Soroka Magazine

AMessage from the Director of Soroka Medical Center

As these pages go to print and as the ceasefire continues to hold, we are looking back at the fifty days of Operation Protective Edge. These were fifty days of fighting and standing firm both on the battlefront and on the home front, and fifty days of Soroka’s staff fighting heroically to save the lives of our wounded soldiers. ‏ Soroka is only too experienced in responding to emergencies, expertly switching from routine to crisis mode. We moved unprotected wards t o protected, missile-proof areas, reinforced our teams, and prepared for long, hard days and many casualties.

‏ While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers fought for us in the Gaza Strip, we fought to save the lives of the injured soldiers in the ER, the Trauma Unit, the operating rooms, and the intensive care units.

‏ We did our utmost to return the wounded soldiers to their mothers and fathers. Working tirelessly, simply refusing to go home, the staff demonstrated their unflagging dedication to the fulfillment of this crucially important mission. ‏ We were uplifted by the immeasurable support and gratitude of the injured and their families, VIPs, throngs of concerned c itizens, and colleagues. The media was warm and positive in its coverage, highlighting Soroka’s professional medical care and exceptional organization. ‏ This was a test of our ability to function optimally in a prolonged emergency situation, and we passed it with flying colors. Exhibiting remarkable dedication, our staff proved that when professionalism is combined with caring and empathy, the sky's the limit.

‏ The media coverage of the wonderful work of our teams put the spotlight on Soroka’s well-deserved place in the Israeli health system and as a national asset that must be nurtured and supported.

‏ I am confident that we will know how to respond to any future challenges that arise. Above all, I am proud to head a hospital with such an outstanding and dedicated staff.

‏ I sincerely hope that the future will bring long-lasting peace and calm.

Dr. Ehud Davidson ‏ Director of the Southern District of Clalit Health Services and ‏ Soroka Medical Center

On the cover: A flower for an injured soldier. Photograph by: Rachel David

Published by Soroka Medical Center - External Affairs Unit Photographs by: Rachel David, Dina Frankel Send comments to: OrnaMy@clalit.org.il

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