Shimon, a 20-year-old from Bnei Brak, Israel, faced the daunting challenge of a cancer diagnosis over a year ago. Amidst the turmoil, Chaiyanu-Chai Lifeline Israel emerged as a beacon of hope, offering Shimon unwavering support from day one. Their dedicated team visited him in the hospital, involved him in invigorating programs, and even organized a birthday celebration to lift his spirits during a particularly tough period.
Continuing his yeshiva studies between treatments and surgeries, Shimon found solace and inspiration in the sense of normalcy and community Chaiyanu provided. A pivotal moment came when he attended Camp Simcha, Chai Lifeline’s medically supervised summer program in Glen Spey, NY. "At Camp Simcha, my diagnosis disappeared; it was just campers and counselors having fun and living in the moment," Shimon recalls.
Returning to Israel, the unforgettable memories of that summer fueled him, transforming his battle with cancer from a journey of solitude to one surrounded by a supportive community. Despite the challenges, Shimon feels far from alone, thanks to the constant engagement and emotional backing from his Chaiyanu friends. Through its comprehensive programs and heartfelt support, Chaiyanu-Chai Lifeline has shown Shimon that even in the face of adversity, there is a community ready to stand by him, ensuring he never faces his challenges alone.
Updated March 2024
