Businessman's Donation Establishes Major Allergy and Immunology Center at Hadassah

A chance encounter with the parents of Yuval Tova, a six-year-old Jerusalem girl suffering from a life-threatening allergy, inspired businessman Moshe Greenberg to fund the establishment of a major new medical center for allergy and clinical immunology at Hadassah Ein Kerem hospital. The new facility, which opened this week, is expected to serve thousands of children and adults.

The initiative began when Greenberg spoke with Yuval's parents about their daily struggles managing her severe allergies, the constant fear surrounding meals, and the worry for her safety. They also highlighted the plight of tens of thousands of other children needing professional, accessible medical care.

Greenberg, a father of seven, delved into the issue, consulting with professionals and learning about the medical needs and difficulties faced by many families. Following discussions with Hadassah Director-General Prof. Yoram Weiss, he and Avi Greenberg decided to support the creation of a comprehensive medical system for treating allergies and immune system disorders.

The new center, spanning approximately 1,200 square meters, consolidates specialist clinics, advanced treatment rooms, new laboratories, and day hospitalization units. Directed by Prof. Yuval Tal, the unit includes a team of about 12 specialist physicians and will address not only allergies but also autoimmune diseases and immune deficiencies, integrating advanced diagnostics, innovative treatments, and medical research.

One of the center's primary goals is to reduce the lengthy waiting times for food allergy treatments. Hadassah data indicates that around 250,000 people in the greater Jerusalem area have food allergies, with waiting times for allergen exposure therapy potentially reaching four years in Israel. The new center aims to shorten this significantly.

During the opening ceremony, Moshe Greenberg reiterated his personal motivation, sharing how treatments for children in his extended circle had profoundly impacted their lives. He thanked the medical staff and hospital management, including Prof. Weiss and Dalia Itzik, for their dedication and professionalism. The event was attended by local officials, the Greenberg family, and representatives from the Hadassah Organization.