ALYNformation

In this issue 

In the wake of war and destruction, ALYN Hospital remains steadfast in its mission to deliver care with professionalism and unwavering dedication. We encourage you to watch this video from ALYN, narrated by Dr. Maurit Beeri, Director General of ALYN Hospital, capturing the early morning hours of this past Saturday — moments that demanded swift coordination, decisive leadership, and extraordinary commitment. Within a very short time, our medical and logistics teams mobilized to safely transfer ventilated children to a specially designated protected area — a space made possible through the generosity of donors like you. ALYN Hospital believes that optimal rehabilitation does not pause for quieter days. Even in times of emergency, children continue moving forward. They do not wait for a better world — they are active partners in creating it. Every milestone, every breath, is a small victory and a powerful reminder of the strength of hope. Your support ensures that we can continue to protect, heal, and empower Israel’s most vulnerable children — even in times of crisis.

Each year as Passover approaches, we are called to do more than just retell the story of our Exodus from Egypt—we are expected to imagine that we, ourselves, are going through this experience. This journey is not only the story of our ancestors. It is a story being written right now, one painstaking step at a time, by the children of ALYN Hospital.

Each year, as Passover approaches, we are invited to do more than retell an ancient story—we are called to live its deepest truth. The journey from bondage to freedom is not only the story of our ancestors. It is the story being written right now, one painstaking step at a time, by the children of ALYN Hospital. ALYN Hospital is Israel’s only pediatric rehabilitation center—a place where children with the most complex physical challenges come to fight for their independence. These are children who have survived catastrophic injuries, debilitating illness, and conditions present since birth. They arrive at ALYN dependent. They leave transformed. For them, freedom is not a destination. It is the first step taken. A breath drawn without a machine. A word spoken after months of silence. As American Friends of ALYN Hospital, we are the bridge that makes these miracles possible. Your gift—made right here in the United States—directly funds the life-changing treatments, advanced therapies, and innovative equipment that give these children a fighting chance. With your support, a child can receive a ventilator to breathe, and begin to speak after a traumatic brain injury, or take their first independent steps after years in a wheelchair.

The Israeli archery team arrived at the "ALYN" Children and Youth Rehabilitation Hospital in Jerusalem, and held a joint training session with the archery group of children treated at the veteran medical institution. Among the team's athletes were the new European champion in the mixed doubles competition, Michaela Moshe (Maccabi Tel Aviv), the 2024 European champion and Israeli record holder, Shamai Yamarom (Maccabi Archers First), and archer Yehuda Cohen (Maccabi Archers Jerusalem). The connection between Alin and the archery team happened naturally. The hospital, which is considered the only one in the country specializing in the rehabilitation of children and youth, established an archery group several years ago, due to the fact that archery is considered a therapeutic sport recommended as a rehabilitation activity. In fact, archery allows children to see themselves not only as patients, but as active participants in the process of growth and development. The children treated at the hospital met the team representatives, and for several hours enjoyed a welcome and empowering leisure activity. The archery group at the hospital is a project jointly led by archery instructor Eliyahu Berlowitz-Levin and physiotherapist Amichai Gutman. Dr. Maurit Beeri , CEO of Alyn Hospital: "Archery is an innovative and unique addition that integrates into rehabilitation activities at Alyn because it does not require walking or running abilities, and combines strengthening back muscles, hand-eye coordination, concentration on a goal, and age-appropriate social activity. As such, it joins a host of activities that encourage children's motivation to improve as part of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation process." Amit Shiner-Dandkar , Chairman of the Archery Association: "Archery can be adapted to any person and any physical limitation, and beyond its physical-motor benefits, it has a special empowering power. We were happy to come with the archers of the Israeli national team for a joint training session with the archery team that trains at the hospital, believing that the meeting would be meaningful for both the young archers at Alyn and the archers of the national team, and it was exciting and heart-warming to see the connection between them." About Alyn Hospital: Alyn Hospital treats children with complex physical problems that affect their development, including children who have been injured in accidents, survived serious illnesses, are dealing with birth defects, are recovering from advanced orthopedic surgeries, and more. Alyn has full hospitalization departments, day hospitalization, multi-team clinics, a therapeutic sports system, and more. Alyn has an innovation center that operates a system of solutions that are individually manufactured for children, as well as the ALYNnovation project that works with startup companies and international organizations leading to significant breakthroughs in the world of child rehabilitation.

In this issue 

As we look ahead, ensuring long-term support for ALYN means investing in younger leaders today. Through our Young Professionals initiative, AFAH is building a vibrant network dedicated to raising awareness, fostering community, and sustaining ALYN’s mission for generations to come. This has become a national movement with events held in Boston, NYC, LA, Chicago, and Austin. We recently hosted a Valentine’s Day–themed cocktail hour in Boston in partnership with Chai Life Boston, bringing together over 180 young Jewish professionals for a fun night of drinks. Our most recent event was Mind Over Wine in NYC , partnering with Moishe House UES and House of Lev, featuring mentalist Michael Samen. It’s shaping up to be an exciting night—good wine, great company, and a performance that’s all about surprises. conversation and plenty of bourekas and babka. Behind the scenes, we’ve also held a few meetings of our Young Professionals Committee as we work to expand the program and plan new ways for people to connect through future events and partnerships. We are always looking for people to join the committee. If you know anyone who may be interested, please reach out to Alex at alex@alynus.org . We’re looking forward to continuing the momentum with more events in the months ahead.

There is something extraordinary about the stretch of time we find ourselves in right now. We stand between two of the most spirited holidays on the Jewish calendar—Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees, and Purim, a celebration of resilience and joy. 

At ALYN Hospital, Purim isn't just another holiday. It's an experience — with the focus where it matters most: the children. From the moment families arrive, the halls are filled with laughter, music, and creative costumes that make every corner feel like a celebration. Kids and siblings donned vibrant masks and playful outfits, bringing playful energy to the hospital spaces. ALYN’s incredible team made sure that every child had a chance to take part in interactive Purim activities — from glittering art stations where they decorated groggers and crowns, to festive Purim décor that transforms the hospital into a world of color and imagination. Sweet holiday snacks are made special by the kids using the newly upgraded therapeutic kitchen with adjustable tables, sink, smart tech appliances, and wheelchair-friendly spaces. The delicious treats are shared throughout the day, and families and staff gather for moments of light-hearted fun that help brighten the routine of rehabilitation with the warmth of the holiday spirit. At ALYN, staff and families continuously come together to transform the day, year after year, into something truly special — a chance to create memories, share happiness, and make every child feel seen, cherished, and part of something in their journey towards independence.

In this issue 

By this point in January, most of us have already let go of at least a few New Year’s resolutions. Life gets busy, routines return, and good intentions often fall by the wayside. But at ALYN Hospital, there is no giving up.

Two new, innovative learning spaces have recently been unveiled at ALYN Rehabilitation Hospital , creating joyful environments where children and teens can learn, create, and connect while continuing their rehabilitation journeys. Designed with care, creativity, and intention, these multipurpose activity rooms reflect ALYN’s commitment to treating the whole child—not only through clinical therapy but also through play, exploration, and meaningful engagement. Filled with therapeutic toys, games, and hands-on activities, the spaces invite children to move, imagine, and interact in ways that feel natural and fun. One of the most exciting features is a ceiling-mounted projection system that brings interactive games directly onto the floor. These games encourage children to stand, walk, crawl, jump, and explore movement at their own pace—turning therapy into an experience that feels more like play. Through this innovative technology, mobility, coordination, and confidence are strengthened in an environment filled with laughter and encouragement.  These new spaces were made possible thanks to the support of SASA Setton and generous contributions from partners who believe deeply in ALYN’s mission. Their support is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that thoughtful initiatives can have on young lives. At ALYN, every detail matters. These new learning spaces are more than rooms—they are places where children discover what they can do, build independence, and experience the joy of progress, one step, jump, or game at a time.

Over the past few months, our events have created space for people to connect—through movement, learning, and shared experiences—while getting to know the work of American Friends of ALYN Hospital (AFAH). We kicked things off with a Barry’s Bootcamp class in Chelsea with Barry's , Empowered2Sweat, Moishe House, and Jukebox. These high-energy events brought together people from different circles and sparked new connections around a shared goal. Later in December, we gathered in Miami for a Challah Braid & Learn in Aventura—an evening filled with conversation, tradition, and learning—followed by a Pilates class in Miami Beach with Club Allenby that offered a more relaxed way to come together. Across all of these events, the focus stayed the same: building relationships and raising awareness for AFAH’s mission.

In this issue 

As we approach the close of 2025 and look ahead to 2026, I find myself reflecting on just how much we have accomplished together—and feeling deeply grateful for the community that made it all possible. This past year has been one of meaningful growth, connection, and impact for American Friends of ALYN Hospital. At the heart of it all has been our shared commitment to ensuring that the children of ALYN continue to receive the world-class, compassionate care they deserve. One of the highlights of the year was, once again, our strong participation in the annual Wheels of Love Bike Ride in Israel. Wheels of Love is more than a ride—it is a powerful expression of solidarity, determination, and love for ALYN and its children. Seeing riders come together from around the world to support the hospital remains one of the most inspiring reminders of what this community can accomplish.

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After a tragic road accident that nearly cost him his leg, Amri spent months in rehabilitation at ALYN Hospital before returning home to his friends and family—and along the way, his parents shared a message that stayed with us: "In a magical city, between mountains and quiet neighborhoods, there is a place like no other. Anyone lucky enough to arrive here discovers something wondrous, a home filled with superheroes disguised as everyday heroes, angels in the form of nurses and caregivers, and musicians conducting the orchestra in the shapes of doctors and therapists. Four months ago, we came here lost and hurting. Between long days and longer nights, within the walls of the ward, you lit a light for us, a light of gentleness, of patience, of boundless humanity. In a difficult time, you became our anchor, the steady hand that held us when our strength trembled, and the wide, wordless embrace that carried us forward. You do not only heal wounds, you also restore faith. You do not only treat the body, you also touch the soul. Thank you for being the light in our healing journey, for turning pain into hope…"