Open Letter to Dr Shachor

My story has a happy and healthy ending - thanks to Laniado Hospital and, most importantly, the skill, kindness and attention of Dr. Dov Shachor, Director of Surgery Department, who, literally, saved my life.

I was examined by my family doctor, who advised that I undergo hernia surgery. I was admitted to one of the largest hospitals in Tel Aviv, where I remained for 38 days. Due to the strike, operating rooms were closed, surgeries were not performed, and laboratory testing facilities, such as C.T., were unavailable. During my hospital stay, my condition deteriorated and 6 weeks later the Director of Surgery advised me to leave inasmuch as surgery would not be performed due to the strike.

I had no idea as to where to turn, nor did I know of any hospital which would admit me, believing that all hospitals were on strike. However, with G-d's help, I was advised to contact Dr Shachor from Laniado Hospital. Fearing that I would again be told "can't do", I nevertheless called him and he agreed to see me the following day at which time, agreed to perform surgery. Much more than that, his ease and reassurance that I would be well cared for at Laniado Hospital, as well as his personal kindness, gave me a feeling of confidence that someone was prepared to help me.

Following major surgery at the hospital, I learned that I had been suffering with multiple hernias, which had already reached a critical, poisonous, and potentially fatal level. Days later, two surgeons explained the gravity of my condition to me and that Dr. Shachor had, indeed, saved my life. The kindness and attention which I received at Laniado Hospital from the attending nurses, doctors on Dr. Shachor's surgical staff, as well as assistants, dieticians, and hospital employees surely promoted my condition and recuperation.

Doctors take the Hippocratic Oath upon entering the Medical Profession, in which they pledge their service to mankind. However, I believe that Dr. Shachor also entered into his own personal oath to G-d, to make available to those who need him, his surgical skills, his vast knowledge, his compassion, his encouragement and his reassurances to heal and to care. Thank you dear Dr. Shachor, for your elegance of character - and thank you for my life!