In February, Dr. Robin (Rivky) Akselrud, an Occupational Therapist and Program Director at Hofstra University School of Health in New York, put her busy life on hold to volunteer together with three of her OT students at ADI Jerusalem. She so enjoyed the experience, that she vowed to return to Israel to assist the ADI family in the months ahead. When she heard that the Kaylie Rehabilitation Medical Center at ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran was in need of OTs to help heal the war-wounded civilian and military heroes of the Negev, she dropped everything (again) and made her way to southern Israel for a second round of volunteering. For two weeks in August, Robin spent her days working with a roster of grateful patients and her nights marveling at the beauty and scope of the rehabilitation village.
“As an OT and a professor, I find great joy and purpose in my work, and volunteering at ADI Negev took those emotions to the next level,” said Robin, when reflecting on her whirlwind volunteering adventure. “I was mesmerized and inspired by my patients’ stories of pain, resilience and recovery, and helping them restore function was a life-changing experience. It was so gratifying to see that I was directly impacting their lives with every sessions.”
“I was also blown away by the professional staff and the facilities at ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran – it is unlike anything I have ever seen before. It’s ‘the village that never sleeps,’ and it’s filled with people whose singular focus is empowering others. I witnessed OTs treating their patients like members of their own families, and I felt an aura of love and camaraderie in every corner of this extraordinary community. It’s a wonder to behold, and I can’t wait to return!”
Thank you for your passion, professionalism and wonderful partnership, Robin! We look forward to welcoming you back again soon!
