As Hamas war rages, meet the doctors treating IDF soldiers

Dr. Yael Hefner: "This is what we train for, what we grew up with, and what we excel at—rescue and civil assistance are our top priorities."

  (photo credit: INGIMAGE)
(photo credit: INGIMAGE)

The war has unveiled stories of heroism from various sectors, with medical teams playing a significant role in mobilizing and contributing to the country.

  (credit: Courtesy of the photographer)
(credit: Courtesy of the photographer)

Dr. D., a resident of Tel Aviv, is a specialist at Wolfson Medical Center. While being a married father of two, he also serves as a fighter in the Air Force, currently stationed in the south of the country. Meanwhile, his wife, S., works as a pediatrician at Wolfson, tirelessly providing life-saving medical treatment to children.

"On the first day of the fighting, I had the opportunity to treat three patients injured in the events of October 7 in the Gaza Strip. I have participated in various activities with the unit, where we had the privilege of treating the wounded and saving lives. I am amazed by the incredible fighters I meet in all sectors, their high morale, and indescribable fighting spirit. It's inspiring to witness the entire country rallying and mobilizing in support of IDF soldiers. It provides tremendous support and strength in the field," Dr. D. shared.

'We have learned from the horrors in the Gaza Strip'

Yishai Kuperman, a nurse in the pediatric intensive care unit at the Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, serves in the reserves in the Spatial Defense Battalion of Gush Talmonim in the Ephraim Brigade. He is stationed in the area of Kerem Re'im, where he ensures security incidents are neutralized before escalation.

"We have learned from the horrors in the Gaza Strip and are doing everything in our capacity to prevent them. We prioritize training, familiarizing ourselves with the territory, arming, defense, and anything that can give us an advantage over the enemy," he said. 

Kuperman added, "As an intensive care nurse, combat medic, and military paramedic instructor, I am responsible for training the staff in first aid and mental first aid—a field I studied during my master's degree. We strive to maintain high morale and express our gratitude to the people of Israel for their overwhelming support and love."

Major (res.) Dr. Yael Hefner, a senior internist at Meir Medical Center is currently conducting a subspecialty in the pulmonary department. She was called into reserves when the attack broke out.

As a medical officer for the Home Front Command, she didn't hesitate to join her regiment.

'This is what we train for'

  (credit: Privet)
(credit: Privet)

"This is what we train for, what we grew up with, and what we excel at—rescue and civil assistance are our top priorities. We will continue to be prepared for any scenario," she proudly stated.

"The support we receive from the rear is incredible and empowering," said Dr. Hefner.

"Every time I check my cell phone, I discover messages from colleagues in the pulmonary and internal medicine departments, which was once my second home," she continued. "Colleagues from all sectors express concern for my well-being and send their warm regards. I am here with an amazing battalion of soldiers who enlisted for the mission without hesitation. Some are exceptional doctors, and there is also a wonderful paramedic who will soon complete her nursing studies. Together, I am confident that we will emerge as winners."

The Jerusalem Post and OneFamily are working together to help support the victims of the Hamas massacre and the soldiers of Israel who have been drafted to ensure that it never happens again.

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