Physics Teacher With Parkinson’s in Yeruham Vows to Teach Until His Last Day
Lior Bar, a 50-year-old physics teacher from Yeruham, has been battling Parkinson’s disease for eight years but remains committed to teaching as long as he can move his hand to write on the board. Bar, who only disclosed his illness publicly a year ago, describes teaching as his passion and life’s mission, saying that not being able to teach would be his greatest tragedy.
Despite the physical challenges Parkinson’s has imposed, such as tremors, difficulty walking, and fatigue, Bar continues to lead classes and educational initiatives. He manages his symptoms with medication and adapts his schedule to maximize his functional hours, typically teaching from 10 a.m. for two to three hours when his condition is at its best. His students are aware of his condition and offer support when needed.
Bar is also a social entrepreneur, poet, and musician, serving as CEO of a youth and community development organization in the Negev. He channels his personal struggle into creative outlets, including writing and music. Before his diagnosis, Bar was an electrical engineer but found his true calling in education, moving to Yeruham 25 years ago to address a shortage of physics teachers.
Neurologist Dr. Piotr Melikov, who specializes in advanced neurology treatment, highlights Bar’s story as an example that Parkinson’s, while life-altering, does not have to halt professional and creative activity. He notes the unique challenges teaching presents for Parkinson’s patients but praises Bar’s determination and the powerful message it sends to his students.
Bar’s dedication exemplifies resilience and the profound impact educators have on shaping society, underscoring his belief that teaching is not just a job but a way of life.
