Ina Zuckerbrot Bloom

I just returned from what I can honestly say was the most life-changing trip of my life.
I traveled to Israel on an FIDF mission @friends_of_the_fidf and spent a few extra days exploring this incredible country with Jordyn.
During our time there, we met with IDF soldiers, visited military bases, and had the privilege of meeting former hostages Emily Damari and Gali Berman, who were taken from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. We visited the site of the Nova Festival, went into an underground tunnel, met the remarkable Shelly Shem Tov, mother of Omer Shem Tov, who was held hostage for 505 days, and visited the facility where the IDF trains emotional support dogs for soldiers. And that was just a small part of everything we experienced.
Having never been to Israel before, I arrived with so much to learn and see. I left with a perspective that I know will stay with me forever.
There is something incredibly powerful about hearing these stories firsthand, looking into the eyes of the people who have lived through unimaginable experiences, and meeting the young men and women who put their lives on the line every single day to protect their country. Their courage, resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment are truly humbling.
I came home with a much deeper understanding of what Israel means to its people and why the work of the IDF is so important. I also came away understanding that supporting Israel means supporting the soldiers who dedicate themselves to protecting it. It is our responsibility to stand behind them, to care for them, and to make sure they know they are never alone.
This trip opened my eyes, touched my heart, and changed me in ways I am still processing. I am incredibly grateful to FIDF for making this experience possible. And experiencing it alongside my daughter Jordyn, my sister Tanya, and my niece Olivia made it that much more special. To share something so meaningful and life-changing with the people I love most is something I will cherish forever.

I may have left Israel, but a piece of my heart will always remain there. ❤️🇮🇱

Am Yisrael Chai. 🇮🇱