Preparations at Sheba for the Long-Awaited Return of the Hostages to Israel

The Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, is making extraordinary preparations to provide a safe, supportive, and healing environment for hostages expected to return to Israel. A state-of-the-art facility has been built to ensure their physical and emotional recovery in a space designed to offer a sense of home and security.

A Sense of Home

The new facility features spacious private rooms, carefully crafted to restore dignity and peace to those returning from captivity. Each room includes comfortable beds, inviting seating areas, soft carpets, and calming lighting, alongside natural greenery and warm, homely designs. Carolyn Batz Cheshin, a deputy director at Sheba, shared: “Our primary goal is to help the hostages feel human and free again. Privacy was our top priority in designing this special facility.”

The design reflects a biblical principle of compassion and restoration, as stated in Isaiah 61:1: “He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.”

 

Personalized Care and Rehabilitation

The facility is equipped with treatment and psychology rooms tailored to address complex health and emotional needs. Family meeting areas provide a welcoming space for loved ones to reconnect, fostering healing through the power of family support. Batz Cheshin explained: “We are preparing for more complex health and psychological conditions than before and anticipate that family members will want to stay close to their loved ones for extended periods.”

Rooms are pre-stocked with essential items like clothing, pajamas, slippers, and luxury toiletries, ensuring a smooth transition into a new life of freedom and healing.

Nourishing the Body and Spirit

Recognizing the importance of nutrition in recovery, personalized menus have been designed to meet individual needs, crafted by experienced nutrition teams. This attention to detail highlights the commitment to holistic care for each returning hostage.

“We are ready and well-prepared,” Batz Cheshin concluded. “Our goal is for every returnee to feel they’ve arrived at a safe, warm, and embracing place that will aid their recovery and rehabilitation.”

A Shared Commitment to Restoration

As Israel eagerly anticipates the return of its captives, Sheba Medical Center stands ready to provide a haven of safety and healing. May the work at Sheba Medical Center serve as a testament to the strength, compassion, and unity of the people of Israel.