Young Cancer Survivors Share Healing Journey on Dutch Sailing Trip Amid Personal Losses
A group of young cancer survivors embarked on an eight-day sailing trip off the coast of the Netherlands organized by the Israeli nonprofit "Bigger Than Life." Among them was 21-year-old Roni Hamburger, who battled Hodgkin's lymphoma twice, undergoing chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and radiation therapy in New Jersey. Despite her victory over cancer, Roni recently faced the devastating loss of her older brother, Staff Sergeant Noam Hamburger, who was killed by an explosive drone strike at an Israeli military outpost near Lebanon on May 22, 2026.
The trip, part of the "Choosing Life" empowerment program for young adults aged 18 to 30, offers participants a supportive community where they share their experiences and heal together. Roni described emotional moments triggered by memories of her brother, such as when a traditional dish reminded her of him. The program includes workshops led by coordinator Dafna Ofir, group activities, and personal reflections, helping participants confront trauma and loss while fostering hope.
Other participants included 19-year-old Sheli Salant from Herzliya, who overcame Ewing's sarcoma and formed unexpected friendships with young cancer patients from Gaza during treatment. Sheli's story highlights the human connections transcending conflict. Another survivor, 19-year-old Aviv Moyal, who battled leukemia, emphasized the program's role in social reintegration and emotional support. The nonprofit also runs initiatives like "Dream Trips" to the U.S. and specialized kindergartens for young cancer survivors.
The journey blends moments of joy, humor, and grief, as survivors recall lost friends and family members, including fallen soldiers and fellow patients. The program's director, Efrat Lichtman, described "Bigger Than Life" as more than an organization, a worldview promoting joy, health, and hope. Participants expressed that the experience helped them reclaim life beyond cancer, with many planning to volunteer or pursue meaningful futures despite their hardships.
The sailing trip concluded with a communal spirit of resilience and encouragement, encapsulated by a participant's remark: "You chose life, now face it." This initiative continues to provide vital emotional and social support for young cancer survivors navigating complex recoveries amid personal and collective challenges.
