Widows of War Find Solace and Support on Bulgarian Retreat

Hundreds of Israeli women have had their lives irrevocably altered since October 7th, facing deep grief, daily longing, and profound loneliness. In response, the "One Family" organization facilitated a therapeutic retreat in the picturesque Bulgarian town of Bansko for a group of war widows. This initiative provided a safe space for them to pause, rest, mourn, and find strength for the future. Reporter Shani Weizman accompanied the group for a special documentary project.

Far from the pitying glances and daily routines of home, the participants found a community that understood them implicitly. "There's a huge void at home," shared Shir Rubel, widow of Sergeant Major Yaniv Yitzhak Oren, describing her daily struggles. "Someone you loved was killed. I used to know how he sounded when he sneezed, his footsteps approaching. Suddenly, there's just silence, emptiness, and loneliness."

The retreat in Bulgaria combined scenic landscapes with professional therapeutic workshops in movement and writing. Participants openly discussed the difficulty of accepting the title "widow," their loss of trust, and the difficult questions they grapple with. "The thought, 'Am I a widow?' is incomprehensible. I was sure I would be the one standing between us," said Nira Sharabi, whose husband Yossi Sharabi was abducted from Kibbutz Be'eri and murdered in captivity. "I used to look forward, we talked about retirement and what life would look like. Today, I look at tomorrow, which is also uncertain."

Amidst the painful conversations and tears, moments of comfort, dark humor, and liberating laughter also emerged. Evenings were spent with music, open discussions, and toasts to life. "I will forever live a life I didn't choose. I want to do the maximum, but I can never make the choice to live with him," stated Tair Dinur, widow of Sergeant Major Yuval Gabai.

For these women, the group became a new safety net. "There's magic here, everything is more relaxed," shared Koral Silko, widow of Major Natzar Simchi. "I don't need to explain, and there are no strange looks." While the Bulgarian journey does not end their grief, it offered the women a higher vantage point, an opportunity to reflect on their path, lift their heads, and continue walking together.