By Carol Ann Schwartz
At this time of year, we draw from the powerful message of Hanukkah. We are reminded how each small candle’s flame has the power to transform darkness, to bring light where it is needed most.
Last year, it seemed impossible to use the word celebrate, just two months after the most horrific attack in the history of the State of Israel. Today, we still face so much uncertainty in the world and in our beloved Israel, still 100 hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza, still soldiers fighting on the front lines every day, still antisemitism running rampant in America and abroad.Yet somehow, this Hanukkah, it feels like we have finally come to the point where we can look back with pride and hope on all that our hospitals, youth villages, and members and donors have done over these past harrowing months, in hundreds of communities across the United States, in Israel and beyond.
Hadassah has time and again been a point of light that has illuminated our world this year, made possible because of the incredible doctors, nurses, researchers, students, teachers, members, volunteers and donors so committed to Hadasash’s mission. Thank you for being a part of that light.
This Hanukkah, as we head into 2025, I send to each of you my most heartfelt wishes for a new year filled with hope, a year where we see the release of all the remaining hostages, and a year filled with healing for us, for Israel, and for the world. From my family to yours, I wish you all a Chag Hanukkah Sameach.
