The story

Amichai Schindler, a 33-year-old social worker and father of six from Kerem Shalom, used his own body to shield his family from a bomb detonated by Hamas terrorists on their bomb shelter door. This critical incident left him with severe and life-altering injuries, a scene reminiscent of a family tragedy 13 years ago when his brother fell victim to a terror attack.

Why it matters

Amichai’s courage saved his family’s lives but at a grave personal cost. Such acts of bravery and the closely knit community response following the attack reveal the resilience and solidarity faced with ongoing threats surrounding Israeli border communities. His story serves as a testament not only to the perils faced at the borders but also to the indomitable spirit to survive and protect loved ones against all odds.

The backdrop

That fateful day, Amichai encountered the terrorists inside his house and in a split-second decision, positioned himself at the bomb shelter door, blocking their entry. The resulting explosion heavily injured him but his family survived protected within the shelter. His recuperation is ongoing; a testament to the sacrifices made on the personal frontlines shared with terrorists.

Continued sacrifice

Tragically familiar with loss due to terrorism, Schindler is retraumatized as he faces a strenuous journey to recovery. His life and his capacities irrevocably changed but it’s the unwavering resolve to heal and adapt that shapes his daily reality, along with the unenviable echo of past family sorrows intertwining with the present.

The recovery and adaptation

Facing lengthy rehabilitation and adapting to the loss of hand use, Amichai defies initial dismal prognoses. Nurses, family, and a motivated medical team at Sheba Medical Center support his rehabilitation journey. Progress has been made, small victories in the healing process strengthen his resolve.

Beyond recovery

Beyond his personal battle, Schindler’s experience underlines the bitter conflict that exists on Israel’s borders and the human cost it exacts. It’s a personal testament to the harsh realities that border communities face and how personal peace can dismantle amidst broader conflict narratives. Loss of limb contrasts poignantly with the need for harmony in mixed secular-religious living environments.

Looking ahead

While healing continues, the Schindler family intends to restore and return to their Kerem Shalom home, cementing their bond with a community that exemplifies unity amidst adversity. Their tale emerges not only as one man’s trial but also of a community’s resilience and the possibility of cohabitation between diverse identities in defiance of external threats.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.