LA JOLLA, California (SDJW Staff Report) — During a dedication ceremony earlier this year at Congregation Adat Yeshurun, a La Jolla Jewish family and their friends donated an ambulance to Israel’s Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency response organization. The donors, Mike, Karen Aron, and family, made the gift tribute to his late father, Yitzchak Ben Zuzman-HaKohein.
At the May ceremony, Mike’s sister expressed a hope that MDA ambulances like the one donated would only need to transport mothers and newborns to hospitals after safe home births. This heartfelt vision came full circle for the Aron family in September.
The somber reality in Israel often involves MDA ambulances speeding to respond to diverse emergencies, including those resulting from terrorism. But as if destiny had woven its narrative, this past September the words spoken at the La Jolla ceremony manifested into reality, directly impacting the Aron family. When Mike and Karen Aron’s daughter-in-law unexpectedly gave birth at home in Jerusalem, it was an MDA ambulance that came to their aid, safely ferrying the mother and her newborn son to the hospital.
The following week, in a touching gesture of continuity, MDA representatives who had attended the May dedication ceremony, including Felix Lotan (head of disaster response at MDA), came to the baby’s brit milah ceremony.
During his remarks at the dedication, Mike Aron said, “With the diligence of Magen David Adom’s professionals, this ambulance symbolizes optimism and epitomizes the enduring bond linking our families, communities, and the heart of Israel. We take immense pride in partnering with Magen David Adom. This ambulance, we believe, will touch and save many lives.”
He added, “Let it stand as a perpetual tribute to my parents, and evidence of the profound impact their lives continue to wield. Let it symbolize hope and healing for Israel, and remind us of the good that comes from individuals working together for a brighter future.”
The prompt arrival of an MDA ambulance to transport his daughter-in-law and newborn grandson showed that the Aron Family’s vision is becoming a reality. His family’s joyful full circle moment embodied the spirit of health and community.
For more information about MDA, contact Elana Michael, Director of Major Gifts, Southwest Region, at 619-489-0329 or emichael@afmda.org.