Prof. Osnat Levtzion-Korach, CEO of Shamir Medical Center (Assaf Harofeh), has returned from an emotional and transformative trip to Uganda, where she accompanied twenty grieving Israeli mothers who lost their sons in the Iron Swords War. The mission, organized by the nonprofit Journey 4Hope, emphasizes emotional resilience through nature, community, and guided reflection.
This was the fourth such trip organized by Journey 4Hope for bereaved mothers. During the journey, participants engaged in group healing circles, remembrance rituals, and quiet reflection amidst Uganda’s stunning savannah and river landscapes. Away from the pressures of daily life in Israel, the women found space to share memories, laughter, and hope.
“I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to participate in this Journey 4Hope delegation, which is doing extraordinary work with twenty bereaved mothers whose heroic sons fell in battle and were with us in spirit throughout the journey,” said Prof. Levtzion-Korach.
“I did not know what I would encounter when I joined, but I returned with a strong belief in the healing power of such an experience. These mothers, carrying the legacy of their heroic sons, are an incredible force.” She added, “Out of the pain and sorrow emerged moments of friendship, laughter, and hope. The natural surroundings gave us space to breathe, to heal hearts, and to discover the healing strength of this women’s community.”
Journey 4Hope’s programs are based on the idea that healing should be active, not passive. Instead of traditional therapy settings, participants connect with nature and movement, environments that promote openness, reflection, and self-expression.
The organization has led similar initiatives across Africa, South America, Europe, and Israel, and is now expanding to include follow-up support groups and resilience workshops. For Shamir Medical Center, the partnership with Journey 4Hope supports its growing focus on trauma and rehabilitation.
The hospital, which treated thousands of soldiers and civilians during the war, is now expanding its infrastructure to support the long-term physical and emotional recovery of affected families and veterans. “This journey reminded us that healing is not about erasing pain,” said Prof. Levtzion-Korach. “It’s about finding strength, meaning, and renewal, together.”
(jpost)