.org.uk

Royal Parks Half Marathon Sunday 12th October 2025 Join #TeamSZUK and raise for the Royal Parks Half Marathon.

3 places available.

GET INVOLVED We need you! Join a Shaare Zedek Committee and make a difference for the charity that you love. Could this be you?

Connections across communities to engage new supporters Specialist knowledge of the medical community to help craft an event that resonates Networks in the healthcare sector to spread the word, sell tickets, and secure sponsorships.

For information on any of the events listed above please visit shaarezedek.org.uk or get in touch with emma@shaarezedek.org.uk You can donate to Shaare Zedek UK by phone, online, or direct to our bank: HSBC Sort Code 40-03-11 Account no. 31622927 Shaare Zedek UK 4 Theobald Court, Theobald Street, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 4RN 020 8201 8933 | shaarezedek.org.uk

Charity Number: 1143272

Individuals who have a passion for giving back and supporting lifesaving work in Jerusalem People with event planning and organisational skills to help shape our events programme Creativity and fresh ideas to make a difference