Moshe Ezra, a civilian service volunteer serving in United Hatzalah, never imagined that a routine day in service would become one of the most significant moments in his life.
About a month and a half ago, when a call came in about a child who had collapsed at the "Habar" Torah school in Rehovot, he and his friends in the rescue organization, including volunteer Hani Vaknin, rushed to the scene.
Last night, an emotional meeting took place between the rescuers and the survivor, when 11-year-old Yehoshua Petliar, now healthy and smiling, came with his parents to thank those who saved his life.
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
Ezra recreated the dramatic minutes at the meeting: "When we arrived, we saw Yehoshua lying unconscious. We immediately began advanced CPR. In those moments, you don't think about anything, only about saving the life that is before you.".
Ezra added: "Seeing Yehoshua standing on his feet, smiling and talking - it's a feeling that can't be described in words. This is exactly what motivates me in civilian service - the ability to save lives and make a real difference.".
Yehoshua's parents did not hide their excitement: "There are no words that can describe our gratitude. Thanks to the quick and professional action of the volunteers, and especially Moshe, our son is with us today.".
Israel Peretz, head of the United Hatzalah branch in Rehovot, notes that civil service volunteers have become an integral part of the city's rescue system. "The dedication and professionalism demonstrated by civil service volunteers like Moshe are deeply appreciated. They prove time and again that the value of saving lives is above all else.".
The exciting meeting was initiated by Meir Zander, who is responsible for rescuer-survivor meetings at Ihud Hatzalah, together with the Petliar family.
""Such meetings illustrate the enormous importance of civil service volunteers in the rescue system," says Peretz. "They not only save lives, but also create a deep connection with the community.".
