What Happened
On an early October morning, Neta Portal’s life changed forever during the Hamas massacre in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Encountering an attack that would leave her severely injured and facing the challenge of a daunting recovery, the innovative minds at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology stepped in, changing the course of her rehabilitation and offering a new lease on life.
Why It Matters
The chilling reality of violence has touched the lives of many in Israel, leaving scars both visible and invisible. Yet, in the aftermath of terror, stories like Neta’s shine a light on resilience, innovation, and the unyielding human spirit. The development of this new orthotic device not only signifies a monumental success in medical technology but illustrates Israel’s commitment to improving the quality of life for its people. It’s a tale of hope amid tragedy, underscoring the nation’s dedication to healing and progress.
The Technological Breakthrough
Engineered by the experts within the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Technion, a first-of-its-kind orthotic device was developed aiming to enable Neta to walk again, despite the severe damage to her ankle. Dr. Dana Solav, alongside Dr. Amir Haim from the Loewenstein Rehabilitation Medical Center, led a collaborative effort, bringing together bright minds and compassionate hearts. Utilizing cutting-edge 3D scanning and printing technologies, the team created a personalized device that acts as a bridge between the soft tissues and the bone, effectively mimicking the natural motion of walking without imposing weight on her injured leg.
The Personal Journey of Neta Portal
From the darkest moments of being attacked in her own home, sustaining seven bullet wounds, to the triumphant steps taken thanks to the Technion’s innovation, Neta’s journey is one of extraordinary courage. Faced with the possibility of never walking unassisted again, she remained hopeful, supported by a team relentlessly working to restore her mobility. With each step taken using the specially designed orthotic device, Neta walks towards a future not just defined by survival, but by strength and determination.
Looking Forward
As Neta Portal makes progress in her rehabilitation, the success of this orthotic device sparks promise not only for her but potentially for others worldwide facing similar challenges. The collaboration between the Technion and medical professionals highlights the crucial nexus between academia and healthcare, pushing forward the boundaries of what’s possible in medical rehabilitation. It’s a beacon of innovation originating from Israel, mirroring the country’s resilience and its achievements in technology and healing sciences. Neta’s story is not just about personal triumph; it’s about national pride, showcasing Israel as a leader in overcoming adversity, no matter the form it takes.
In Their Own Words
“Thanks to them, I went back to walking on my feet,” Neta gratefully acknowledges the efforts of the Technion team and the medical professionals involved in her recovery. Dr. Haim expresses hope for the device’s future impact: “It enables measured pressure on the ankle, which is something very revolutionary.”
Final Thoughts
The narrative of Neta Portal, interwoven with Technion’s pioneering orthotic device, is more than a story of individual survival. It represents Israel’s enduring spirit, its innovation-driven culture, and its unwavering resolve to look after its citizens. From despair to hope, wreckage to recovery, it’s a testament to what can be achieved when compassion meets innovation.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.