Ohad's journey to life!

Thursday, July 23, 2015 | Israel Today Staff

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Protective Edge changed the lives of many people. In the case of Sergeant Ohad Ben Yishai, his life turned upside down.

Ohad served in the Golani Brigade's elite Egoz unit. He and his unit's comrades were involved in a brutal battle in Gaza's Shuja’iyya neighbourhood, which later became known as the bloodiest battle with Hamas during Protective Edge, with Hamas. Thirteen soldiers lost their lives during the battle and many were injured. Ohad suffered a serious shrapnel wound of his head and was defined as the most seriously injured soldier during the operation. On his arrival at hospital his condition was so serious that the doctors did not think he would make it through the night.

After an unrelenting battle to stabilize Ohad, that lasted a few weeks, Ohad rewarded their efforts when he regained consciousness.

Ohad’s recovery process is far from over, but he has shown great progress. At the beginning he was not able to talk, lift his own head, not to mention walking or using his hands. In addition his memory was badly impaired. Ohad’s recovery journey resembles a baby's learning to walk and talk, it is like he was "born again". His speech and language therapist and physiotherapist are only a couple of the people standing by him, helping and encouraging him through this long and difficult process. However he wouldn’t have gotten this far without the love and support of his parents.

It is a known fact that to be accepted into an elite unit, more than physical fitness alone is needed. Having a tough and and ambitious character are essential personal traits are also needed. No doubt Ohad has the personal character and is made of the right material. He is a fighter and does not plan to surrender to his condition but is ready to fight for his life! Little by little he is making progress having started to talk and also starting to walk.

We have heard many stories about soldiers that are in the recovery process after suffering injuries during Protective Edge. They all have something in common and that is their will to live and do everything in their power to reach their goal.

These young men set examples for us, when you aim high and your faith is strong you can achieve anything you wish for!

This was a blog post from "Support Israeli Soldiers" from our "Support Israel" section. We appreciate every donation. In order to help the Land of Israel and her residents see "Support Israel".

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Thursday, July 23, 2015