As a Jew who survived the horrors of World War II unscathed, Mr. Ignace Hellenberg was something of an anomaly. In the years following the war, Mr. Hellenberg found his calling in the world of art. A true connoisseur, he established an impressive collection of original pieces, among them works of the renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh.
An ardent supporter of the State of Israel, Mr. Hellenberg showed tremendous concern for the brave and dedicated solders of the Israel Defense Forces. Upon his passing in 2004, Mr. Hellenberg, who had no next of kin, left an impressive donation to the State of Israel in memory of his beloved parents, Sigmund and Betty Hellenberg, stipulating that the funds were to be used to establish rehabilitation hospitals for IDF veterans.
In fulfillment of his wishes, his legacy gift has helped fund the construction of the ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran Neuro-Orthopedic Rehabilitation Hospital, the very first of its kind in Israel’s southern region. Slated for completion in spring 2022, the hospital, will include two inpatient wards – neurological rehabilitation and orthopedic rehabilitation – each housing 36 beds and corresponding occupational therapy and physiotherapy departments, as well as a sports complex and a translational research institute. Another 36-bed ward will be added over the next two years. Housing for staff, students and volunteers has already been built adjacent to the hospital, facilitating convenience and staff availability.
The hospital has been specially designed to function during emergencies and crisis situations, which is particularly important considering its proximity to Gaza and the fact that the IDF is currently moving three army bases to the Negev. As per an agreement with the Ministry of Defense, all IDF soldiers wounded while in service in the southern region (or whose families live nearby) will be treated at the ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran Neuro-Orthopedic Rehabilitation Hospital, thereby cementing Mr. Hellenberg’s legacy of caring for generations to come.
YOUR Legacy of Caring: Remembering ADI in your will or bequest will create a lasting impact by establishing rehabilitative solutions for individuals from all backgrounds and levels of need and assisting in the ongoing rehabilitation and advancement of ADI’s residents with severe disabilities.
