November 7, 2024 – In a moment that left the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) staff in awe, M., a 22-year-old soldier from an elite IDF unit who was critically injured in Lebanon, regained consciousness at Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel after a 30-day battle for survival. His first words—a polite request for cold water—sparked both disbelief and joy among the nurses and doctors who had fought tirelessly to keep him alive.
Soldier "M" being wheeled through Rambam's Fortified Underground Emergency Hospital from the ICU, draped in the signed Israeli flag.
Photography: Rambam HCC
M. was airlifted to Rambam just over a month ago, following a severe multi-system injury sustained in combat. Arriving under life-threatening conditions, he immediately underwent a series of surgeries. He was ventilated and sedated in the ICU. Osnat Aspis, head nurse of the ICU at Rambam, shared, "Two days ago, at ten o'clock at night, as one of the nurses passed by his bed, she suddenly heard something she didn’t understand at first—M. had regained consciousness, and the first thing he said politely was, ‘I want cold water.’” The nurse, in disbelief at how clearly he spoke, asked him to repeat his words. “The joy in the ward was immense, because after 30 days, everyone felt connected to M."
Throughout his journey, M.'s family and fellow soldiers have shown unwavering support. His mother maintained a constant presence at his bedside, where she hung an Israeli flag as a symbol of hope and resilience. Visitors—including friends, family, fellow unit members, and even prominent figures such as Israel's President Issac Herzog, Ministers Barkat and Gallant, and IDF generals—added signatures and messages of encouragement to the flag. IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Hagari also paid a visit, showing support for M. and his family.
M.'s journey is a testament to the dedication of Rambam’s medical team, the love of his family, and the solidarity of a country rallying around its soldiers.