United Hatzalah Marks 20 Years with Jerusalem Concert and Defibrillator Drive
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
United Hatzalah celebrated its 20th anniversary with a large concert in Jerusalem, featuring prominent singers and honoring volunteers. A campaign was launched to raise funds for 738 defibrillators, inspired by a hostage survivor's captivity.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- United Hatzalah held a sold-out 20th-anniversary concert in Jerusalem.
- The event honored thousands of volunteers and featured major singers.
- A campaign was launched to acquire 738 defibrillators.
- The drive was inspired by a hostage survivor's 738 days in captivity.
United Hatzalah, an Israeli emergency medical services organization, held its annual Sukkot event at Jerusalem's Sultan's Pool, drawing approximately 6,400 attendees to a sold-out performance. The event celebrated the organization's 20th anniversary and honored its thousands of volunteers. The evening featured performances by prominent Jewish and Israeli singers, including Avraham Fried, Yaakov Shwekey, Zusha, Yishai Ribo, and Yair Elitzur.
A particularly moving moment occurred when Bar Kupferstein, who was held captive by Hamas for 738 days, appeared on stage with his family. In response, United Hatzalah President and Founder Eli Beer announced a campaign to procure 738 life-saving defibrillators, one for each day Kupferstein was in captivity. Beer stated, "Tonight, we are turning your donations into actual heartbeats." Kupferstein later performed a song with Yair Elitzur, reflecting on his experiences and expressing hope and gratitude.
The concert served as the kickoff for the organization's year-long 20th-anniversary celebrations. United Hatzalah highlighted the dedication of its volunteers, including doctors, paramedics, and EMTs, who provide rapid initial medical response across Israel. Over its two decades of operation, the organization has provided medical assistance to millions of people.
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