Wounded Soldier Inspires Students at Nir Etzion School Hackathon
- RHCC
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
In a powerful moment of resilience and innovation, students at the Nir Etzion Elementary School welcomed a true hero, Eli*, a soldier who defied the odds after being critically wounded in combat and saved at Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam). During a special Hackathon dedicated to supporting wounded soldiers, Eli witnessed firsthand the students’ ingenuity as they unveiled groundbreaking solutions designed to help injured soldiers rebuild their lives.
A few months ago, during the war, Eli, a soldier from a classified unit, sustained a severe head injury in Lebanon. For weeks, his life hung in the balance, with even the most experienced neurosurgeons uncertain about his survival. Against all odds, Eli woke up and began his arduous journey to recovery.
Dr. Lior Lev Tov, a neurosurgeon at Rambam, was one of the doctors who treated Eli and played a crucial role in his recovery. Lev Tov invited Eli to the event to inspire the young participants by encouraging them to believe in themselves, persevere through challenges, and aspire to make a difference.
Eli traveled from Beit Loewenstein Rehabilitation Center, in Raanana by ambulance and arrived at the school to a standing ovation from students and faculty. The children eagerly showcased their innovative projects, designed to address the needs of wounded soldiers and improve their quality of life both in the field and throughout the rehabilitation process.
“We are incredibly moved to have Eli here with us today,” says Lev Tov whose children attend the school south of Haifa. “He was one of the most severely wounded soldiers we treated at Rambam, and we fought for his life. To see him standing here, speaking, and inspiring these young minds is nothing short of remarkable. The students have demonstrated outstanding creativity and empathy in developing practical solutions for real-world challenges, and it is inspiring to witness the next generation in action.”
Hedva Ben Yashar, Principal of the school, highlighted the broader significance of the event: “This initiative is about fostering a deep connection between our students and the community. Through an innovative school hackathon, students developed technological solutions for the difficulties faced by wounded IDF soldiers. This project, born out of a sense of duty and compassion, has empowered students to engage with real problems and create ideas that can enhance the lives of those who have sacrificed for our country.”
When Eli addressed the students and their families, his words resonated deeply, leaving no dry eyes in the room. “I am incredibly touched to be here,” he says. “The real stars are these children, who are thinking about these projects and striving to make a difference. This is Zionism—believing in yourself, overcoming every obstacle, and embracing challenges with a smile. I tell myself every day, ‘What a gift this life is.’ Because those who are alive have no right not to smile. And a smile—that is the secret weapon of the people of Israel.”
The event served as a powerful reminder of resilience, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of the next generation, ensuring that those who have sacrificed for their country receive the support and recognition they deserve.
*Name has been changed to protect the patient's privacy.