Israeli Reservist Develops Support Platform for Families of PTSD Sufferers After Combat Service

Alexander Furman, a 46-year-old data scientist from Modiin, returned to reserve duty following the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023. Despite a prior exemption, he volunteered to support soldiers in southern Israel amid escalating conflict. Furman served extensively in Lebanon and Gaza, including during the 2025 operations in Rafah and Khan Yunis, witnessing significant combat and loss, which led to his diagnosis with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

After completing 383 days of reserve service, Furman experienced a decline in mental health and work performance, eventually leaving his job. He underwent group therapy for PTSD, which he credits with aiding his recovery. Subsequently, Furman enrolled in a Google AI course at Reichman University and joined AI developer communities.

Motivated to assist others facing similar challenges, Furman joined TechHeal, a social-tech initiative developed in partnership with Matav, the Israeli Center for Psychotrauma, and TechGym. At a hackathon in Tel Aviv on July 26, 2026, Furman and his team will present "Ketef" (Shoulder), a digital platform designed to provide community support to families of military PTSD sufferers. Inspired by the "Yedidim" roadside assistance model, the platform matches volunteers with families needing help with daily tasks while preserving anonymity.

The platform offers tiered volunteer support ranging from remote assistance with paperwork to in-person help like shopping, dog walking, and household chores. Furman emphasizes the importance of relieving family members who often bear the brunt of PTSD's impact. Although still in demo form, the team plans to continue development regardless of the hackathon outcome, aiming to address the projected rise to 50,000 PTSD cases in Israel by 2028.

Furman is also seeking to reenter the workforce, balancing his ongoing PTSD management with job interviews. He notes the stigma and challenges in disclosing his condition to potential employers but remains optimistic about increased awareness and acceptance.