Israeli Paramedic Injured in Gaza Finds Healing by Returning to Work

Robert Hafizov, 37, was wounded by grenade shrapnel during combat in Khan Yunis in late December 2023. Despite physical recovery, he struggled deeply with post-traumatic stress and could not be near his family due to constant anxiety and hypervigilance. A balloon popping on his daughter’s birthday triggered a severe reaction, forcing him to ask his wife and children to leave the house because he could not tolerate noise or be with them.

Hafizov served as a combat medic in the Golani Brigade and was deployed to secure special forces operations in Gaza. After being injured, he managed his own evacuation despite his wounds. One shrapnel piece remains lodged near a nerve in his leg, as removal could cause greater damage. Though he used crutches for three months, he says the hardest part was returning home and coping with the psychological impact, which affected his ability to be a father and husband.

His wife joined support groups for spouses of wounded soldiers, helping her understand his condition. Hafizov underwent extensive rehabilitation including physical therapy, occupational therapy, emotional support, and clinical training. With assistance from the IDF Disabled Veterans Organization and Beit HaLochem, he secured a part-time nursing position at Meuhedet Health Services in southern Tel Aviv.

Returning to work as a nurse has been central to his recovery, restoring his identity and purpose. He now balances treatment for his trauma and pain with his professional duties. Hafizov credits his son’s encouragement to resume work as a turning point. He emphasizes that the war changed how he relates to patients, becoming more attuned to unspoken pain and the need for emotional support. Despite ongoing challenges, he finds healing in caring for others and feels reborn in his role as a nurse.