The late Jonathan Yitzchak Samo’s family gathered at the Schneider Pediatric Center to meet with the medical staff who performed his heart transplant. Dr. Lena Korn Feldman, director of Beilinson Hospital, spoke first, expressing her deep condolences to the Samo family and sharing how deeply the hospital staff was touched by Jonathan’s tragic death.
Tammy Fink, the transplant coordinator at Beilinson Hospital, also shared her personal connection to the situation as a mother of a soldier currently inside Gaza. She spoke about the unique bond between mothers of soldiers and expressed her deep understanding of the pain and sacrifice involved in such situations.
Moshe Samo, Jonathan’s father, then spoke about his son’s bravery and the impact of his organ donation on others. He highlighted how Jonathan’s generosity had brought hope to others in need and emphasized how deeply he felt proud of his son’s selflessness.
Prof. Dan Arabot and Prof. Yaron Barak, who performed the heart transplant, further emphasized the significance and emotional weight of the situation, expressing their deep connection to Jonathan and their gratitude for his gift. They also shared their appreciation for Tehilah Tespiya, an eight-month-old baby who received a liver lobe from Jonathan’s donation and is now thriving thanks to it.
The meeting served as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact of organ donation and how it brings hope to those in need during moments of profound grief and loss. The doctors at Schneider Center expressed their deep appreciation to Moshe Samo for his generosity towards his family members who have undergone treatment in Beilinson Hospital.
Overall, this emotional meeting underscored how generous acts can bring hope and healing during difficult times. It served as a testament to the power of compassionate care towards those affected by tragedy or illnesses that can help them through their darkest moments with kindness, love and support from strangers that become friends or even family members for them while they are battling with life-threatening conditions.