It began like any family holiday.
Last spring, seven-year-old Imri was in Eilat with his parents and his younger brother. They’d spent the morning at the beach and were talking about where to go next as they stepped into a street crossing.
Then came the screech of brakes.
A bus struck them. His mother and younger brother were hurt — dazed, scraped, but able to stand. Imri lay on the ground, unable to move. His leg was crushed.
His father, Idan, got the call every parent dreads. Doctors feared Imri’s leg might have to be amputated. The days ahead were filled with surgeries, hospital corridors, and fear of what the future might hold.
When Imri’s condition finally stabilized, with his leg just barely saved, his road to recovery led to ALYN Hospital.
From the first day, Idan saw the difference. ALYN’s doctors, therapists, and nurses didn’t just treat an injury — they treated the whole child. They learned what frightened Imri, what motivated him, and how to help him believe in himself again.
At first, he was terrified of anyone wearing an employee badge. But the gentle warmth of the doctors, the nurses, the therapists and even the national service volunteers broke through that fear.
“When I first met Imri after the accident, he was afraid of the medical staff and wouldn’t cooperate,” noted Dr. Fred Carroll, ALYN’s Senior Rehabilitation Physician overseeing Imri’s care. “Through our multidisciplinary approach — combining medical, therapeutic, and psychological care — we met him with gentleness and kindness. Slowly but surely, he opened up. Watching his progress has been a joy.”
Today, Imri has re-learnt to walk through physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, occupational therapy, and educational and psychological support. Idan, a physical education teacher, stays with him in Jerusalem during the week. His mother, an accountant, juggles work, caring for the other children, and visiting Imri as much as possible — bringing the energy of home to his hospital days.
“From fearing Imri would never walk again to watching him smile in therapy - ALYN gave us back our hope.” Idan, Imri’s father
This Rosh Hashana, you can help more children like Imri start the year with hope, progress, and the therapies that change lives. Your gift today can be the first step toward a year full of possibility — for Imri, and for thousands of children across Israel who need ALYN. Donate now or Sponsor a Wheels of Love Rider