Charlie Kirk’s story, 13 page book drawn with heART by Naomi Gal.
Part of the proceeds will be dedicated to Charlie Kirk’s organization: Turning Point USA, so they can continue to spread his light.
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Support for the family of murdered hostage Alex Lobanov
Tsachi Idan, 49 years old.
A loving husband, a devoted father, a son, brother and friend.
Held captive as of this writing for 316 days. Tsachi’s life story ripped apart. His cherished eldest daughter Maayan turned 18 on October 3,2023. Maayan was a true gift. Smart, athletic, compassionate, always smiling, beautiful and adored.
She was brutally murdered in her family’s safe room. A quick and horrific end to a life that was lived peacefully.
Gali, the warrior mother is left to protect her children from an evil that is hard to explain.
Gali, Tsachi and their surviving children, Yael 11 and Shachar 9 (his 15 year old daughter Sharon was in Tel Aviv that day) were herded into their living room, where the terrorists took Gali’s phone, demanded her password and live-streamed their family’s pain and tragedy on Facebook.
Soon the Miran’s, a neighbouring family would be brought into the Idan’s home- which was now a makeshift Ham@s headquarters. Along with two other women.
Omri Miran, the father of 2 young girls- Roni, 2 years old and Alma, 9 months – was taken hostage with Tsachi. Their hands zip tied behind their back, their feet bare- and Tsachi’s hands still covered in the blood of his oldest daughter.
This was a most painful story to pen. Each story is. It’s a family torn apart, a daughter murdered while her birthday balloons float above her. The celebrations still fresh.
The Idan family can not begin to mourn their daughter Maayan. Tsachi must be returned to his family.
Every day is a day too long to wait. 316 days is 316 ways we have failed to return a father to his family.
Gali, Sharon, Yael, Shachar- I cried as my pens bled. I am holding your book in my hands and waiting for your reunion page to be filled. It hurts to know that Maayan will not be in the reunion picture.
We must remember Maayan.
We must not forget Tsachi.
This is Idan Shtivi ripped from his life story. Idan is 28 years old, a loving son, brother and boyfriend. His friends describe him as a man who puts everyone before himself. Generous and giving of his love and energy.
Idan is a gifted photographer and a brilliant man. He is driven to helping our world by creating sustainable solutions and combating climate change. He was just accepted into a volunteer program in Africa that aids children. His heart is huge and all encompassing.
Idan arrived at the Nova festival, but never made it inside. His friends Yulia and Lior were at the entrance and in no condition to drive. Idan offered them a ride and rode towards safety.
The friends were ambushed in their car by terrorists masquerading as police officers. Their car was driven off the road and into a tree.
Idan’s bullet ridden car was found with the bodies of Yulia and Lior murdered inside it. It would take 90 days of Idan classified as murdered before he was declared kidnapped to G*za.
Idan is strong and his family holds on to the hope that he can survive extreme conditions and that he is surviving captivity.
His family Is painfully surviving the long wait for Idan’s return.
Our hearts are with his parents Eli and Dalit. His siblings Hila and Omri and his girlfriend Stav.
Please share Idan’s story so that we can see his reunion page filled. His life story unpaused and this painful chapter finished.
The rest is still unwritten.
This is Kaid Farhan Elkadi , father of 11 children, rescued by the IDF from a tunnel in G@za after 326 days in captivity. The 1st of many rescues 🙏. His family is overjoyed and prays for the immediate release of our remaining 108 beloved hostages.
Feeling blessed to draw reunions. May the news be filled with our much awaited reunions.
Welcome home Kaid Farhan Elkadi!
This is Eitan Avraham Mor. The oldest brother of 8 siblings. His youngest sister just 4 years old.
Eitan is a hero. He remarkably and heroically saved many lives on October 7. Eitan risked his life to ensure that the bodies of young women were carried to relative safety- to ensure that they would be protected and respected even in their death. He moved their bodies in order to help them be found later for proper burial.
As a nation waits to bury their loved ones that have been held hostage. Their souls up high, their bodies in tunnels- we recognize the price Eitan was ready to pay to save their bodies.
Eitan paid with his freedom.
It is nearing a year that Eitan has been held captive. He is missed in every moment. His siblings waiting for his return. A family of deep faith and conviction. The Mor family raised a respectful, kind, compassionate man. A young man who turned 23 in captivity.
They wait for Eitan’s return.
This is Eitan’s story. His pages ripped from his life story.
Each of his siblings lives forever torn on October 7.
Their story did not end on October 7.
From the depth Eitan calls to us.
From the depth of their heart, his siblings beg us-
Do not forget Eitan.
Do not give up on Eitan.
Picture his reunion page drawn to life.
Eitan in the loving embrace of his family.
Eitan’s story carrying on.
Pages waiting to be filled in living color.
Pages that will be filled in living color.
Eliyahu, known by all as “Churchill”.
Only his wife Dafna called him Eliyahu.
Churchill was a lover of animals, a cattle breeder. A horse whisperer. A man with magic over living things and loving others.
There is a Medrash that says that every person has three names:
The name that his parents call him; the name that his friends and peers give him; and one that he creates for himself.
The best of these names is the one he acquires for himself.
I think of “Churchill”. The name he made for himself by being a loving husband, father and Son. By being a gifted and talented breeder.
I find myself thinking of the animals that Churchill gave his life for. Risking his own life to go too feed them. You care for them.
Churchill is deeply missed by his family and friends. He is also missed by the land and by his cattle. I think Churchill had a 4th name and it’s being spoken amongst the animals he loved. His name being passed between them. Missing him.
I want to remember that October 7 took so many lives and is still holding so many lives hostage.
So much was lost, broken and set aflame.
In a Kibbutz named Nir Oz even the animals are forever changed. The loss of a man named Churchill and the cruelty in which his body is being held hostage and denied a respectable burial- should make us all scream.
Scream for Churchill and scream for his cattle that he so loved. Let us bring Churchill’s body home and open the ground he walked on in Kibbutz Nir Oz to welcome his holy body and hold it in its eternal embrace.
This is Bipin Joshi’s story and today, October 26, was his birthday. His second birthday spent in captivity.
Bipin was only in Israel for a few weeks when he found himself caught in a terror attack of horrific magnitude and then kidnapped by a malicious terror organization that filmed his abduction.
To understand Bipin’s story- we need to widen our lense and see the young man who came to Israel as part of an agriculture program. Bipin came with 48 other students. Their program was called “Learn and earn” and they were scheduled to get their first Paycheck on October 6. It was an impressive internship and Joshi and his friend, Louish Rijal, were excited to purchase an iPhone together.
The program was going to be 11 months and Bipin sent his families photographs of him working in the lemon orchards on Kibbutz Alumim. He was looking forward to returning home and opening a farm of his own.
This is the young man that I want to introduce you to. A loyal son, an only son and a loving older brother. Bipin was the type of young man who was willing to risk his life to save others. He was a hero in the last moments before his abduction.
Bipin tossed a grenade out of the shelter, saving others. Bipin also managed to send a text to his cousin, asking him to take care of his family and always look forward in life.
Bipin, a foreign student in a foreign land, has been held in captivity for over a year. His father, a school teacher, walks for hours through their remote village, to reach an area with clear reception. Trying to find a connection to hear the news he is waiting for- that his son has been freed from this cruel nightmare.
Bipin asked that his family stay strong and always look towards the future. The Joshi family, and all of us, ask Joshi to stay strong a little longer and look towards the imminent future of his release from captivity.
Bipin was the only Nepalese citizen taken hostage. 10 of his friends were murdered on October 7 and 4 injured. Bipin is waiting 386 days to be saved.
Please, in honor of Bipin’s birthday, share his story.
Beautiful, brilliant and loved beyond measure.
Shani, the coolest girl on earth, achieved every goal she set for herself. Shani was independent, loving and gifted. She had an incredible, rolling laugh and a constant smile. Her life slogan was “No time for drama.” And she truly lived her life for the moment. Shani surfed, sang non stop, spent time with her dog Alpha (who she raised from a young age) and was the life of every party. She recently completed her degree in law with excellence.
On October 7, Shani was working at the Nova festival, but after her shift was completed she stayed with 2 of her friends, Ben and Gali.
Shani found herself in the midst of a Barbaric terror attack. She called her father, Yaakov, who quickly jumped into his car and raced to save his daughter. The drive was 3 hours and Yaakov arrived only moments too late to save his beloved Shani.
Shani was able to save many others. It was in Shani’s merit that her father ferried others to safety. Even in her death, she shone her light and love on others.
Shani’s father and brother searched for 5 days for her. They left no stone unturned and eventually they coincided that Shani was missing. They knew she had been injured and with no further information- they lived for 47 days in this cruel limbo, a living nightmare. Not knowing and fearing what happened to their beloved Shani.
On November 23 the family was notified that Shani’s remains had been found.
The discovery was made because Shani’s necklace was found with her DNA and the DNA of another woman. They opened up the woman’s grave and found Shani and the second woman’s burnt bodies buried as one.
Shani’s family continues her legacy of love and no time for drama.
When asked what message he had for the world, Shani’s brother Aviel said: “Hug your brothers and sisters. Cherish your family. Love them. Our world collapsed on a bright sunny day and it can happen to anyone. Be good to your family and bring our hostages back now.”
In @remember_shani_gabay Instagram bio- you can support Shani’s foundation. Please follow Shani’s page. Please share Shani’s story.
This is Ran Gvili’s story ripped from the book of his life.
Ran, 24 years old, was in the hospital awaiting a scheduled surgery when the horrific October 7 attack began in the south. Ran checked himself out of the hospital and into the role of soldier, hero and friend.
Ran’s bravery is legendary as is his smile. Ran loves meeting with friends and spending time with his loving family.
It is important to note, that on January 30, 2024 the IDF declared that Ham@s was holding Ran’s body hostage and that Ran was no longer among the living. Ran’s family does not accept this declaration and we continue to hope and pray for Ran’s return. In living health and surrounded by love.
The Gvili family is broken hearted and torn between their hope and the horror of each passing day their beloved son is held captive.
Please share Ran’s story, hold his family close and follow their account. Forward Ran’s story onwards and never forget this beautiful, heroic young man. Picture him returning to his family, together with each of our beloved 101 hostages.
Itzik, Talik, Omri and Shira – you are in our hearts. We are waiting with you for your beloved son and brother to return.
Amit and his girlfriend Karin, just 19 and 20 years old. Forever young. Their lives brutally snuffed out in their youth.
Amit was 7 years younger than his Aunt Ziv. They were friends and confidants. They partied together and enjoyed each other’s company. On October 7, 2023 they were at the Nova Festival together.
Ziv with her boyfriend Eliya Cohen and Amit with his girlfriend Karin. When the brutal attack began, the 4 of them took refuge in a roadside shelter. Aner Shapiro, of blessed memory, heroically stood at the entrance of the shelter and caught grenade after grenade. Throwing the grenades back out. Aner caught and tossed back 7 grenades with the 8th one exploding within the shelter and killing Aner and many others.
Amit and Karin lived a short but meaningful life of love and music together. When the music stopped, they died in love – together as well.
Eliya was taken hostage from that roadside shelter with @bringornow Or Levy and @bring.hersh.home Hersh Goldberg Polin. Ziv pretended to be dead as she lay beneath her murdered family and friends.
Ziv survived and is living with the trauma of that day but also living towards the healing moment when she will hold her beloved Eliya in her arms again.
Like her young nephew Amit, who found the love of his life at a young age, Ziv too has been with Eliya since she was 18 years old. They met as 14 year olds and have been dating for 7 years.
October 7th took so many lives and stopped promising young lives from sharing their creativity and kindness with the world.
We must bring home Eliya and each of our beloved hostages, so there will be no more losses.
May Amit and Karin always be remembered and their life and love shared with others.
This is Lior Rudeaff’s story. Lior, 61 years old, was born an Argentinian and Israeli citizen. He was born in Argentina and immigrated to Israel with his family when he was 7 years old.
Lior had a beautiful life on Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak. He and his wife Yaffa raised 4 children, Noam, Nadav, Bar and Ben. Together they were enjoying their children and 2 grandchildren.
Lior drove an ambulance and volunteered as a medic. He was an exceptional and eager volunteer, known for always volunteering to help others.
On October 7, Lior was preparing for a motorcycle ride with friends when he got a call from the Kibbutz emergency squad that there was an infiltration on their Kibbutz. Lior jumped into action to protect his community.
The last communication the Rudaeff family had with their father was that morning when he texted to say he was injured. For months they believed Lior was taken into G@za and being held captive. In May 2024, after 7 months of hope, they were told that Lior had been murdered on October 7 in the fight to protect his home.
His body was kidnapped and helped hostage.
The family now waits to respectfully bury their beloved husband and father.
Please share Lior’s story and demand his release. His family can not begin to mourn and heal without burying their beloved family patriarch
This is Amiram Cooper. His life story and his life’s passion. Amiram co-founded Kibbutz Nir Oz and his dreams of a thriving Kibbutz that was blessed with abundance was fulfilled in his lifetime. Nir Oz was idyllic in its beauty and its warmth. The Kibbutz was a community that was built on shared values and ideals- and everyone felt like family to one another.
Amiram and his wife Nurit were taken captive together on October 7. When Nurit returned she shared the details of their brutal abduction.
Amiram was 84 years old when he was abducted and he was murdered in captivity. The terrori$ts still hold Amiram’s body captive. Denying Amiram the respectful burial he deserves in the land he so loved.
It would have surely broken Amiram’s heart to see his beloved Kibbutz torched and looted. Kibbutz Nir Oz suffered horrific losses.
The 69-year-old kibbutz, located 2.8 kilometers from Gaza, lost more than a quarter of its 400 members on October 7, with 46 people murdered, including entire families, and 71 people taken hostage. Fourteen Thai citizens who worked at Nir Oz were also murdered that morning.
Amiram was multitalented. Both in matters of the land and the heart. He was a skilled agriculture farmer, but he was also a talented writer, composer and poet.
His family shared a song he wrote, entitled
“The Daily Sun”
I’ll include a link below.
May Amiram return home to rest in the land he cultivated and loved. May he be accompanied by his beautiful family and the songs he composed. Melodies he whistled and music he lived by.
This is Tamir Nimrodi’s life story. The pages ripped from his life on October 7 and now, as of this writing, his life story missing 406 pages.
Tamir is missed in every moment. He was just a young 18 year old boy when he was brutally abducted from his base near the Erez Crossing.
Tamir is sensitive, caring and loving to everyone. He is the guy who plans the family get together and makes sure people feel seen. After his abduction, his family learned how he took his lunch to sit with a soldier he realized was eating alone in her room. Others shared stories of how Tamir, noticing a friend had no money at the mall, would slip cash into his pockets. Tamir is a natural giver.
His mother Herut describes how she found out her son was kidnapped. His younger sister saw a video of Tamir being dragged at gunpoint into captivity. On Instagram. I had to read that sentence multiple times and sit with Herut’s emotions. Herut, a young mother herself, falling asleep at night with the reoccurring image of her beautiful son being stolen.
Herut travels and advocates for her son’s freedom. She fears for his safety, after the 2 soldiers he was kidnapped with returned home in coffins.
Today is Tamir’s birthday. November 15. His youth stolen from him. His innocence shattered. His life at stake.
Every moment counts. Please share Tamir’s story. His caring nature and his kindness to others. Please help people know Tamir’s name and let us merit to see Tamir’s return and reunion all over Instagram.
How I wish to erase the images of Tamir’s abduction from his mother’s eyes and replace it with the images that have yet to fill Tamir’s life story. That will fill Tamir’s continued life story.
Happy birthday Tamir. May your wishes for your freedom be answered sweetly and NOW!
A theater group named Ham@S puts out a video of psychological terror and labels it a “proof of life”.
Sasha Troufanov @troufanov_family is seen in the video- but that’s not the proof of his life. The proof of Sasha’s life is in his goodness, his love, his friendships, his family and his girlfriend Sapir.
Sasha deserves his freedom and his life. The life he built on love, respect and loyalty.
If anyone needs a proof of life and a proof of their humanity – it’s the people behind the scenes. To the UN and The RedCross and the citizens of Gaza- prove yourselves!!!
Show your proof of life in setting Sasha and each of our beloved hostages free. Take the millions of dollars you are being offered and your exit ticket from Gaz@ and prove that you are more than just a camera man for a theatrical group of terror.
Show us YOUR proof of life.
This is Shay Levinson, just 19 years old.
A gifted athlete and a brilliant student. Shay is loved by everyone and cherished by his family.
Shay’s family believes in peace. Shay, his mother and brother Ben all played on an Arab volleyball team. Shay was the only Jewish player on his team.
Shay loved nature and the land of Israel. Shay was a brave soldier. A leader that led his tank to the site of the Nova festival on October 7.
For months Shay was thought to be a living captive- but on January 21, 2024 – the IDF confirmed that ham@s was holding Shay’s holy body and preventing the family from burying their beloved son and brother.
The Levinson family chose to sit Shiva and mourn Shay even with the absence of his body. The entire Arab village where Shay played volleyball came out to mourn Shay and comfort his family during the Shiva.
Shay was a light in this world. A truth seeker and a peace keeper. Shay’s time in this world was incredibly short and the abduction and captivity of his holy body is a cruel addition to the pain of losing Shay.
Keep Shay in your heart. Think of the Levinson’s who wish to bury their beloved Shay. May that day come speedily and may all our beloved hostages be returned for the story of their lives to continue and for those that passed to have closure.
Thank you to the Levinson family for raising a boy like Shay. Brave, beautiful, kind and compassionate. We stand with you and we cry with you.
I’m sorry.
I’m so sorry.
I started and stopped writing Sahar’s story because the tentacles of grief are far reaching. Because you can love someone you never met and can no longer meet. Because you can find yourself hearing a story and feeling the details in your heart. Unraveling in slow motion that you can’t stop.
I saw Niv, the youngest of 4 brothers standing holding his families posters. He needed help to hold them up- because he has two hands and 3 posters to hold. His grandmother Geula murdered with an axe. His brother Idan shot in the head and his brother Sahar taken hostage and murdered. That’s too many posters to hold and too much heartache to carry.
Sahar is being held captive even in his death. His soul has returned to heaven and was surely greeted by his brother Idan and grandmother Geula.
Niv, I’m sorry that the story I find so hard to draw, to tell – you live with. I’m sorry that you live with the details and lost so very much.
Your older brothers Idan and Sahar were heroes. They sheltered in your mother’s house as you hid with your father in his house. When Idan was severely injured by grenades that were thrown into the shelter- Sahar called your mother and followed directions to make a tourniquet. When your house was lit on fire-Idan had an asthma attack and jumped out the window for air. Sahar stayed in the burning house to look for Idan’s inhaler.
Idan was found hiding outside and was murdered. Then Geula was found hiding and murdered with an axe. Sahar was kidnapped from the burning house and murdered 2 months later. His body held hostage.
I’m sorry.
Niv, you are a hero. You share your family’s story and you share their lives with us. I am sorry for the weight of the loss you must carry. I hope that just as the boy next to you helped you hold your families posters- I pray you always have those people near you. That all your life you feel the blessing of the memories of your beautiful family. That your life is filled with those that stand by your side, share your story, hold your heart and bring you the joy you deserve to live with.
That you do not carry this pain alone. That we are all one family. And that we are your family
Oz Daniel. 19 years old.
Forever young. Forever loved and forever missed.
Oz was a beloved son to Merav & Amir and a twin brother to Hadar. Oz was a gifted musician and an incredibly talented guitarist.
Oz was a guns and roses fan. He loved music and loved people. Oz was raised with strong values. If you hear his parents speaking out for his return now, you can feel the loving home Oz was raised in.
It was from this loving home that Oz became the leader amongst his friends and the ever optimistic, sensitive, attentive friend. The friend others relied on to bring them laughter, music and joy. A brilliant young man, a gifted musician and a heartfelt friend. Smiling in every picture I’ve seen of him.
Oz was proud to enlist in the army. He was a strong warrior and a brave soldier until his final breath. Oz was murdered as he fought back to survive.
The terrorists continue to hold Oz hostage, not allowing the Daniel family the chance to bring Oz home to rest in the land he loved. On October 7 Oz was stationed at the border defending Israel. We will not rest until Oz is returned.
Forever young. Forever in our hearts.
Ilan Weiss, a beloved father to his 3 daughters, Noga, Meital and Maayan. Ilan was respected and loved on his kibbutz of Be’eri. He was part of the security team and rushed out of his house to protect others.
Ilan, 56 years old, was taken hostage on October 7. His wife Shiri, 53 and 18 year old daughter Noga were also brutally abducted from their home. Shiri and Noga were returned on November 25 during the ceasefire. It was only on January 1, 2024 that the Weiss family learnt the bitter news that their beloved father and husband was murdered on October 7 and his body taken hostage.
Ilan enjoyed biking and adventures in nature. He radiated positivity and peace. Ilan’s daughter would tease their father- that his dog Ketem was the son he never had.
Ketem was murdered on October 7.
A brutal enemy that invaded a peaceful kibbutz and, raped, burned down homes, destroyed lives, murdered and abducted citizens from their homes- murdered a family dog and ripped apart the Weiss family.
I rip each page of the books I write to show how our beloved hostages have been ripped from their lives. Forcefully stolen and their pages of their life story left blank after October 7. Waiting for reunions.
For Noga and her mother Shiri – they returned and were reunited with their surviving family members. They slowly are rebuilding their lives.
But- they cannot turn the pages and close the chapter on the horrors of October 7 until their father returns to be buried in the land he loved. There is no closure and no mourning until they can respectful bury their father and husband.
The Kibbutz of Be’eri and the Weiss family lost so very much on October 7. We stand with them in solidarity and demand that Ilan’s holy body be released and returned to Israel. NOW.
This is Joshua Loitu Mollel from Tanzania. Joshua was just 21 years old when he took his first trip out of Tanzania to work in Israel as an agricultural student.
Joshua arrived in Israel in September 2023 and was kidnapped on the Saturday of horrors from Kibbutz Nachal Oz. Just 2 weeks after his arrival.
At first, his family believed he had been kidnapped, but on December 13th a brutal video was released where Joshua was murdered on camera.
It is believed that Joshua was murdered right after he was taken captive and his body continues to be held and denied a respectful burial. As of this writing is it has been 450 days.
Joshua’s younger brothers ask their father, “When they can talk to Joshua again.” An older, much adored brother, who left home to create a better future for himself, now lives only in the past.
Our greatest efforts must be made to bring Joshua’s body back to Tanzania for burial and for his family to mourn their beloved eldest son.
Joshua, your life was tragically and brutally cut short, we remember you as the cherished eldest son and the beloved big brother to your siblings.
I am so sorry that in your quest for a brighter future in Israel you met with the darkest of our countries days.
Rest in peace Joshua and may your holy body return home.
This is Yair Yaakov, known affectionately as YaYa.
YaYa was a family man, a beloved partner to Meirav and the father of 3 children, Shir, Or and Yagil. He worked at an auto shop in Kibbutz Alumim. Known as a modest man, who loved his family, the land and music. Always willing to help everyone, Yair had a huge heart and a love of life.
The Yaakov family was amongst 72 hostages that were taken captive by H@m@s from Kibbutz Nir Oz. Yair and Meirav were taken from their home, where Yair had tried to ward off the attackers by bracing against the door to their safe room. The terr@rists shot through the door- wounding Yair. They then attacked with brutal force, using grenades.
On October 7, the 2 Yaakov brothers, Or and Yagil where staying at a different home on the Kibbutz, but also brutally kidnapped.
On November 27, the boys were released from captivity. The next day, Meirav was released. They waited and watched for their beloved YaYa to return too.
On February 8, 2024, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that the terr@rists have been holding Yair’s body. It was announced that Yair/Yaya so full of life and joy was murdered on October 7 and his body taken hostage.
The Yaakov family, the Nir Oz family and the entire world holds their hearts and bows their heads to wait for a dear father, a loving partner and a man with a golden heart to return to be buried respectfully, in the land he so loved.
Please let Yair/Yaya Yaakov return to rest in the peace he lived and died for.
Liri Albag is the younger sister to Shay and Roni and the older sister to Guy.
Liri is always smiling, dancing, traveling, singing and bringing light and joy where ever she goes.
This is also Liri – held hostage for 456 days – a shadow of the 18 year old girl she was stolen as. Forced to record a “proof of life “ video when the video is really just proof that our beloved Liri is being held and tortured.
The proof of Liri’s life is in her incredible strength and the faith and hope she holds onto that today will be the day she is released into her family’s arms.
Please add to whatever you are currently doing to bring Liri and our beloved 99 hostages home. Amplify their voices, reach out to your government officials, tell a stranger about an innocent girl being held hostage.
Don’t let anyone forget that Liri is counting on us.
That the proof of Liri’s life will always be in her own strong beating heart. The love she has for her family and friend. Her faith even in the darkest moments that she is suffering.
The only proof we all want to see is when Liri returns to her life, unpaused, and her heart is healed and held in her family’s embrace.
Today! Let it be today.
Meny Godard z”l life was a life of devotion and generosity. Meny gave his whole heart to everyone and every endeavour he took on. Meny and his wife Ayelet raised their 4 children in the beautiful kibbutz of Be’eri. An oasis of open doors and the wish for peace amongst their neighbours- not withstanding which side of the fence they lived on.
Meny (sometimes written Meni or Manny) was an integral part of his beloved kibbutz. On October 7 Meny and his wife Ayelet were brutally murdered. Meny’s holy body was abducted to G@za- where he has been held without mercy. Meny’s family is denied a place to mourn their beloved father.
Meny and Ayelet were people who spread light in their lifetime and their legacy continues to spread light.
Ayelet, a longtime teacher, who brought nature into the classroom and took her students outside often. Ayelet was an incredible mother and a cherished grandmother.
Both Meny and Ayelet believed in their kibbutz and their members. They were a beautiful, strong, loving part of Kibbutz Be’eri and they deserve to rest side by side in the kibbutz they so loved, lived for and were murdered in.
Please, let’s bring Meny back to the land he loved. Now!
This is Youssef Ziyadne’s story. A Bedouin father taken captive from kibbutz Holit with his 3 children. Hamza, 22 , Aisha 17 and Bila 18.
Aisha and Bilal were released after 50 days. They spoke of being kept together as a family and not realizing there were other hostages. They told their captors that they were Muslims and were given a Quran.
Youssef, 53, was married with two wives and 19 children. Youssef worked in the kibbutz cow shed. Hamza, 22, married and father of two, and Bilal, 18, and single, were working with their father, while their sister had joined them for the morning.
The family lives in Rahat, in the Ziyadne neighborhood, named for their extensive family clan.
Once Aisha and Bilal were released, the family waited with hope for the return of their patriarch and beloved son.
On January 8, 2024. As I sat down to continue writing the Ziyadne family story, ripped apart on October 7. I opened up to the heartbreaking news that Youssef Ziyadne’s body was recovered from a tunnel in Gaza. His son Hamza was found together with his father.
Both men are fathers, brothers, husbands and men who endured over 400 days of torture in the hopes that they could and would return to their lives and those they loved.
This is not the reunion page the Ziyadne family envisioned. It is not the way of the world of kindness and freedom. This is the end of a life story that was kept in the underworlds with no freedom. It’s the end of a story that was stolen, brutally ripped from their lives.
It’s a story that still needs to be told 98 Times. But not like this. Not with reunions that we cry bitterly over.
My heart, our hearts extend condolences and comfort to the Ziyadne family. That they know no more sorrow and find comfort in the memories of their beloved Youssef and Hamza.
May they rest in the peace they lived in. A peace for all eternity.
This is Maxim Herkin, 35. Max. He is a loving father. Devoted and dedicated. Maxim is a man of integrity and compassion. He supports his mother Tela and younger brother Peter.
Maxim was born in the Ukraine but immigrated to Israel with his mother and younger brother to live a life with more promise and security. Maxim had just returned from visiting his 3 year old daughter Monica in Ukraine a week before the horrific attacks of October 7.
Maxim had never been to a music festival like Nova. Maxim was not a party person, but his friend and friends wife convinced him to attend. At the last minute Maxim accompanied them to the Nova festival.
Maxim’s friends were found murdered in their vehicle. Burned. Leaving behind 2 orphans.
Maxim was declared missing.
Maxim was studying computer science, living in Tirat HaCarmel (near Chaifa) and cherishing the people closest to him. His mother Tela, brother Peter and partner Anna. He is a Russian citizen, an Israeli and above all -an innocent human being. A beloved father and son.
Maxim’s life is waiting for him. His life story waiting to continue.
Help the Herkin family by sharing Maxim’s story and believing in their reunion with their son, father, brother and partner.
This is Oron Shaul z”l life story. A heroic 22 year old in the Golani Brigade of the IDF.
On July 20, 2014 during the 2014 Gaza war — known in Israel as Operation Protective Edge, Oron’s unit was attacked after its APC, armored personnel carrier, got stuck on a narrow street. While their APC was being extracted- 7 soldiers were killed and Oron’s body was dragged into Gaza.
Oron’s parents Herzl and Zehava and his brothers Aviram and Ofek fought tirelessly for his release.
In June 2016, 2 years after Oron was kidnapped and 10 months after being diagnosed with Cancer, Herzl passed away. He never got to see his beloved son returned.
Herzl penned a letter to his son before his death.
Here is part of Herzl’s letter. Please follow the link to continue reading a father’s loving last words to his heroic son.
“My Oron, my hero son, my mighty warrior, since you left, my body started to betray me,” Herzl Shaul wrote. “I cannot lie. My physical condition could be better, but unfortunately it gets a little worse every day. Even so, I continue to be strong and to believe. I cannot give up because I want to make it to the moment I have been dreaming of since the day you were taken, the moment when the prime minister and IDF chief of staff call me and say: ‘Herzl, Sergeant Oron Shaul of the Golani Brigade is coming home from the war tonight. I imagine how, immediately after the phone call, I will give the good news to your mother, to Aviram and Ofek; tell them that you are coming back to us in a few hours. Even though you may be wounded and exhausted, a captive with a long rehabilitation process ahead of you, you will be home. This movie keeps running through my head and keeps me strong.
“My beloved Oron, if you see this letter when you return, they will certainly tell you the difficult times that we suffered until you returned from captivity, the lies and manipulations of all those people we used to value and admire. But my request is that you bear no grudge or anger. Do you know why? Because there is no nation on earth like the Jewish people.
Hadar Goldin was 23 years young. He was a lieutenant in the elite Givati Brigade of the IDF. Hadar and his twin brother Tzur were in the army together and were stationed 500 meters away from one another when Hadar was kidnapped and dragged into g@za.
Tzur ran into the tunnel structure after his brother, calling out to his commander that if he didn’t return within 5 minutes- to assume he had been killed.
Tzur did emerge and return, but for the past 10 years – Tzur and his family wait for their beloved son and brothers body to return to the land he loved and died protecting.
Hadar was brilliant and gifted. He was a talented artist, both in visual arts and in crafting the poetic. A painter, a graphic artist and most importantly known for his pure, generous and constant smile. An inspiration to so many.
In Hadar’s honor and to continue his legacy of peace, creativity and comfort- the Goldin family created an art exhibit of Hadar’s work. Aptly named the “Final Peace” exhibition.
May Hadar’s legacy of paint on canvas and peace on this earth help return Hadar home to rest peacefully and with the honor Hadar deserves.
An eternal peace for Hadar Goldin z”l.
This is Tamir Adar’s story ripped from the beautiful life he was living in the kibbutz he was born and raised on.
In Kibbutz Nir Oz, Tamir, 38 years old, was the 3rd generation of Adars. Tamir was the eldest grandchild of Yaffa Adar, 85, who was abducted to G@za on October 7th and released in November 2023 during the ceasefire.
Yaffa was pictured smiling while she was being kidnapped- her strength and courage displayed to all. She did not want the terrori?ts to have the satisfaction of seeing her fear. Instead she rode into G@za on her own terms, becoming a symbol of resistance and an iconic figure.
Tamir was a loving and beloved grandson, son, husband, father and friend. Raised With the strong and loving roots of a matriarch like Yaffa, Tamir left his house on October 7 to protect his kibbutz and those he loved.
Tamir was gravely injured and after 91 days, his family was told that he did not survive his injuries and that it was his body that was abducted into Gaz@.
He was married to Hadas and together they were raising their 2 children Asaf, 7 and Neta 3.
Tamir was a man who loved people and nature. He was part of the Kibbutz’s emergency response team and therefore one of the firsts to leave his home to protect others.
As of this writing Tamir has been held hostage for 525 days. His young son, just 8 years old, has asked, “What’s the point of being a hero, if in the end Dad doesn’t come home?”
We must bring Tamir and each of our beloved 59 hostages home. For rehabilitation and for respectful burials.
No one can be left behind. Not one hero can be forgotten.
My heart is with you Jon, Rachel, Libi and Orly. My heart is with your beautiful son Hersh and our beloved 132 hostages. We all love you. Stay strong. Survive. Hope is mandatory and hope is yours. I can not fathom your wait to hold your son in your arms, but please know that I am holding you all in my heart. You will hold Hersh again. Please everyone raise your voices and bring everyone home now!!!
His life ripped from the storybook life he was living.
The chapter Guy was on was his 26th year. Every chapter of Guy’s life was set to music and guided by his huge heart.
Guy was musically gifted and incredibly talented. He worked with prominent Israeli musicians. He shared his love of music with others and his love for others was shared in his music.
Guy, who was gifted a guitar by his mother at 9 Years old, was instantly a musician. He composed his own music from an early age.
Guy’s parents divorced when he was 2 years old and his mother, Doris Liber, explained that until Guy was 7, it was just Guy and her against the world. Guy and his mother were always very close. They spoke constantly in the phone and had dinner together weekly.
Guy’s friends were always with him. Most of his friends lived nearby and they grew up together. Guy’s house was the house everyone wanted to hang out in. His sensitivity, his kindness and the warmth of his home- made his house “The house.”
Guy was abducted alive into Gaz@ while his 4 close friends who were trying to escape with him in his jeep were murdered. His family and friends rallied to raise awareness for their beloved Guy.
On December 1, 2023 the IDF confirmed that Guy had been murdered in captivity. His body is now being held hostage and denied a respectful burial.
Guy, who brought so much joy and music to our world is being held with hate and his fate is being met with silence.
Please share Guy’s story and let us bring Guy back to his parents and the land he loved.
May Guy’s memory be a blessing. May his music play on.
Carmel – this is your story. What a beautiful story it is! I write all our beloved hostages stories on paper that has been ripped instead of cut to symbolize a life story that was ripped from their own life. From those that have loved them, will always love them, have so much love left to shower on them for their return. Carmel, you were ripped from your life. A family you had just returned to after a trip to India. A family that you were celebrating the holidays with. Even with the trauma of your October 7 kidnapping: watching your mother murdered. Unknowing what fate befell your brothers, your nieces and nephews- you still brought your signature warmth and strength into captivity. Those released, like your dear sister in law, speak of your strength. You organized daily yoga classes for the children. Light in such darkness. Your family knows your strength, they love your wisdom and shared advice. Your family is fighting for you, your friends are too. Your nephew says you are the coolest hostage and I think about how much my own children treasure their Aunts and Uncles. Carmel, you are a treasure. I fear that you are buried alive in those tunnels and that your days are numbered as we are counting upwards. 180 days today. Forgive the world that has not returned you yet. I read about your family fighting for your return and they are not giving up. Please keep fighting with your light. Please return to your story. I’ll tape your pages together. I’ll add the blank page for your reunion with your family. I hope you read this one day soon and know that you are a hero in your days. The ones before October 7 when you shared so much love with those around you. And a hero in these 180 days that you made easier for those around you. And you will be welcomed home a hero for so the rest of your days. Come home now Carmel!
This is Hersh’s story. It is a story for all ages and all humanity.
A read and weep story, but also a “get up and be the change we need to see in this world” story.
Hersh’s story is unfolding in front of our eyes, even though we can’t see him, we can hear his mother’s mantra “I love you. Stay strong. Survive!” We can help by keeping Hersh’s story alive, by speaking up, by not allowing the world to be silent and only then, will we get to see, NOW, Hersh’s mother holding her son and saying “I love you. You are so strong. You survived.” Because he will!!!!!
This is Eliya Cohen’s story. A charming, handsome, loyal and loving man. 27 years old. His life just starting. Eliya’s life story was ripped apart on October 7. I always rip the pages I draw on to signify the way each beloved hostage was ripped from their life. With Eliya, I couldn’t just write his story. Like every loved and stolen hostage, Eliya had a world of family, friends and adventures just waiting for him. Paused in his absence. Worried for him and counting the minutes and days as they have become months. But, with Eliya, I heard a story that was seen in first person. His partner and girlfriend of 7 years was with him on October 7. Ziv was in the bomb shelter with her boyfriend Eliya. She witnessed the murder of her nephew Amit and his girlfriend Karina, in that same bomb shelter. She sent me pictures, videos from those moments. I sat with the pictures and videos. I watched the man Ziv loves be taken captive. And I understood that this story is a story of many lives paused. Of course, no doubt, it always is. Just like the trance music Elya so loved, the music creating ripples that effect everyone hearing the music. So too, these 133 remaining hostages, the murdered holy ones from October 7, they all have rippled effects of pain and haunting sorrow. But, with Elya’s story. I spoke to Ziv. I never listen without hearing. I never hear without hurting. Trying to carry a bit of the pain that Ziv is carrying. A pain she can not yet process. Ziv survived and her story needs to be told. But her story can not continue its beautiful trajectory without Eliya. Please read Eliya’s story and imagine the music he loved reaching out to all of us. Ripple effects. And then the silence Eliya is in now. The hell we must get him out of. Thank you Ziv for sharing your love with me. For trusting me to color in your most vibrant boyfriend. To tell the story of October 7 with you. It is an honor to have met you and I hope to one day see you and Eliya together. Lovers of music that get to dance together again. A love story unpaused.
This is Or Levy’s life story ripped apart. His life brutally paused. Eynav, Or’s beloved wife and mother to their 2 year old son Almog, was cruelly murdered in front of Or.
October 7 left Almog without his parents. Almog now lives between his grandparents, who are unable to even say the words “mom” and “dad” without Almog bursting into tears.
Or and Eynav had so many dreams and they were fulfilling them. They balanced their successful careers with raising Almog in a loving and warm environment.
Or and Eynav met in high school and started off as friends. Their relationship deepened and they were married 5 years ago. Their love was magical. They danced together – both at parties and in the way they lived. Sharing the joy and excitement of parenthood equally.
Eynav is survived by her parents Pnina and Shlomo, and siblings Eliav and Lior. And of course by the boys in her life. Her son Almog and her beloved husband Or.
The Levy family needs to start to heal. To mourn Eynav and to raise Almog in his mother’s gentle and loving ways. We must bring Or back to his son.
Father and son reunited.
The last page in this book of Or Levy’s paused life – is a blank page left for Or’s reunion with his son Almog. It pains me to know that their reunion picture won’t be with Eynav. But, I will draw Eynav looking down on her boys – because I know that in heaven Eynav Is doing everything she can to bring Or back to her son.
Links:
https://giveback.co.il/project/83596
https://www.gofundme.com/f/almog-levy
This is the Bibas family. Shiri, seen shielding her children as she was led into G@z@. A mother protecting her children. Her beautiful boys- Ariel, 4 and Kfir, 9 months old are silent. The terrorists filmed their fear and Shiri crying out, but the boys make no sound. Ariel, who is talkative and loves to play with trucks. Kfir, who babbles and cries – both terrified into silence. You can feel Shiri’s unbearable pain, her face etched in horror. Somehow one of the hardest things for me to imagine is the people that held their phones to video another persons pain. There are people in this world, right now, with us all- who filmed themselves torturing Yarden Bibas as they dragged him into g@z@. Yarden, the devoted father of Ariel and Kfir. Shiri’s husband, who beams at her from their photos with complete rapture and adoration. There exists people who proudly filmed the most heinous act of taking babies from their homes and kidnapping them. That was October 7. The first day of this new world. Then,the Bibas relatives had to fight for their loved ones. Dana, Shiri’s sister buried her parents, unable to mourn their deaths because she has yet to wake up from the nightmare that is her reality. Ofri, Yarden’s sister pleads for the world to show compassion for what they have seen with their own eyes. The family is not trying to share a story that we need to use our imagination to piece together- they are showing us the footage. We see the Bibas pain highlighted. The videos broadcasting to the world that there are children in captivity. A mother and father tormented. The family imagines that the videos, once seen, will help release their loved ones from captivity. How can the world ignore the videos? But, their family does not get released because there are people in this world, who kidnap babies, children, mothers with their arms around their children and fathers, who hold their bleeding hands to their heads. There are people in this world who film themselves kidnapping a family. It’s hard to be part of a world that films these images. But also, so very hard to imagine being part of the world that shows no horror that it is 7 months since October 7 and WHERE ARE THE BIBAS?
This is Keith Siegel ripped from the story of his life on October 7. Keith and Aviva are a beautiful couple, married for 40 years. Raising a family of 4 children and 5 grandchildren together. Creating memories and building a life together. Chapters filled with memories. And now this rip in their story, a chapter they also share together- but in terror instead of the peace they exemplify. Keith and Aviva were abducted together, but only Aviva has returned to her life. A life that isn’t complete without her husband Keith. Aviva, who survived 51 days In hell- knows exactly where she left Keith. Aviva is a fierce advocate of restoring peace and bringing back each and every beloved hostage. Keith, your quiet nature, your thoughtfulness, your courage and your wife who is a true heroine- will be your strength. I read how you are the youngest of 4 children and how your mother Gladys is living in an assisted living home, where the staff has protected and shielded her from your current life threatening captivity. It made me think about how we are all shielded from the reality that you have been living in for 204 days. We can try to imagine it, but we can not bear it. But, 134 beloved hostages are currently living in hell. And 112 returned hostages can imagine it without comfort. One of those 112 returned hostages is your wife Aviva. She is advocating for each and every remaining hostage and for the love of her life and the life that she has so loved. For the father of her children and for her husband and life partner. The man who shares her life story. The story that needs to be restarted now!
This is the story of one family from Kibbutz Be’eri. The Sharabi family’s story will follow this post. But please, if you can- read this.
This is Nimrod Cohen ripped from his life story. At just 19 years old, Nimrod was dragged into captivity. Where he remains as I write this on day 262.
Nimrod, from a loving family in Rechovot, has an older brother Yotam, who at 23 years old is fighting all over the world for his younger brothers freedom.
Nimrod is a twin. His sister Romi feeling his connection and soul and waiting for his return. She too is fighting for her twins life and her own. Their family unable to be whole, to feel their own freedom, when their son and brother is being held hostage.
The terrorists broadcasted a video of them abducting Nimrod and his body dragged with Ill intention into G@za. From returned hostages, the family knows that Nimrod is alive in captivity.
These are the pages ripped from Nimrod’s youth. The pages of his life stolen from him. Please 🙏 share Nimrod’s story. Help this be a chapter of horror that the Cohen family can put behind them. May they start to heal with Nimrod in their arms.
And may we see the page of Nimrod’s reunion with Romi, Yotam, his parents and all who love him. NOW!
This is Omer Wenkert’s story. Ripped from his life and his family on October 7. Omer and his best friend Kim went out to the Nova festival together. They were the best of friends.
Omer’s family sent me the sweet photo with Kim fake-punching Omer. He accepts the punch. His smile set into a smirk. You can tell that Omer loves Kim. His friendship with Kim is special.
And now over.
Omer and Kim ran towards a shelter when the October attack began. They hid with others as bullets rained down on them. A shelter with no protection from evil.
Kim died in that shelter. Her beautiful life taken too soon. Omer was dragged alive from that shelter and into captivity. Omer’s friend noticed a picture of Omer – it was a true horror to digest. A picture of a loving, sweet natured, devoted brother and son bound and lying on his stomach on the floor. His neck craning to see above and behind him. Perhaps his captors asked him to look at their camera.
Captured in a still. A picture of a 22 year old boy, who had come to dance and now was not moving to any music. Captured in the photograph is the sheer terror of a 22 year old boy, who has lost so much in the past few hours. The music stopped, his best friend Kim died and death surrounded him.
That’s the last picture of 22 year old Omer.
229 days ago.
Today I finished Omer’s book. I don’t believe in chance. I reached out to Omer’s family yesterday and I was so surprised to hear that today, May 22 is Omer’s birthday.
We are all meant to wish for Omer’s release. That is the only birthday present he wants.
The family asks for pictures of us holding our fingers up to mark his 23rd birthday.
I drew Omer’s beautiful parents, with their fingers raised to make 23.
23 years of love for their eldest son and they deserve 100 more years.
Their hands are celebrating and soon Omer 🙏 will be in their arms – a true celebration.
Wishing Omer a birthday of revealed and sweet miracles. Health, happiness and the next picture we see of Omer – let it be home with his family.
Judy Weinstein Haggai and Gadi Haggai – true love at its finest. Musical together, lyrical in poetic haikus (Judy) gifted in culinary skills (Gadi).
A Match made in heaven and taken together to heaven. They lived a life of harmony, jazz and peace. They built a home of acceptance for all, love and respect . They raised children that raised children and Judy was blessed with a mother in this world. Her beautiful mother, at 96 years old, got to see Judy and Gadi thrive. In their love for one another and for their extended family and kibbutz.
On October 7, the world woke up to horror. Gadi and Judy had started their day like every morning day. Judy writing her daily Haiku, Gadi brewing his homemade coffee, meditation and their morning walk on the kibbutz they so loved.
Their love story, their life story was ripped brutally from this world. Their souls, that fit together perfectly, left together. Their bodies are still held in G@za, their family unable to mourn them. Judy is Canadian, American and Israeli. Gadi is American and Israeli. Their children wish to bury them with the respect they deserve and showed unconditionally to others.
Judy and Gadi.
Soulmates. Souls that need to be returned.
This is Ofer Kalderon, brutally ripped from the picturesque beauty of Kibbutz Nir Oz. Lately, with the onslaught of rockets, his young son Erez, would visit his cousins on the kibbutz and instantly confirm where the bomb shelter was. Just in case.
When Ofer was taken hostage with his daughter Sahar 16 and son Erez (who turned 12 on October 26 in captivity) his worst fears turned into his living nightmare.
Erez and Sahar were kept in captivity- separated from their father. The children were released on November 27 in a hostage exchange. Their father, devoted and loving, remains in captivity.
Ofer is a people person who loves everyone. Ofer is a master carpenter with golden hands. He loves mountain biking and adventure and shares his love of bikes with his youngest son.
His oldest daughter Gaya describes her father as her best friend. Someone she shares her every day life with and who she misses in every moment.
Ofer has been in captivity for over 304 days. His children that have been released can not begin to heal without their father’s return.
A return to his life. To his Kibbutz that he loves.
It is a life that will forever have many missing parts from his heart, as the kibbutz of Nir Oz suffered unimaginable losses on October 7.
The healing can only begin when everyone returns. Those like Ofer for rehabilitation and reunions. And those that have to be returned for respectful burial on the Kibbutz that they loved, lived and died on.
This is Itay Swirvsky ; Itai Svirsky.
Itay is the middle child, sandwiched between his older twin siblings and his younger brother.
Itay is sensitive and gifted with a golden heart. He is generous and known as someone who can be counted on. One of his friends Dror, recalled how Itay was always there for him, but also was exceptional in caring about everyone.
Once when Itay worked as a waiter, an older lady would come in to complain about her life. One day she asked to borrow a large sum of money. Itay gave the lady the money she needed without expecting or receiving it back.
That same trait endeared Itay to everyone. He was generous, humble, sensitive and wise. He was the favorite uncle and the dedicated grandson and son.
From returned hostages we know that Itay survived 99 days of torture – only to be murdered with cruelty. Filmed in his final moments.
We know that Itay accepted his fate that he knew was his death, but we can not accept his unmarked, unknown grave.
Itay, In life, was a true friend. It is in his death, that we must all be the good friend and bring Itay back to his family and the restful, respectful burial he deserves.
This is Almog Sarusi. May I introduce him to you?
I was texting with his younger sister before Shabbat and all Shabbat I was thinking about Almog.
I thought about Almog’s heart, his guitar – that he brought on the many trips he took, the way he embraced life with music, love and endless devotion to others. Always being the person his family and friends can count on.
I am nearing 80 books written for our beloved hostages and there is never a story that doesn’t pierce my heart.
I say my heart is being held together by the love from the hostage families and the people that echo the sentiment of enough is enough. Let our beloved hostages go. But the truth is my heart breaks on “cut along these lines” perforated breaks from each additional story. And October 7 has left us with an arsenal of stories. But, each story is a life story. A beloved son, brother, friend, boyfriend, stolen. Ripped from their lives.
And so this story. The story of Almog, is ripped. I rip the papers I use – to mimic the force in which Almog was ripped from his life and family. A normal Shabbat day. A regular dance party that Almog loved to attend. He went with friends and his girlfriend Shahar. Almog’s friends were murdered and his girlfriend of 3 1/2 years died in front of him. Almog did not try and run away, instead he stayed with his critically wounded girlfriend and risked his own life to let hers end with the image of his loving face.
Almog is brilliant. You can actually see it in his smile. His smile is kind and full of life, but his eyes twinkle with wisdom. Almog comes from a family that’s close knit and strong. I’ve watched videos of his family fighting for his release, but also fighting for their son with prayers.
I included a picture of Almog’s father from a video I watched. Almog’s father spends days beseeching others to recognize G-d in their lives. To pray for his son and the other hostages.
Please pray for Almog Ben Nira and all our beloved hostages to return.
Almog is loved beyond measure and he is missed in every moment.
This is Itay Chen, just 19 years old. A middle child amongst 3 brothers. A loving boyfriend, a beloved son and a cherished grandson.
Itay always loved adventure. Travelling all over the country, hiking, driving fast and smiling wide. Itay was a great basketball player, who loved both sports and music. When Itay heard music, his body would automatically start dancing to the beat.
Itay, a senior counsellor for his youth movement in Netanya, was always surrounded by friends who felt comforted by his warm and sunny presence.
Itay was in a loving relationship with his girlfriend Neta – who he called “the love of his life.”
On October 7, 2023 the Chen family was informed that their young son Itay was taken hostage into Gaza. As a dual American and Israeli citizen, his parents mobilized to fight for the return of their son along with the other hostages.
In March 2024 they were informed of the heartbreaking news that Itay was murdered on October 7 and his body was taken into Gaz@ as a hostage. The family chose not to sit Shiva for their son. They are waiting for Itay’s body to return home, to the land he so loved, for a proper burial. Only then will they be able to mourn. Only then will they sit Shiva.
Itay, in life, was a peacekeeper and a bright light to those around him. His smile lit up a room and brought happiness to those around him.
In Itay’s brutal murder and early death- is the cruelty of an enemy that holds bodies as captives. Not allowing families to bury their loved ones and a place to mourn their son.
The world must demand that each beloved hostage be seen as more than a name on a list. Read and feel Itay’s mother Hagit’s words. Her son Itay is not a name on a list. He is the child she carried for 9 months and raised for 19 years. He is the child she protected. The child she deserves to bring to rest.
19 years old is a child still. And 19 years old- Itay will forever remain.
Our hearts are with the Chen Family.
This is Yonatan Samerano’s story. A young 21 year old man with a love of music, dance and life. Yonatan was the life of every party. He brought joy where ever he went.
On October 6th he went to the Nova festival. When the attack began, Yonatan escaped to Kibbutz Beeri. Hoping to find safety and refuge in the kibbutz, they were met by the same terror they were running from.
In the aftermath of the horrific day of destruction, the Samerano’s searched for their son. They assumed he would be with his friend Maor Gratzyani. After a few days Maor’s body was found.
It was believed that Yonatan had been taken captive and the Samerano’s fought for their innocent son to be returned.
On December 4, 2023 the IDF announced that the terrorists were holding Yonatan’s holy body. He had been murdered on October 7. There is video of Yonatan’s body being kidnapped from Beeri. A UNWRA working carrying his body into captivity. First looting Yonatan’s lifeless body and then kidnapping him.
Ayelet and Kobi are waiting to mourn their beautiful son. To allow their son, with the constant smile, to rest in the peace he lived for and died for.
For we must remember Yonatan was murdered and stolen from a peaceful night. A night of celebrating unity, music, dance and love.
Yonatan was stolen by an organization that masquerades as peaceful when there is no peace for Yonatan yet.
Share Yonatan’s story and help bring Yonatan home for a respectful burial in the land he loved.
May all our beloved hostages return home NOW.
Maya and Itay Regev went with their best friend Omer Shem Tov to the Nova festival on October 7.
They are now free without Omer.
Here without him.
But also, here with so much hope.
I have heard Maya and Itay speak of the cruelty they endured in captivity and they speak to help bring awareness to those left behind like their dear friend Omer.
Itay and Omer were kept together. We heard from Itay, after his release on the 54th day of his captivity, how Omer stayed strong and with the belief that it was just a a matter of time, “to hold on just a little bit longer”.
Omer, with the beautiful blue eyes and charming smile. A kind and humble character, beloved by all his many cousins and friends. The “Sunny “ boy to his mother and now to all of us. We see his beautiful, sunny face and shining eyes – looking at us from posters that declare this innocent, loving and beloved boy is a hostage! It’s really hard to fathom and yet, it’s the painful truth.
We are here without Omer.
But Omer is there, holding on.
We must bring Omer and each of our beloved 100 hostages home. Now!
This is Gadi Moses, his life story ripped open and pages pulled apart on October 7, 2023.
Gadi is one of the founders of his Kibbutz Nir Oz. A man who loves the land and people of Israel. A world class potato farmer- and a world class father and grandfather.
Gadi’s son Yair speaks about his father’s strength. Yair pictures his father alive because his father is strong, physically and mentally. We have seen Gadi in a propaganda video released by h@m@s on December 19 2023. Gadi was shown with Elad Katzir.
-Elad’s body has since been rescued and returned to Israel for a respectful burial.
At the time of this writing Gadi has been held hostage for 456 days. Long days. His son Yair, his daughter Moran, his grandchildren, community and all people of conscience- join together to demand Gadi’s release.
I am writing Gadi’s story today and wanted to share why today? I have 12 stories left to write and there is never any “by chance” with narrating our beloved hostages stories. I reached out to @lisanschechter for some help as she has helped me before with this work of my heART. Right away she shared about her recent visit to Israel and being with Gadi Moses’s family.
When Lisa shares, when I share, when we all share their stories. Each beloved hostages story. Gadi’s story. We ensure that they are not forgotten and we show the families of our beloved hostages that we are standing firmly with them.
Thank you @yairmoses and thank you @noam_benishay @moranbenishay @yoni_asher for sharing your beloved Gadi with us.
Together we will draw in Gadi’s reunion page. A man of peace, love, laughter and family.
This is Liri. Her story is one of laughter, love, music, adventure and family. Her story is paused. The ending unwritten. We have to all be a part of her happy ending and hear her voice singing again.
Ori. My light. Our light. This is your story, paused. As I coloured your story, I kept thinking about how you went back to try and save people from the Nova festival- when you had already escaped. You went back. Let your kindness echo in this dark world. Your light does not belong in tunnels, underground. You, Ori- are meant to light up lives.
This is Romi’s story. I started and stopped colouring many times. I listened to Merav, Romi’s mother speak of the 4 hours she spent on the phone with her daughter Romi on October 7. No mother should have to comfort their daughter through such trauma and abuse. But, Merav had to. Merav, recognizing that those around Romi were dying and unable to provide or send the safety that Romi needed. Instead, Merav found the superhuman strength to calm her daughter and to talk about where they would go when this was all over. The coffee shop they had just been to, the trip to South America they would take. Romi needs medical attention for her gunshot wound. She needs her freedom. She needs her mother. She needs her life back. How can Romi’s basic needs be met with such deafening silence by the world. Where are all the mothers? Everyone should be made to listen to Romi’s mother talking about those 4 hours on the phone with her daughter and how she felt helpless. And then we should get up and help. Keep screaming Romi’s name.
This is Matan’s story. Matan Zangauker was loving and living his life. A beautiful smile, a warm laugh, cherished friends and the family he was so very close to. Matan and his partner Ilana Gritzewsky made sure to always travel to Ofakim on Friday nights to spend Shabbat dinner with Einav, Natalie and Shani. Matan’s mother and sisters. Matan is the type of man that truly listens to others. Matan sees what others need and where he can help provide and jumps in. It is that strong character that made Matan into a father figure for his younger siblings when he himself was still a teenager. Ilana, Matan’s partner matched his love for his family and his devotion. Ilana is Matan’s partner in everything and when they were abducted into G@z@ together- It was only there that they were separated. Ilana returned after 55 days in captivity- but Ilana can not fully return to her life. She has simply come to the other side. Where those whose loved ones remain in hell- live a life of motion but not fully amongst the living. Ilana knows where Matan is. He is with half her heart.
I watched Einav say that she was told to stay home and wait for her son to be returned. It is a wait she can no longer endure. With devotion and desperation- Einav takes to the street to call for her son’s return. What will she tell Matan when he returns after 219 days? That she waited in her house, sitting by the window? She wants to pull him into a hug and say, “I am exhausted but I never stopped- now you are here and it is time to rest.”
We wait to hear that Matan is on his way home to his mother. He will text her those 3 words “here. Here. Here” but he will mean- he is home. He is “here”
We wait to hear that Ilana is with Matan. That Natalie and Shani are reunited with their brother. Their protector.
I wanted to thank @dalitgritram who reached out to me to share her sister Ilana’s story. I know from talking with Dalit that this is a family of strength, connection and endless love. Dalit looks after her older sister Ilana, just as Ilana looks after her. Matan, Ilana, Dalit, Einav, Natalie, Shani and cousins. Your love is stronger than their hate.
This is Emily Tehila Damari ripped from her life story. A life that is full of friends and family. Emily is the center of her friends. The girl that starts the party. The girl everyone wants to sit next to. Where Emily is- the fun is.
It makes sense that someone so vibrant, happy and loved would be the center of the party. What I found remarkable is that Emily made her parents part of her social circle. Emily has tremendous respect for her parents- but she also showed her friends by her social media posts, by her arm slung around her mother’s shoulder, that being close with your mother is cool.
I agree, Emily. Because my mom is my best friend too.
Emily, your mother waits for you to return to her arms. Your friends wait for you to rejoin their circle and be the girl that centres them. Your father and brothers, your nieces and nephews- you are missed in every moment that they wait for you to return to them.
Your beloved dog Chucha murdered in front of you. One of your friends, Shiri, wrote that when she saw Mia Lienberg return with her dog Bella in the ceasefire in November 2023- she wished she could imagine Emily with her dog Chucha. That you would have that small comfort in the hell you were being kept in. The hell you are still held in.
Then in January 2024, released hostage Dafna Elyakim, 15, said in an Israeli television interview that she and her younger sister, Ella Elyakim, were taken into Hamas’s underground tunnels, where they met five other female hostages who haven’t yet returned — Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Romy Gonen, Agam Berger and Emily Damari. (*Taken from times of Israel article)
Emily, Liri, Naama, Romi, Agam we know you were seen alive and suffering in January. And we are waiting for your return.
May the merit of your beautiful life, the way you honor your parents, the way you love your friends- be the light that shines and brings you out of the tunnels of G@z@.
Emily.
Everyone is waiting for you and you are on everyone’s mind and in our hearts.
Let Emily and each of our beloved hostages go free.
This is Sagui Dekel Chen’s story ripped from his life. A son, father, husband and friend. Sagui is an innovator, a brilliant mind who excels at everything he touches. Converting and retrofitting old buses is a passion of his.
Sagui grew up on his beloved kibbutz of Nir Oz. Born to an American father- Sagui holds both American and Israeli citizenship. Sagui’s father Jonathan fights for his release both in the United States and Israel.
On the black Shabbat of October 7, Sagui was the one who sounded the alarm of the terrorists infiltrating their Kibbutz. Sagui rushed to protect his wife, 2 daughters and unborn child. He knew the dangers and the evil he would be facing. Sagui told his wife Avital to stay in their shelter, he expressed his love and that he did not think they would survive if they left their hiding space.
That day Sagui went to battle against terrorists. He is a loving, devoted father and husband. He went out to protect his home and his family. Some 200 terrorists infiltrated Nir Oz and burnt, raped and murdered 40 residents and abducted 80 more.
Sagui’s wife Avital was 7 months pregnant on October 7. Avital gave birth to their third daughter without her husband by her side.
Sagui alerted his kibbutz, thereby giving others time to hide and survive. He went out to protect others. Where is Sagui now? He has spent over a year in captivity. His newborn daughter is soon turning one years old
Sagui’s daughter, Shahar Mazal has never met her father. Her hero.
Please, share Sagui’s story. Let us hope, pray and also rise to action to bring Sagui and 100 of our beloved hostages home NOW!
Edani-his mother Yael calls him. “My Edan.”
The first born child of Yael and Adi Alexander. The older brother to Mika and Roy. The caring friend. The loving cousin.
Today on the 420th day since October 7. Marking 420 days that Edan, an American and Israel citizen, has been held captive along with 100 others. The terrorists released a “Proof of life” propaganda video. Psychological torture. Horror for our hearts and humanity.
Horror for the hearts of Edan’s family, their community of Tenafly, New Jersey and the nation of Jews and Allies, who surround the Alexander’s with love. Horror for Edan’s beautiful, young, innocent heart.
Heartache and hurt for Edan’s heart.
This is not a proof of life video. Thank G-d the video shows Edan alive and begging to be saved.
But, the proof of Edan’s life is in those that love him, those that fight for his release. The proof of Edan’s life is in his character, his strength, his hope.
The video tonight was yet more proof of Ham@s cruelty. It was proof of the pain Edan has endured. It is proof that our beloved hostages have survived 420 days and they are counting on us to save them.
We must prove ourselves to be worthy of a young beautiful boy like Edan.
This is Omer Neutra. An American boy who excels at sports, sportsmanship and is devoted to everyone he meets. He is a devoted son, an older brother and best friend to his brother Daniel. Omer is the type of friend that everyone feels close to. Those that he meets for a moment, to those he meets at camp, in sports programs, in mechina, his army preparation and everyone he comes into contact with. In fact, I was personally messaged from a friend of his and asked to write his story. To be friends with Omer is to feel cared for. To be in his orbit- is to feel the way he protects everyone and you can’t help but smile when his smile lights up his face.
On October 7, Omer an American boy from Long Island, was stationed near Gaza. He was kidnapped and has not been heard from since. I couldn’t find the details of his abduction. But, then does it matter how he was taken? We know it was not kindly done. What matters is that Omer is brought home. I learnt a lot about Omer from his family. His brother Daniel gave an incredibly painful speech and he asked if “we can imagine” what he is going through. Can we? Are we? And from Omer’s parents, I learnt about the book they carry with them. Pictures of the boy Omer is. Pictures of his life and everything he loves. His smile in every Picture. Can we imagine it? And if we can- can we all imagine Omer coming home now! We need him home. To Ronen, Orna and Daniel. Your son is beautiful. Inside and out. I’m praying that he comes home to you soon.
(Disclaimer: I only drew 2 of Omer’s cousins, but I did watch all the videos of his cousins, aunts and uncles speaking about how much they miss him. It is very obvious that Omer is coming home to a family that loves him and is painfully waiting for his return).
Bring Omer home now!
This is Evyatar David ripped from his life story on October 7. Evyatar is so well loved. He is easy to love and full of heart. Despite having a quit demeanour, his family says, he radiates a captivating magnetism that draws in everyone around him. Evyatar’s family is all musical and their house and hearts ache for Evyatar to come home and once again pick up his guitar and fill the house with his music and energy. This past summer 2023 Evyatar was a leader on birthright, sharing his love of Israel with his group. Dylan Monfried, who was in Evyatar’s group describes a leader who made everyone feel included and heard. Dylan said “there was never an empty seat beside Evyatar. He sparked a connection in even the shortest conversations. Evyatar wasn’t the loudest, chattiest or wildest, but he had this incredible ability to make everyone feel valued and special.” As I wrote Evyatar’s story right after his best friend Guy’s story- their story’s mirrored each other. It is their families hope that even in the hell they are currently held captive in- they hopefully have each other. That seat next to Evyatar’s love, care and empathy is hopefully filled by his friend Guy. They are in hell together, a chapter no one wished for them. But, their mothers and families hope to see them walk out together. Evyatar- your curly dark hair, your soulful eyes, your wanderlust and your beautiful heart, must come back to your family, friends and our world. We need more people like you to learn from and to live with in harmony. The harmony that you create.
This is Guy Gilboa-Dalal brutally ripped from his life story on October 7. Guy went to his first rave. He went with close friends, Evyatar David, Idan Hermati and Ron Zarfati. Idan and his girlfriend Ron were murdered. Guy and Evyatar were taken hostage. Gal, Guy’s brother, came to surprise Guy at the festival. He surprised Guy, they have a selfie together that they sent their mother and moments later the terror began.
Gal would return home without his brother. Guy would end up in captivity. The world has seen pictures of Guy being taken and then being held with horror in his eyes. The world knows how big Guy’s smile can be bc we have seen pictures from the Nova festival. A selfie with his older brother moments before his life was brutally ripped apart. We have the proof of how quickly his smile faded.
We know from the way we love that our life story intersects with others and we share chapters with them. When I read everything I could about the 4 friends that went together to dance in peace, I could feel how similar they were in their lives. Musicians, artists, lovers of sports, sharing the same energy and the most sincere smiles that lit up their whole faces. Their smiles brought others in. I think a lot about our beloved hostages and how now they are in a chapter of hell together. I believe that they know how much we want them home and how deeply they are missed. I believe that they need to come home now to continue living their lives. I like to think that the beautiful, smiling souls that were taken to heaven too early on October 7 are also crying out “bring them home.” The true friendships that were ripped apart that day, some meeting death to save their friends are lighting the way for them to return. A group of 4 friends went to the Nova festival. Guy, Evyatar, Idan and Roy and no one has returned!!!
Idan and Roy are resting now- may their memories be a comfort always. Guy and Evyatar are living in hell. Please spread their story. Please help them restart their lives. Please help get them out of Hell now!
This is Agam. Her story paused. Her violin silent. Her music stopped. Agam is just 19 years old and has her whole life story ahead of her. Help me scream to the world that silencing a beautiful girl like Agam is not acceptable. Bring her back home to her family that treasures her and to the story of her life that she will continue NOW set to the music of her violin.
This is Inbar Haiman. 27 years old. The daughter of Haim and Ifat and sister to younger brother Ido. Inbar was a talented and loving woman, who was always giving to others. Inbar was creative and full of life and she shared her passion and her art with the world around her. A graffiti artist, a passionate creative and maccabi Haifa Fan- Inbar was always smiling and always sharing. She loved the outdoors and hiking and even completed the entire Israel trail. Inbar was taken hostage alive on October 7. Witnesses saw Inbar hiding amongst the bushes and being dragged away by terrorists brandishing knives. Inbar was taken alive and murdered in captivity.
Inbar, known to many as Pink for her incredible graffiti art, which she signed off as “Pink” is remembered by her talent and by her love. Her partner Noam Alon, whom she met while studying filmmaking and visual communication in Chaifa, misses the love of his life. Inbar’s parents, Haim and Ifat, brother Ido and many aunts, unless and cousins miss their beautiful Inbar in every moment. The world misses the talented “Pink” who not only shared her talent with the world around her, but also shared the colors and beauty that were inside Inbar – now immortalized on the walls that shine with Pink’s signature artistic touch.
May Inbar come home to rest in peace, in pink.
In the land she loved and the land that loved her colors. May Inbar and all our beloved hostages return NOW.
This is Tal Haimi’s story. The pages of his story brutally ripped out on October 7, 2023. Tal’s story is a love story. Growing up on the idyllic kibbutz of Nir Yitzchak, marrying his childhood sweetheart. Building their home in the Kibbutz they were both born in- continuing the legacy of their families that planted strong roots with beautiful branches.
I found a picture on Ella’s instagram page from October 6. A beautiful picture of their kibbutz with the caption, “To be a strong community you need to work hard and find centers of light.” Tal was a light. He was a much loved father, husband and hero. Together with Ella he was strengthening their Kibbutz, raising their 3 children and excited with the fresh news of Ella’s pregnancy.
October 7 destroyed so many lives and left a path of destruction through the South of Israel and through all our hearts. The tentacles of grief, the enormous loss, the empty chairs and the knowledge that just a few kilometres away our beloved hostages waited to be saved- broke our hearts.
For the Haimi family they held onto the hope that Tal would return and they would welcome their 4th child together.
On December 13 it was announced that Tal was murdered on October 7 and his body taken hostage.
Ella described a relief of sorts. A closure. She no longer had to worry about her beloved husband. Tal would be forever missed, but his soul had returned to heaven. The Haimi’s buried an empty casket and sat shiva in the hotel they had been evacuated to. But, Ella heartbreakingly explained, her children asked questions. Smart, thoughtful questions. How could their father be gone, without his body returned?
Ella knows that true comfort can only come with Tal’s holy body returning to the land he loved and fiercely protected. That as a family they need a place to visit Tal and to mourn.
Lotan, who was born after his father’s murder- carries a name that shares the letters of Tal’s name and is a reference to the region that hosted the evacuated Haimi family.
We must return Tal to the land he loved. Remember that “to be a strong community we need to work hard & find the centres of light.” Our lights are Tal and 99 beloved hostages.
