Hostage Families Find Solace in Support Weekend
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Families of hostages killed on October 7th gathered for a support weekend in Rosh Pina, organized by the Prime Minister's Office Hostages Directorate and the "One Family" association. The event provides therapeutic activities and a shared space for processing grief after prolonged uncertainty. Participants, including mothers Dekla Shimris and Avishag Libman, shared their unique struggles and found solace in mutual understanding and support.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- A support weekend in Rosh Pina offered solace to families of hostages killed on October 7th.
- The event, organized by the Hostages Directorate and "One Family," provides therapeutic activities.
- Families face a unique grief process after prolonged uncertainty about their loved ones' fates.
- Dekla Shimris described the group as "the saddest in Israel" due to their dual trauma.
- Avishag Libman emphasized the deep connection and mutual respect among the bereaved families.
A special weekend retreat in Rosh Pina, organized by the Prime Minister's Office Hostages Directorate and the "One Family" association, is providing a much-needed respite for families of hostages who were killed. The event offers therapeutic workshops, support groups, nature trips, lectures, and a performance by singer Idan Haviv, with a deliberately relaxed schedule.
Yaron Cohen, head of the Hostages Directorate, noted the public's misconception that the issue ended with the return of some hostages. He explained that for families of those killed, the trauma and processing of loss are just beginning, especially after prolonged periods of uncertainty and psychological warfare. Cohen emphasized the state's moral obligation to continue supporting these families.
Dekla Shimris, mother of Alon Shimris, who was killed after being taken hostage, described the group as "the saddest in Israel." She highlighted the unique pain of losing a child after enduring prolonged uncertainty about their fate. Shimris shared her personal experience of hoping for her son's return even after official notification of his death, a hope that only ended when all hostages were accounted for.
Avishag Libman, mother of Elyakim Libman, who was killed at the Nova music festival and initially presumed a hostage, also spoke about the profound connection formed among the families. She stressed that despite differing political views, mutual respect prevails, and they find comfort in shared understanding and the ability to express their grief and joy freely.
The weekend aims to provide a safe space for these families to connect, share their experiences, and begin rebuilding their lives. Navah Formansky from "One Family" highlighted the long-term effects of such loss, including marital strain and medical issues, and the importance of tailored support, especially for grandparents who often feel overlooked.
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