In times of unimaginable pain and loss, there are individuals who inspire us with their resilience and strength. One such person is Mali Zander, the nursing director at Sheba Hospital in Israel, whose story has touched the hearts of many.

If you’ve seen videos of freed hostages reuniting with their families, you might have noticed a woman in a blue shirt, smiling with excitement and offering quiet support in the background. Most recently, she was seen in the footage of Emily Damari embracing her mother. That woman is Mali Zander, and her presence during these emotional reunions carries a story of profound loss and remarkable courage.

A Life Dedicated to Healing

As the nursing director at Sheba Hospital, Mali is tasked with an extraordinary responsibility: accompanying freed hostages during their medical treatment and ensuring they are well cared for before returning to their families. Her calm demeanor and warm presence provide comfort to individuals who have endured unimaginable trauma.

But Mali’s devotion to these hostages goes beyond professional duty—it is deeply personal.

A Mother’s Tragic Loss

On October 7, 2023, during the horrific attacks by Ham@s, Mali’s daughter, Noa Zander, was tragically murdered at the Nova Party. The massacre claimed countless innocent lives, and for Mali, it marked the loss of her beloved daughter. Yet, in the wake of her grief, she chose to channel her energy into helping others.

Her ability to smile and celebrate the return of freed hostages, as if each reunion were her own child coming back to life, is nothing short of extraordinary.

A Symbol of Israeli Resilience

Mali Zander represents the unbreakable spirit of Israel. Her strength is not just in her professional excellence but in her ability to rise above personal tragedy to serve others. She is a living embodiment of Israeli courage, resilience, and compassion.

Each time she appears in the background of a hostage reunion, smiling with genuine joy, she reminds us of the power of humanity in the face of loss. She demonstrates that even in the darkest of times, hope and kindness can shine through.

A Legacy of Hope

Mali’s work not only brings healing to the freed hostages and their families but also serves as a beacon of hope for a nation still grieving. Her dedication to helping others recover and rebuild is a powerful reminder that even in the shadow of tragedy, there is room for compassion and love.

Mali Zander, you are truly inspiring.

Photo credit: Joseph Haddad