The Story of Shachar Amarilio: A Community Coming Together
Shachar Amarilio contracted a necrotizing fasciitis infection (“flesh-eating bacteria”) and was hospitalized in critical condition—sedated, on a ventilator, and connected to an ECMO machine as he fought for his life. As the primary breadwinner, Shachar’s sudden illness left the family in a dire position. His partner, Noa, left everything to remain by his side 24/7, leaving the family—including their two young children (ages 5 and 7)—without any income.
After several months of hospitalization, their friends turned to us to help them survive this grueling period. We were asked to raise funds for living expenses, medical costs, and financial support for Noa and the children during the time she was forced to leave her job to be with Shachar. In collaboration with the Give organization, we launched a crowdfunding campaign. Thanks to the generosity of 1,556 donors, we succeeded in raising approximately 380,000 NIS.
Tragically, before we could present Noa with the funds collected, Shachar passed away.
During the meeting to present the donations, Noa shared memories of Shachar, their children, and the peaceful life they shared as a family before the hardship of the hospital stay. Noa asked us to be her voice and to express her deepest gratitude to every donor who took part in this mission. At Noa’s request, we share her message of thanks to all who partnered with us:
“Dear and generous people,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support and love you showered upon us. I wanted so much for Shachar to experience the emotion of these gestures and this love alongside me. While he was sedated, I told him about the mobilization for him, for us. I want to believe he felt it; during the days of the campaign, there was actually an improvement in his condition, giving me reason to hold onto the belief that some of that love reached him. For me, you gave so much strength and hope.
To my unbearable grief, other forces were also at work…
I want to thank you on my behalf, on Shachar’s behalf, and on behalf of Omri and Daniel. Because of you, I was able to devote myself entirely to Shachar and the children during his four months of hospitalization. Because of you, we now have more ‘air’ to breathe as we acclimate, adjust, and relearn how to live after this disaster.
You have moved me to the depths of my soul, and this is forever etched in my heart. It is priceless.
Special thanks to the ‘Ish Tzaddik Hayah’ organization—to Israel, Avital, and Rabbi Chaim Eideles of the Goren community—for your work, your purity of heart, your sensitivity, and your warmth. To Naor, Dana, and Omri—Shachar’s amazing friends whom I am privileged to call my friends as well.
There truly are righteous people in this world. This gives me strength. Thank you.”
Attached are photos from the meeting.
