issue no.25 | JUNE 2020

COVID-19 EDITION

Heroines on the Front Lines

PREPARING THE SAMMY OFER FORTIFIED UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY HOSPITAL

INNOVATIVE COVID-19 TECHNOLOGIES

HONORING RAMBAM BY AIR AND BY SEA

COMING TOGETHER FOR A JOINT MISSION COMING TOGETHER FOR A JOINT MISSION Director and CEO: Successful collaboration 18 Dr. Michael Halberthal to fix faulty ventilators JUNE 2020 Issue # 25 State of MEET THE Ministry of Health EXPERTS COMMUNITY Rambam goes digital SUPPORT to connect with 14 Published by the Department global community Showing gratitude of International Relations & for partners and Resource Development 8 friends HEROINES ON THE FRONT LINES Director of the Department of Female staff International Relations & 16 members reflect Resource Development: Dr. Esty Golan on COVID-19 From the experiences GLOBAL Director THANK YOU! Editor-in-chief: Inbar Shahaf Dr. Michael MEDICINE Halberthal talks about Senior Editor 4 COVID-19 and crisis 19 and Production: Shirley Erulkar management

Writer: Liza Farachdel

Special Thanks: PREPARING RAMBAM Abigail Penn, Batya Cohen, Miriam FOR COVID-19 INNOVATIONS Converting Shining a spotlight on Glueck, Oded Mayer, Eyal Shterenbach the Sammy innovative COVID-19 6 Ofer Fortified 10 technologies Photography: Underground Courtesy of Rambam Emergency Hospital Health Care Campus 32 Graphic Design and Concept: Donor Raaya Gilboa Studio spotlight Tel: +972-50-3211363 Meri Barer email: [email protected] www.rgdesign.co.il

Letters to the Editor: HONORING [email protected] RAMBAM BY AIR Special AND BY SEA Rambam Events Air Force and sailing International A CONVERSATION 23 club salute Rambam Relations WITH ARIYE for COVID-19 work Snapshots 34 ISSUE NO.25 | JUNE 2020 BERCOVIZ 26 Rambam's Deputy COVID-19 20 Director EDITION HEROINES ON THE FRONT LINES

PREPARING THE SAMMY OFER FORTIFIED UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY HOSPITAL

INNOVATIVE COVID-19 TECHNOLOGIES

HONORING RAMBAM BY AIR AND BY SEA

COMING TOGETHER FOR A JOINT UNDER 2019 in All written and/or published content in Rambam on Call magazine is for general MISSION INVESTIGATION numbers information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for Two physician/ professional medical advice, diagnosis and/or treatment or an endorsement Cover Photo: Rambam staff scientists share for any medical or pharmaceutical product. All advice, diagnosis and treatment member preparing to treat should be given in person by a physician and under his/her supervision. 22 their research 24 COVID-19 patients.

2 June 2020 June 2020 3 5

nd . We We . seco mplex r a r h wit utine re care ssible fo me time, time, same the t re co re ro h tc virus. is mo is a wa n ur new ur rk o ro e best p o best the o ur wo ur ile a while tients, keeping y a e co the viding of ur p ur antl 2020 ve ve D-19, o VID-19, r o r June June wa re pro are CO fo vigil Throughout everything, I have always felt that there are are there that felt always have I everything, Throughout working all are we and side my by people phenomenal at Rambam and our friends – our teams here together be to privileged feel I world. the supporters and around embodies that one parta community, unique a of such so and professionalism, coexistence, compassion, much more. Sincerely, Michael Halberthal Dr. and CEO Director Campus Care Rambam Health Despite these challenges, we never stopped developing developing stopped never we challenges, these Despite fruition. to our plans bring to working and campus the for milestone major a celebrated we In January, completion marking Tower, Discovery Health Helmsley of the 20-story skeletal building structure by brightly Eyal on the working are We building. the illuminating Heart Ofer publish tenders to Hospital, preparing also We infrastructure. internal for constructing the their family; Tannous with the agreement an signed donation in resulted firstthe Heart three Hospital’s Heart Institute. Tannous Badia the named being floors In addition, the Department Medicine of Emergency Department as the Green-Wagner has been renamed of Medicine, honoring the generosity of Emergency Green, David and supportersWagner longtime Daphne of Rambam. of Canadian Friends President Ministry the from marks top received we news, other In of Health for our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the Department, Emergency Cheryl Pediatric Spencer and In prevention. infection addition, our physicians the at recognized be to continue researchers and and innovations. for their research level international t pt ada we As n this issue, we share with you the logistical challenge logistical the challenge with you n this issue, we share the to prepare Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground We confronted our second major crisis in February, with crisis in February, major our second confronted We that the medication expired revelation was allegedly dispensed by the pharmacy in This 2016. crisis was the most challenging, breaching one of Rambam’s trust and confidence of our patients and The staff. don’t still we while and investigation, under is process taken have we happened, what of extent full the know – both relationships repair to worked and responsibility among the staff and between the staff and patients. While from the still pharmaceutical recovering crisis, Ministry and Israel’s our shores, reached COVID-19 designated prepare we that requested of Health COVID-19 Departments. Everyone rallied together were which facilities, of the readiness the ensure to volunteered who others and nurses, doctors, by staffed do so. One unfortunateto has been the side-effect the including world, the around events of cancellation the what say can one no While Summit. Rambam 2020 welcoming to forward look much very we holds, future the 2021 Summit. to you It is my pleasure to share this issue of Rambam On Call. It is not the issue we planned. Our original idea Our original the issue we planned. On Call. It is not of Rambam this issue share to It is my pleasure the Nurse and the of Year International the marking staff, our nursing to magazine the dedicate was to focusandwill COVID-19, asweface newreality Rambam’s addressing weare events, world Given Midwife. issue. next in the nurses the on We patients. for COVID-19 Hospital Emergency express gratitude for support shown by devoted partners and friends the including time, this during Trust, Charitable Harry and M. Leona Helmsley B. de the Edmond Foundation, Arison Family Ted the and Marilyn Eyal Intel, the Rothschild Foundation, tell We others. many and Foundation, Family Ofer the with about came that collaborations about you various companies, and military, institutions like the and the Technology Institute of – Israel Technion University of due to issues while encountered battling resulting COVID-19, in a burst of innovations method, pooling a using testing as such in areas care. patient and protection, staff tracking, outbreak connect with the talk about using social media to We public through webinars, videos, training and online And fundraisers. of course, we also highlight several of the amazing women on our staff. During the past six months, we spent time and effort on crisis management. In November 2019, a pipe ruptured in the sprinkler system on the floor seventh resulting in 150,000 liters of the Tower, Sammy Ofer of water cascading down to lower floors within 40 see the staff quickly rush minutes. It was inspiring to its normal state the hospital to forward and return within hours. Dear Friends, Dear I

From the Director l l thal r the ichae albe 2020 From Director M Dr. H June June 4 Preparations and Logistical everyone into personal protective equipment (PPE) WHEN THE DANGER COMES at the same time as well as out of it. As such, a plan Considerations was formulated that explains how and where people The plan called for the hospital to be located on the -3 enter and exit, and how shifts change,” says Moskovitz, FROM WITHIN – CONVERTING level – a level with its own separate air conditioning adding, “every two-and-a-half hours, the shift has to and filtering systems. Prior to beginning the actual change, because it’s impossible to be in the PPE for conversion, Rambam’s administration and the longer.” THE SAMMY OFER FORTIFIED Operations Department had to understand the logistics of taking an underground facility designed for use Another aspect of preparation involved staff training. as a clean area protected from the dangers outside To that end, a simulated coronavirus department was UNDERGROUND EMERGENCY and repurposing it to do the opposite – protect the created to help prepare nurses and doctors to work area outside from the contamination within, ensuring in this type of environment. In addition, in the event smoothly-run operations that would also keep the staff that there will be many patients requiring ventilators, HOSPITAL INTO A COVID-19 safe and healthy. Rambam employees who studied medical technology were trained in ventilator operation. During the design stage, the team considered issues TREATMENT FACILITY like separation between clean and contaminated areas, Working Underground removal of contaminated air, camera placement, and A process for receiving patients was also established, more. Relying on hundreds of employees, including Under normal circumstances, the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency Hospital is used as a beginning at a designated triage site located just soldiers from the ’ Home Front outside the perimeter of Rambam. Decisions will be three-level parking garage. As COVID-19 reached Israel, the Ministry of Health requested plans for its Command, an infrastructure was created to support taken at the triage site as to whether ambulances will conversion into a 900-bed coronavirus facility, including 300 beds for patients requiring ventilators. all anticipated medical, electrical, and communications either be directed to the Green-Wagner Department needs. The plan presented a series of challenges. “We built the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency of Emergency Medicine, or, if COVID-19 is suspected, Hospital for times of war, and as such, it was designed to provide shelter against missiles and chemical A great deal of equipment and supplies also needed to to the -1 level in the underground hospital where tests be purchased. The facility was built on the premise that will be performed. Patients requiring hospitalization warfare – not viruses,” explains Kobi Moskovitz, Director of Operations for Emergency Situations at when Rambam found itself facing the threat of war, all will be transferred to -3. Rambam Health Care Campus, who has overseen the preparations for converting the facility into patients in the above-ground, non-fortified departments a dedicated hospital for treating COVID-19 patients. would move to the safety of the Sammy Ofer Fortified A dedicated command center is being built in Underground Emergency Hospital, along with all of the Rambam’s staff dining room, allowing staff outside equipment. “In essence, we are now creating a second of the facility to monitor patients and communicate hospital – not simply moving Rambam underground. with the staff in the underground hospital. And, given This required the purchase of more beds, ventilators, that patients’ families are not allowed to enter, an monitors, carts, refrigerators for medications, and information center is being set up to enable them to other materials,” notes Moskovitz. communicate with their loved ones. The preparations also required the logistics team to “When it comes to emergencies, you prepare for establish procedures that would ensure the smooth scenarios with which you are already familiar. This operation of the facility. “It’s logistically impossible for is something that’s never happened. We’ve had this everyone to enter or exit at the same time, as there time to lay the groundwork and learn what needs to aren’t enough elevators. It’s also impossible to get be done,” summarized Moskovitz.

6 June 2020 June 2020 7 Showing Gratitude

W hile facing numerous The Family Foundation Edmond de Rothschild Foundation The Leona M. and Harry B. challenges in its battle against Helmsley Charitable Trust The Eyal and Marilyn Ofer Family Foundation Israel's State Lottery COVID-19, Rambam Health Intel Ltd. The Committee for Allocation of Funds Care Campus has been—and Adjudicated in Class Actions Leno and Paul Sislin ISCAR Azrieli Foundation Israel The International continues to be—humbled by Fellowship of and Professor the support and love Simona and Professor Shlomo Ben Chaim Anat and Udi Angel - XT Group Bruce and Ruth Rappaport it has received Foundation Gav Yam Yehuda Mendelson from partners Aloniel Plus500 Ronit and Haim Sadger Yael and Gal Haber Smolokowski Family Mellanox and friends Technologies Ltd Ofer Malls The Aaron in Israel and Gutwirth Fund (Cc) BAZAN Group Abby Joseph Cohen around the world. The Erna F. Viterbi z"l Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Community Thanks to the generosity of its Foundation Dorit and Avi supporters, Rambam has been Abekasis Leon & Zipporah able to purchase much needed Goldstein Foundation Hanoch supplies, enabling treatment Dovrath Michal and Ronen Givon with state-of-the-art equipment Staff of Rafael Talia and Gad Zeevi that gives patients the best Wintego Systems Yaron Michelson possible chances for recovery. Bank Discount Bank Israel-based companies donated Leumi Effi and Eli Goldhar Ella medical supplies such as personal Waldman Malka and Sammy protective equipment, hand sanitizer, Niego Electric Company and more, as local restaurants donated Workers Union Maccabi Haifa meals to our medical teams for the Tawfiq Darawshe Ltd duration of the pandemic. And many more generous donors THANK YOU! who stood by us during the pandemic...

8 June 2020 June 2020 9

CONTROL AND COVID-19 TESTING MONITORING SYSTEMS Rising to the Challenge Defining the Challenge: Challenge: Challenge: Paradigm Remote monitoring and maintaining contact with Collecting monitoring data from equipment in the Increased testing to identify COVID-19 carriers. patients and staff. Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency Solution: Solution: Hospital and transmitting it to the above-ground for COVID-19 command center. A team of researchers from Rambam and the In the event that Rambam is required to activate Technion successfully tested a pooling methodology the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency Solution: that enables faster COVID-19 testing by examining a Innovation Hospital to treat COVID-19 patients, remote staff Rstream was designed by RAFAEL, an Israeli military pool of up to 64 RNA samples in one test tube. If the monitoring and control of the facility will be critical. industry leader. It is an active online imaging and data pool shows the presence of COVID-19, each sample Working together, Elbit and Rambam developed the system that collects patient data from monitors, vents, is tested individually. This method can be used when EX-TEAMS system for use in the medical field, allowing and infusion pumps. Images are captured using a there is a need to quickly test significant numbers of Before Rambam Health Care Campus received people in the above-ground command center to locate mobile device, processed, and then transmitted to a people. each staff member in the underground hospital. The secure cloud for retrieval. its first coronavirus patient, it faced a growing system, which has management and organizational number of unprecedented COVID-19-related capabilities, also allows for communication between challenges. “There are several principles that staff members. The Ministry of Health will deploy the guide us,” explains Dr. Netanel Horowitz, Director system at all public hospitals. of the Ambulatory Care Unit in the Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Institute, who was asked by Rambam General Director Dr. Michael Halberthal to coordinate COVID-19 solutions. “We must limit exposure to the virus, and when staff do enter the patient area, they must be well- protected with gear that is comfortable and easy to use. Maintaining efficiency and the ability to CoView System perform tasks quickly is also important.” Challenge: Rambam’s physicians and researchers began to Collecting and controlling operational data. develop solutions as the hospital cooperated Solution: with companies, academic institutions, and the The CoView System was designed by elite military military to solve issues that medical teams were units and adapted for use in hospitals. It displays personnel data and patient status, and tracks critical discovering. The results of these efforts have equipment, adding these details to existing hospital produced an array of innovative products and systems. This system can also connect to other technologies. hospitals.

10 June 2020 June 2020 11 PATIENT MONITORING Personal Protective IDENTIFYING OUTBREAKS ROBOTICS SYSTEMS Equipment (PPE) Challenge: Challenge: Challenge: Ensuring staff treating COVID-19 patients are properly Tracking COVID-19 outbreaks. Minimizing the need for medical teams to enter the protected against the virus. Solution: COVID-19 department. Challenge: A research team from Rambam, the Faculty of Solution #1: Collecting vital signs while minimizing staff exposure Solution #1: Electrical Engineering at the Technion, the Israel A robot equipped with a camera and communication to COVID-19. An elite military unit provided Defense Forces Medical Corps, and the Rappaport technology was given to Rambam by Ohalo College. protective suits that are ventilated Faculty of Medicine at the Technion developed a Once inside the department, the robot approaches Solution: using a medical gas pipeline map that performs real-time analysis of COVID-19 patients individually, allowing them to face the robot’s Biobeat uses wireless stickers to enable monitoring of system. These suits are exclusive propagation characteristics, transmitting up-to-date camera as they communicate with the staff in the patient metrics like breathing, pulse, body temperature, to Rambam. information regarding outbreak risk levels based on command center. This robot is still in development. and more. The system continuously transmits geographic location. The platform uses heatmaps, Solution #2: information to control monitors, allowing patients to displaying cases using circles of different sizes and be monitored without physical contact. Rambam is the Solution #2: colors. The initiative is led by Dr. Oren Caspi, head of High school students from Haifa’s Reali School built the Advanced Heart Failure Program in Rambam’s a robot in collaboration with the Technion that can first hospital to use this Israeli startup’s technology. In conjunction with the military, Department of Cardiology and head of the Technion’s carry up to 30 kilograms. The robot is controlled via a new head and neck cover was Laboratory for Cardiovascular Precision Medicine, a joystick, and can be directed to collect and drop off created and tested at Rambam. Cordio Medical together with his brother, Gil Caspi, from the Technion’s items. This robot is being tested, and is exclusive to Challenge: Faculty of Electrical Engineering, and Dr. Avi Shina. Rambam. Preventing pneumonia in COVID-19 patients through Solution #3: Solution #3: early recognition of Acute Respiratory Distress In collaboration with the Polygon designed a robot that can enter and exit the Syndrome (ARDS). Technion, a new face shield was department to film patients and transport materials. designed. It attaches to a pump Rambam served as a testing site. Solution: that sends filtered air into the One of the problems faced by many COVID-19 patients mask, creating an “air curtain” is pneumonia, which is preceded by ARDS and presents that prevents inhalation of viruses with fluid in the lungs. Cordio turned to Rambam to and bacteria. When used with an share technology that detects and monitors lung fluid N95 mask, it provides close to changes using voice sample analysis. The patient is 100% protection. recorded while speaking on different days, and each recording is analyzed to find differences indicating a change in the lung fluid amount. This technology is in early testing stages, and Cordio wanted to test it on COVID-19 patients.

Sensible Medical Innovations Ltd. Challenge: Early recognition of Acute Respiratory Distress Patient Isolation Syndrome (ARDS) in COVID-19 patients. Solution: Challenge: TM Dr. Michael Halberthal: Sensible developed the ReDS system, based on Ensuring that patients have clean air. technology designed for the military to find survivors COVID-19 will stay with us for the foreseeable future, behind walls in collapsed buildings. It was adapted to Solution: enable medical teams to see fluid inside the patient’s In collaboration with Carmel Medical Center, Rambam and we will need these solutions indefinitely. As such, lungs. The technology was previously tested in the developed an active respiratory protective system that Department of Cardiology on heart failure patients, is placed around the patient’s head and pumps out these innovations are not only for Rambam, but for everyone. and Sensible wanted to determine if it would work on exhaled air, which is then purified using a special filter. COVID-19 patients. This system is being tested.

12 June 2020 June 2020 13 Meet the Experts: Rambam Goes Digital Live Webinar Events Online Cultural Events Birth in the Times of COVID-19 (Hebrew) Achinoam “Noa” Nini and Gil Dor: Virtual Fundraising Gala for Rambam COVID-19 – The Haifa Angle (Hebrew) to Connect with Idan Reichel: Live Performance Children and COVID-19 (Hebrew) for Israeli Hospitals Yom Ha’atzmaut – Israeli Independence Global Community A Glimpse into the COVID-19 Day with Chaim Topol (AUSFORAM) Department (Hebrew) Knafeh Cooking Session – Especially COVID-19 and Senior Citizens (Hebrew) for Yom Ha’atzmaut (AUSFORAM) he onset of COVID-19 has brought with it a Accordingly, Rambam Health Care Campus—in So What Did You Want to Know Virtual concert with Frédéric Zeitoun, Tflurry of new challenges, among them, the cooperation with its international Friends Associations about COVID-19? (Hebrew) Bruno Bongarçon, Joana Mendil, desire to find alternative ways to connect with one and other organizations—has grown its social media Getting Ready to Give Birth? Michel Fugain, and The Nacash Brothers another due to social distancing and self-quarantine presence, providing virtual activities during the Meet Our Midwives to Ask Questions! (Hebrew) (French Friends of Rambam, in French) regulations. As a result of this new reality, a growing pandemic to fulfill these needs. Using the number of activities have moved into popular Zoom communication platform, Meet the Experts: Rambam on the Front Line the online realm in order to engage Facebook Live, and YouTube, it has held and Fighting COVID-19 (with AFORAM in cooperation the community during these participated in a series of webinars in both with Israel Bonds, in English) complicated times. In parallel, Hebrew and English on a multitude of COVID- Meet the Experts: Creating High Impact Solutions given the unprecedented 19-related topics including technology and to Medical and Humanitarian Challenges in a nature of the current situation, innovation, geriatric care, giving birth, pediatric COVID-19 World (with AFORAM, in English) there is a dearth of knowledge care and more, bringing its top experts to the regarding the virus itself, forefront to share their knowledge and experience Social Distancing in a COVID-19 World: creating a seemingly with a global audience. In addition, Rambam has also The Israel Experience (AUSFORAM, unquenchable thirst for facilitated online musical performances and holiday in English) information. celebrations, and its activities have reached people What can we expect in the future: around the world in countries like Australia, Canada, Is COVID-19 just the beginning? , India, Italy, the United States, and others. (AUSFORAM, in English) From Vulnerabilities to Strengths: How to come out stronger on the other side of this crisis (AUSFORAM, in English) COVID-19 Days: From Parenting to Leadership (AUSFORAM, in Hebrew) Israeli Response to the Coronavirus, with the participation of Professor Rafi Beyar as Rambam’s representative (Kaplan Medical Center, in English) COVID-19 Cutting Edge Technologies and Innovations (with the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, in English) Rambam, Israel, and COVID-19 (Spanish Friends of Rambam, in Spanish) COVID-19: Is this just the beginning? (AUSFORAM, in English)

Online Childbirth Courses (Hebrew)

14 June 2020 June 2020 15 ON THE REFLECTING ON THE HEROINES FRONT LINES COVID-19 experience Gila Hyams, RN, MA Dr. Khetam Hussein Director of Nursing; Director of The Teaching Center for Director of the Infection Control Service; Trauma, Emergency, and Mass Casualty Situations. Director of the Crown COVID-19 Department Gila has spent her entire career treating trauma victims in times of Dr. Khetam Hussein has high praise for the human capital found at peace and war. During the past few months, however, Gila and her Rambam, mentioning the staff’s knowledge, abilities, experience, colleagues at Rambam have been forced to face a new type of battle, and judgment. “Times of crisis and stress give us the opportunity to and her experiences during these turbulent times have reinforced become more attuned to ourselves and to those around us, helping her confidence in the strengths of Rambam’s multidisciplinary staff us to recognize strengths that we never knew existed,” she says. as they work together to save lives. When asked about Rambam’s significant achievements during She is proud to work with the dedicated nurses of the Nursing the pandemic, Dr. Hussein points to the blend of healthcare and Administration and in the hospital. In her capacity as director of the technology, and pays tribute to Rambam's ability to integrate largest employee division in the hospital, Gila knows she can count advanced, innovative technologies, ensuring optimal patient on each and every one of them to ensure the smooth operation of treatment. She is proud of the fact that no employee has been the COVID-19 departments as well as the entire hospital. infected with COVID-19 while working in the hospital When asked what the future holds for Rambam, Gila sees the The past few months have been especially difficult for her, as she hospital returning to its usual routine while remaining prepared spent more time at the hospital than at home. "It is incredibly difficult for any complex health scenarios, for the benefit of the people work and every day is different; our lives have been turned upside of Northern Israel. "Rambam, is robust enough to face whatever down,” she confides, adding, “But what characterizes the staff at happens, together as a united team,” she says with pride. Rambam is the sense of togetherness we feel when treating these patients. All hands are on deck,” she confirms. Sara Tzafrir, BSc, MHA Liat Getz Ben-Izhak, Esq, MBA Director of the Department of Information, Director of the Purchasing Department Computing, and Communications Liat Getz Ben-Izhak believes that the coronavirus threat is no less Sara was not surprised by Rambam’s handling of the pandemic, serious than an actual wartime situation, and shares that she will which reinforced her impressions regarding so many of the hospital’s always remember how the hospital’s amazing staff worked together best characteristics. "No matter what challenges we face, when we around the clock to care for patients, putting their own lives on work together, we are a winning team,” she says with confidence. hold to do so. She believes that Rambam’s most important achievement has been She is grateful for the support of Rambam’s administration, which its preparation for the task of caring for its patients in uncertain has taken extraordinary measures to ensure that patients receive conditions, noting that a key factor was the ability to constantly the best possible treatment, including a willingness to procure evaluate the situation and make adjustments as needed. all necessary medical equipment and critical contracts. She Unlike previous crises, it has been critical to provide patient care notes that her department’s success is due to the commitment with minimal physical contact, relying heavily on computers and of its dedicated staff.The biggest challenge encountered by her communication systems to ensure continuity of day-to-day activities. department is buying medical supplies that are in high demand A new communications infrastructure was deployed within days – a around the world. “Global exports are at a minimum and there is task that usually takes months to complete. a shortage of raw production materials worldwide, plus prices are high,” she explains. Sara’s workdays were longer and more intense. The hardest aspect, though, was having to distance herself from family. Fortunately, she Due to her increased workload, Liat rarely saw her four children was able to celebrate her birthday with them using Zoom, and was during this period, however, she was proud that they understood thrilled to find flowers from her children. the unique situation, and recognized their part in the overall effort. Sara hopes the experience acquired by Rambam and its redesigned “It is a great privilege to be a part of Rambam and the Israeli infrastructure will also serve future needs. healthcare sector, standing at the forefront of this global pandemic."

16 June 2020 June 2020 17 When Friends Come Together for a Joint Mission GLOBAL MEDICINE Rambam Participates in Three Months in Kiboga, Trauma Seminar at US Naval Uganda ISCAR, one of Rambam's Mr. Harpaz spoke with company CFO Mr. Ronen Hospital in Sigonella, Italy Professor Norberto Krivoy, who served as Director of major supporters, provided Zisser, who offered to the Clinical Pharmacology Unit at Rambam Health Care create a production line to Several senior members of Rambam’s medical Campus prior to his retirement, traveled to Kiboga, an innovative solution for the build new machines. When staff visited the United States Naval Hospital in Uganda with his wife Elena for a three-month stint the company realized that it would be unable to do so in Sigonella, Italy, for a three-day joint training workshop as a volunteer doctor in Kiboga General Hospital. hospital’s ventilator shortage a timely manner, they offered to fix the broken ventilators. titled, “Mass Casualty Incident Preparedness and Professor Krivoy heard about the opportunity—which Management”. Rambam General Director Dr. Michael was under the auspices of the Topaz and Brit Olam during the COVID-19 crisis. When Dvir Meiri, ISCAR’s department manager of Halberthal, Director of Nursing Mrs. Gila Hyams, organizations—via the Israeli Medical Association. After Specialized Technologies, examined the machines, At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department Director of Trauma and Emergency Surgery Dr. Hany discussing it with Elena, the two decided to make the however, he determined that it would take too long to of Operations and Maintenance at Rambam Health Care Bahouth, and Director of the Division of Mental Health trip. fix them. Understanding the importance of repairing the Campus discovered that seven of the hospital’s 125 Dr. Eyal Fruchter traveled to the Sicily-based hospital Elena, a clinical psychologist by profession, volunteered ventilators, he came up with an “out-of-the-box” idea – ventilators were faulty. Given the restrictions in place as with Mr. Guy Caspi, Director of HAZ-MAT, Exercises as a medical clown, while Professor Krivoy worked as a approaching the Air Force, where his brother was a senior well as the current global shortage for this critical piece of and Operational Training Department at Magen David physician in the hospital and at various clinics, treating engineer, holding the rank of Colonel. equipment, they were unable to find either a company or Adom in Israel. people for regular ailments as well as diseases like HIV, country that was willing to fix them. “An extraordinary opportunity presented itself in the form They presented sessions throughout the workshop, tuberculosis, and malaria. Between the clinics and the While Mossad agents were carrying out covert missions of a collaboration between Rambam, ISCAR, and Israel’s addressing topics like organizing and operating hospital, Professor Krivoy saw more than 70 patients to purchase ventilators to bring back to Israel and hi-tech Air Force,” notes Dr. Golan. hospitals for mass casualty situations, drills, triage, each week, including both children and adults. companies were trying to create improvised ventilators, The Air Force’s 108 unit, which specializes in the debriefing, damage control, early intervention The 120-bed hospital was built by Israel, Israeli company ISCAR—known internationally for its maintenance and repair of sensitive equipment, took techniques for prevention of PTSD, and more. “We the organization that also provided the Krivoys with manufacturing of carbide cutting tools for the Metalworking charge. Within a few days, they were able to pinpoint the talked about how we organized our hospital in order to logistical assistance and a car during their stay in industry—reached out to Rambam to find out how it could problem and fix the ventilators. In the end, the unit was cope with extreme scenarios,” explained Dr. Halberthal. Kiboga. help the hospital in its battle against COVID-19, in addition able to fix six out of the seven devices. to providing a significant donation. The company has been Sigonella’s strategic location in the center of the “It was a very special, amazing experience. The locals one of Rambam’s staunchest supporters for years. The staff from the Department of Operations and Mediterranean Sea means that the hospital needs welcomed us warmly and we met wonderful people,” Maintenance could not believe their eyes. Against all to be ready to respond to any emergency. Following recalls Professor Krivoy, adding that once, he was Recalls Dr. Esty Golan, Rambam’s Managing Director of asked if he would ever return to Kiboga. “I answered odds, six precious ventilators—which are critical for the workshop with Rambam, caregivers at the naval International Relations and Chief of Strategic Development, hospital implemented what they learned during a mass that if I was healthy and able to make the trip, I would the treatment of COVID-19 patients and had previously “When Jacob Harpaz, IMC Group (ISCAR) President and casualty drill at the facility. definitely come back.” Chairman of the Board and 2019 Rambam Award winner, been tagged as defective—were all restored to perfect offered his assistance, I told him about the faulty ventilators.” working condition.

Delegation members at the US Naval Hospital in Sigonella, Professor Norberto Krivoy speaks with staff and patients Italy. (L-R): Dr. Michael Halberthal, Mrs. Gila Hyams, Dr. Hany at Kiboga General Hospital in Kiboga, Uganda. Bahouth, Mr. Guy Caspi, Dr. Eyal Fruchter.

18 June 2020 June 2020 19 A Conversation with Vision and Strength Ariye strongly identifies with Rambam’s vision. “The Ariye is a firm believer in the importance of human vision created nearly 20 years ago by a team that resources. “As we continue our work through the included the hospital administration and Mr. Eitan COVID-19 pandemic, it has reinforced my conviction Ariye Berkoviz Wertheimer makes me happy. It continues to lead us that people are Rambam’s greatest strength – our to excellence and inspires me to invest in an institution staff as well as supporters. We must do our utmost r. Ariye Berkoviz, Deputy Director of Rambam Upholding Standards that I love,” declares Ariye. to preserve this asset.” MHealth Care Campus and Director of the One of the goals that Rambam set for itself was to be Department of Engineering, Construction and one of the best hospitals in the and in the Development, loves his job. As a construction engineer, world. Using this as his guide, Ariye studied all of the his tasks revolve around coordinating Rambam’s most advanced hospital standards in the world, and engineering and infrastructure projects, including the does what he can to bring them to fruition at Rambam. planning and development of the Western Campus and engineering upgrades in existing buildings. Ariye “It is very satisfying to know that your work contributes to advancing standards that positively impact patients directly manages a team of 30, and is also responsible and staff, and creates a healing environment. For for 100-150 contract workers. “My work is based instance, research has shown that sea views improve on teamwork. All of our team members are very efficiency and finances and also prevent infection, by professional; they come to work each morning with shortening hospitalization times and speeding up sparks in their eyes,” he shares. patient recovery. We took advantage of our strategic Prior to joining Rambam in 2001, Ariye served in the location to create more patient rooms overlooking the Israel Defense Forces for 28 years, retiring with the sea,” he discloses. rank of colonel. Following his release, he received Another example involves the team’s flagship project a number of job offers. “I was drawn to Rambam – Helmsley Health Discovery Tower. “We ensure that following meetings with Professor Moshe Revach and this facility maintains the most advanced international Dr. Esty Golan – at the time, Rambam’s Director, and standards. We believe that within two to three years, Administrative Director. They presented the hospital’s our researchers will be using its laboratories to make vision to me. When I saw the potential, it triggered my breakthroughs on a global level. These are the kinds of desire to work here; it felt like the natural next step in things that provide inspiration and motivation.” my career,” recalls Ariye. Rising to the Challenge A Multitude of Projects In recent years, the most challenging aspects of At any given time, Ariye and his team are working on Ariye’s job have been connected to severe budgetary approximately 40 different projects simultaneously. constraints. The gravest impact is felt in areas like Construction of the Western Campus is ongoing, while Rambam’s Eastern Campus, which is showing its the engineering team is responsible for refurbishment age and requires tremendous resources to maintain on the Eastern Campus. All oversight is done in-house. its infrastructure. “We have to set priorities with the administration to ensure that the hospital remains fully Ariye has left his mark all over Rambam. This is Ariye Berkoviz It is very satisfying to know that operational,” reveals Ariye. especially true on the Western Campus, where he Married + 3. has played an instrumental role in the conception, He also points out that many projects still await funding. Two grandchildren. your work contributes to advancing design, and construction of Helmsley Health Discovery “I am worried about how the COVID-19 pandemic Lives in Nof Hagalil/Upper . standards that positively impact Tower – which is changing Haifa’s skyline, the Eyal will affect the economy in general and Rambam in Ofer Heart Hospital, the Joseph Fishman Oncology particular. I hope the economy will recover, and that patients and staff, and creates Center, and Ruth Rappaport Children’s Hospital, as well we—Rambam as well as our supporters— will be as the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency able to get through this as quickly and as strongly as a healing environment. Hospital – the largest facility of its kind in the world. possible.”

20 June 2020 June 2020 21 UNDER INVESTIGATION Honoring Rambam two Rambam Scientists Share Their Research by Air and by Sea Israel’s Air Force and the Carmel Sailing Club took to the skies and the sea, respectively, to pay tribute to the medical teams at Rambam, recognizing them for their hard work during the hospital’s battle against COVID-19.

On Israel’s Independence Day, the Air Force’s aerobatics and day for the health of our citizens”, and wishing team carried out a flyby over Rambam as part of a everyone a Happy Independence Day. series of similar performances for hospitals throughout the country. With excited Rambam employees, patients, Several days later, the Carmel Sailing Club saluted and visitors cheering from the grounds far below, four the hospital from a flotilla of boats along Rambam’s Air Force jets performed a sequence of maneuvers shores, in recognition of its work on the front lines of across a clear blue sky. the pandemic. The flotilla was comprised of members of the Carmel Sailing Club, an association for the Heartfelt messages from Air Force Commander Major General Amikam Norkin and the fighter pilots promotion and cultivation of sailing in the north. The themselves were shared with event was chaired by Brigadier General Shlomo Momo the medical teams, thanking Cohen and retired Brigadier General Shabtai Levi, who them for “working night is 88 years old. More than 120 vessels participated. Dr. Danny Eytan Dr. Yuri Gorelik Dr. Danny Eytan is an attending physician Dr. Yuri Gorelik is a resident in the Department of Internal Medicine D and a researcher in the in the Wagner-Green Pediatric Intensive Laboratory of Professor Mogher Khamaisi. Care Unit, and an Assistant Professor in the His research focuses on Big Data Analytics - "We are thankful to those who work constantly Technion, Faculty of Medicine. analyzing huge amounts of data from different so that we can be healthy. We wanted to express our sources and formats, enabling real-time solidarity with your efforts and sacrifice, and hope that the people Using Artificial Intelligence to Help decision-making. of Israel will be stronger and more united, thanks to you,” said the flotilla’s organizers, adding that, “as sailors, one of our traditions is to say that ‘we will Critically Ill Children. Investigating Changes in Hospitalized continue to see Rambam from the sea and not the sea from Rambam.’" Accurate knowledge of a patient’s disease state and Patient Renal Function trajectory is of utmost importance. Dr. Eytan focuses on Using advanced prediction models and methods for combining tools from diverse fields, such as machine comparing large patient groups, Dr. Gorelik researches learning and nonlinear dynamical systems, to create the effects of nephrotoxins (toxic agents or substances better physiological models and improve prediction that inhibit, damage or destroy kidneys, cells, and of disease and response to treatment. By using the tissues) on patients in clinical settings. patient’s “physiome” (the totality of physiological measurements) and clinical attributes, his goal is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Study to implement a personalized medicine approach for A joint project among Israeli hospitals, Dr. Gorelik critically ill children whose clinical state evolves minute searched for clinical factors that influence or predict by minute. the response of chronic IBD patients to biological Dr. Eytan obtained his MD and PhD in neuroscience treatments. and biophysics from the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology (where he is currently an assistant Coronavirus Ramifications professor). He continued his research training as a This project deals with consequences of the pandemic, postdoctoral fellow studying dynamics and adaptation hospital preparation, and the impact of lockdown processes in the network of cortical neurons. After instructions. It focuses on morbidity and mortality completing his residency in pediatrics at Rambam, he of non-coronavirus patients and differences when pursued a clinical and research fellowship in pediatric compared to normal times, evaluating successes and critical care at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. failures to protect them in future waves.

22 June 2020 June 2020 23 in nu 2019 STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES PATIENT CARE (in millions of shekels) mb ers INCOME: 2018 2019* Year 2018 2019 MEDICAL SERVICES RENDERED 1,620 1,667 ANNUAL ADMISSIONS 84,525 83,639 RESEARCH PROJECTS 48 56 TOTAL PATIENT DAYS 353,608 352,436 OTHER 22 25 EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT VISITS 140,630 144,447 TOTAL 1,690 1,748 OUTPATIENT VISITS 729,578 741,012 ALLOCATIONS: TOTAL PATIENTS TREATED 251,969 256,304 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION 19 11 IMAGING PROCEDURES 277,445 287,487 MEDICAL EQUIPMENT 14 5 LABORATORY EXAMS 13,203,005 13,436,204 COMPUTERIZED EQUIPMENT 4 3 SURGICAL PROCEDURES 59,629 58,536 EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES 5 2 DELIVERIES 4,931 4,698 TOTAL 42 21 AVERAGE OCCUPANCY 96% 94% Expenses: SALARIES 1,166 1,205 MEDICAL AND TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT 260 278 MAINTENANCE 107 143 OPERATING EXPENSES 206 220 GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 99 82 TOTAL 1,838 1,928 7% *Recalculated 11-20 YRS 55% HOSPITALIZATIONS 16% 21-70 YRS 0-10 YRS DONORS from DONATIONS BY AGE 16 COUNTRIES 83,639 22% Total Number of Donors $19 Million 70+ YRS 855 Total Amount Raised

New Donors $15,385 485 2012-2019 Average Donation Amount

EMPLOYEES RESEARCH OVERALL CAPACITY 5,345 EMPLOYEES 996 HOSPITAL BEDS 1,199 PHYSICIANS 556 NEW RESEARCH 39 MEDICAL INSTITUTES 1,739 NURSES 1,932 ACTIVE RESEARCH 65 INPATIENT WARDS 1,086 ALLIED HEALTH 75 SPECIALIZATION UNITS 1,321 HOUSEHOLD & ADMINISTRATION 114 OUTPATIENT CLINICS

24 June 2020 June 2020 25 S n De c e mb er 2019 ceremony honoring the memory of Hedda Engel was held at Rambam. Hedda’s relative Dr. Danny rambaM ap s h ots A Beck, a doctor at Rambam prior to his retirement, gave a presentation about Hedda. Speakers included Dr. Michael Halberthal, Dr. Esty Golan, Professor INTERNATIONAL Myriam Ben-Arush, and Alon Ezra, the Director of Beit Ildan. Guests included Professor Itai Shavit, Director of the Cheryl Spencer RELATIONS Pediatric Emergency Department, Ravit Idelman, the department’s Head Nurse, and the International Relations and

- Ceremony Attendees Resource Development Department may staff. 2020

USFORAM, together with Classic ACinema, in Melbourne, invited 70 members and friends to the film premiere of “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood”. Victor Perton, author of "Optimism: The How and Why", spoke about Maimonides’ optimistic approach to patients. L-R Emily and Al Goldgram L-R Victor Perton and Giora Hoffmann

mily and Al Goldgram visited Rambam during a trip to Israel for their granddaughter’s bat mitzvah. Dr. Esty Golan, Managing Director of International Relations and Chief of Strategic Development, E recognition ceremony was held in memory of provided an overview of Rambam. Accompanied by Dr. Golan, Sigal Amsalem, and Abigail Penn from the Moshe Renner in Joseph Fishman Oncology Center. International Relations and Resource Development Department, the couple, who donated to the Sammy A Speakers included Professor Irit Ben-Aharon, Director Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency Hospital, toured the West Campus and saw their recognition plaque. of the Oncology Division; Dr. Esty Golan; Inbar Shahaf, Head of Market Development and Donor Relations; and onna and Michael Gordon of Boca Revital Renner, Moshe’s daughter. The Renner family D Raton, Florida, spent time visiting was presented with a certificate and unveiled the plaque Rambam in December 2019. During the in memory of their father. course of their visit, Dr. Esty Golan and Sigal Amsalem presented them with a certificate of recognition, honoring them The Renner family for their contribution to the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency oard member Rachel Jonas Hospital. Bhosted a parlor event at the home Donna and Michael Gordon, with Dr. Ovad Cohen, of her parents, Debbie and Howard Sigal Amsalem and Dr. Esty Golan Jonas, for their friends and family. Dr. Michael Halberthal, General Director of Rambam, introduced the ustralian Friends of Rambam hospital and spoke of its history and A (AUSFORAM) held a cooking master recent development. Professor Rafi class together with the Jewish Lamm Beyar, Director Emeritus, spoke of the innovations and Library in Melbourne. Thanks to Eitam research coming out of Rambam. Judging by the many Barami, a well-known chef in Melbourne questions, the well-attended evening was met with an who was born at Rambam, attendees enthusiastic response. learned how to make healthier Latkes just in time for Hanukkah! L-R Howard Jonas, Rachel Jonas, Debbie Jonas, Dr. Michael Halberthal, Ellen Pomerantz, Professor Rafi Beyar

Chef Eitan Barami during the lesson

26 June 2020 June 2020 27 recognition ceremony was held in Ruth Rappaport rs. Avi and Raluca Dinu A Children’s Hospital to honor the "Lehosheet Yad" D Katz, and Professor (Lending a Hand) Association. Dr. Michael Halberthal, Horia and Dr. Simona Stanca General Director of Rambam; Professor Myriam visited Rambam, and were Ben-Arush, Director of the Pediatric Hematology- given an overview by Dr. Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Division Michael Halberthal and Dr. and Director of the Pediatric Division; and Lehosheet Esty Golan. They learned Yad founder Avraham Attar, as well as about the Stanford Rambam the association's volunteers, took the BioDesign Program and opportunity to celebrate the recovery Rambam’s ophthalmology program, meeting with Dr. of the department's cancer patients. Yona Vaisbuch, Senior Physician, ENT Department; Professor Eytan Blumenthal, Director, Department of Ophthalmology; Professor Imad Kasis, Director, Pediatric Department B, Ruth Rappaport Children's L-R Professor Myriam Ben-Arush, Hospital; and Professor Zeev Weiner, Director, Division Drs. Avi and Raluca Dinu Katz, Dr. Simona Stanca, Dr. Michael Halberthal and Avraham Attar of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Professor Zeev Weiner and Dr. Michael Halberthal

rench Friends of Rambam (AFHORA) hosted a movie F merican Friends of Rambam (AFORAM) held a viewing in support of Rambam, successful event at the home of Linda and Michael screening the film "le prince oublié", A Sendowski in Beverly Hills, California, featuring a starring Omar Sy, Berenice Bejo, presentation entitled “Brain Health: The Next Frontier”, Francois Damiens, and Michel given by Professor David Tanne, Director of the Stroke Hazanavicius. 120 people were in and Cognition Institute at Rambam. Also in attendance attendance in the were longtime Rambam supporters Herta and Paul event in Paris. Amir.

Paris event

L-R Michael Sendowski, Linda Sendowski, Professor David Tanne, Sari Katz Arshadnia abbi Victor Frankel visited Rambam for an MOU R signing with Rambam MedTech. Participants included Dr. Michael Halberthal; Dr. Roee Atlas, CEO, rofessor Rafi Beyar visited Stanford Medicine to Rambam MedTech; Dr. Avi Weissman, Deputy Director, P advance medical and scientific collaboration between Rambam HCC; Ronit Segal Hirshberg, Ph.D., CEO, Rambam and Stanford Medicine. Among those he met Rambam Health Corporation, Director, Economics, were Stanford's Byers Center for Biodesign founder Dr. Marketing & Business Development Division; Professor Paul Yock and Executive Director Lior Gepstein, Director, Department of Cardiology; Dr. Gordon Saul. He was joined by two Avivit Peer, Attending Oncologist in the Genitourinary Rambam physicians and fellows – Clinic and Director of Clinical Trials in Oncology. Rabbi Dr. Lior Lev-Tov and Dr. Nitai Klein, Frankel toured the campus. who are participating in the Center's Global Faculty and Training Program. Sitting L-R Rabbi Victor Frankel, Dr. Michael Halberthal and Dr. Roee Atlas

L-R Gordon Saul, Dr. Paul Yock, Professor Rafi Beyar, Dr. Lior Lev-Tov, Dr. Nitai Klein

28 June 2020 June 2020 29 r. Ruth Perets, Director of the Women's Cancer obert Zarco of Beach hosted D Laboratory at Rambam, traveled to Australia Ra beautiful event for Rambam at his for a series of events. Dr. Perets gave a lecture at exquisite home. Dr. Michal Mekel, Deputy South Caulfield Hebrew Congregation about raising Director of Rambam, gave a presentation awareness of ovarian cancer. She spoke to an audience about Rambam. Thank you to Zelda Zarco in Sydney, about “Is Ovarian Cancer Really for organizing this event. Ovarian, and Why Do We Care?” The event was hosted by AUSFORAM together with NCJWA NSW Division and Jewish Folk Centre Ha’Moadon Ha’Israeli. Dr. Perets also visited the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, where she was given a L-R Dr. Michal Mekel, Ellen Pomerantz, Robert Zarco, L-R Dr. Ruth Peretz and Vered Harel tour and joined a roundtable meeting with Lili Wood, Zelda Zarco, and Dr. Rebeca Zarco researchers.

lovely event was held at the Palm Beach Country A Club in Palm Beach, Florida, hosted by board he International Rheumatology Conference in member Mitch Rubenstein and Laurie Silvers. Dr. Michal T Israel was held at Rambam. Speakers included Mekel gave a fascinating presentation about Rambam Dr. Michael Halberthal; Professor Alexandra Balbir- to a large audience about the need for Gurman, Head of Rambam’s Rheumatology Institute; the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Professor Elon Eisenberg, Dean of The Ruth & Bruce Emergency Hospital, and treating a Rappaport Faculty of Medicine at the Technion diverse population. - Israel Institute of Technology; and Professor Michael Denman, who presented the “Gerald Loewi Memorial Lecture: Introduction”. Attendees L-R Nathaniel Goldman, Mitch Rubenstein, included Professor Rodney Ellen Pomerantz, Laurie Silvers, Dr, Michal Mekel Grahame, a Rheumatology consultant from London. 15 Professor Michael Denman, Professor Rodney Grahame with Professor Alexandra Balbir-Gurman, Dr. Esty Golan and Inbar Shahaf

r. Michael Halberthal and Dr. Esty Golan Dtraveled to to meet with Isaac Herzog, Chairman of the Jewish Agency. During the meeting, they discussed strengthening Rambam-Jewish Agency relations to promote joint projects around the world. "In light of the supportive attitude that Rambam encounters Children and soldiers stand at attention during the siren through its Friends Associations, The Jewish Agency and its representatives worldwide uring the pandemic, Rambam opened a special daycare center for children of Rambam are natural partners for significant initiatives," Demployees. The children, staff members, national service participants, and IDF explained Rambam sources. soldiers marked Israel’s Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror, standing L-R Dr. Michael Halberthal, solemnly at attention for the duration of the siren and attending a moving ceremony in Isaac Herzog, and Dr. Esty Golan honor of the fallen while maintaining social distancing directives.

30 June 2020 June 2020 31 33 e the Future to a special institution,” she confides. a special institution,” to gratifying immensely been has “It it’s very important to everyone. We’re We’re everyone. important very to it’s efforts of the proud entire of the staff at Rambam, having converted state- a into area designated a of-the-art dedicated coronavirus department within 48 hours, and know about that,” the world needs to with emphasis. Meri says king Loo Meri is very passionate about her support one can and for Rambam, hear the admiration in her voice strong her about talks she as Haifa-based the to connection as Rambam “I see center. medical ws Ne

2020 June June see see the the campus over years, progress watching the dramatically up to Campus rise buildings on the West hospital’s the about hearing and landscape, the change in so many areas.” research groundbreaking She feels blessed to be able to play a significantrole in such great is doing Rambam that knowing AFORAM, and the world. things for Israel going with how things are with pleased “I’m pleased with AFORAM and at Rambam. I’m being to on, and look forward the path we’re come.” to for many years involved Sharing Meri believes vital it’s to share information about activities Rambam’s with the board, and notifies its members whenever something new happens at Rambam, in order to ensure that everyone is always own speak with their when they informed. In this way, the news can share friends and acquaintances, they about advances being made and hopefully pique their get them involved. to enough interest The same is true with regard to the coronavirus Michael pandemic, has been in contact with Dr. and she Professor and of Rambam, Halberthal, General Director sharing the updates she with receives Beyar, her board this comes up,and her networks. “When something like

tionships Rela hen Meri was asked to step into the role of of the role step into to hen Meri was asked proposed the challenge to she rose president, they need to see it, to be there, and to to and there, be it, to see to need they enthuses Meri. help,” "We held a number of successful events in various and we look the countrylocales around earlier this year, Meri. noted future," the in events more holding to forward in role intrinsic an played also has organization The developed has Rambam that relationships the fostering Medicine. (University) with Stanford about the path that AFORAM is on, and Meri is excited points out that none of would the have programming occurred without the staff. “They’ve been fantastic. I absolutely do is remarkable. amount of work they The she appreciate what they’ve done and continue to do,” earnestly. says by by Professor Rafi President Beyar, of Rambam’s Esty Golan, Dr. and Associations, Friends International Chief and Relations of International Director Managing does, she everything with As Development. Strategic of always have I and “Sol seriously. very role her takes Meri been active as supporters, and I’m now, strongly involved on the other side of the equation, actively seeking support definitely opened and donations. It’s I feel of fundraising. the practicalities regarding my eyes even felt I than president as now responsibility greater she explains, adding, as an board member,” executive “I really like it. I get very excited about every success and each donation.” Building focus staff AFORAM the and Meri much of their time cultivating supporters, with relationships noting relationships these of all see they that “Sometimes of pride. source a as we have to work a little harder to identify new donors, but we’ve relationships developed with many friends people, generous incredible, their friends – us to who introduce they Once Israel. love who individuals like feel they Rambam, about learn W 2020 June June

rs. Meri Barer is the president of American Friends of Rambam (AFORAM), of American Friends president is the Barer rs. Meri and her husband past 18 months. Meri for the has led she an organization The future depends depends future The on what we do the present in DONOR Sol are longtime friends and supporters longtime friends Sol are Campus, and Care of Rambam Health she and Sol both served of AFORAM, on the executive becoming president prior to children four and have New Jersey, in Mendham, live They for many years. board serving as a lone soldier in the of whom, is currently one and 13 grandchildren, Forces. Defense Israel Spotlight M 3232 special events

ceremony was held to honor Andrea and Elad Boker, creator of the Little Gifts initiative, Avital elmsley Health Discovery Tower Aand Shalev Hulio, and Anat and Omri Lavie. Little Gifts purchased and placed freezers in Hwas illuminated to mark the oncology and hematology departments in hospitals across the country—including Rambam— completion of the 20-story skeletal and filled them with an unlimited supply of popsicles for the patients in those departments. building structure for Helmsley Speakers at the ceremony included Dr. Michal Mekel, Deputy Director; Professor Myriam Health Discovery Tower. Attending Ben-Arush, Director of the Pediatric Division; and Avital Hulio, who attended the ceremony the ceremony held at Rambam alongside family members of both donors. Also in attendance were Dr. Esty Golan, Managing Health Care Campus to celebrate Director of International Relations and Chief of Strategic Development; Amir Ben Yosef, from this milestone achievement were Rambam's Operations Department, and Dr. Netanel Horowitz, Director of Lymphoma Service representatives from Rambam’s and Hematology Clinical Trials. The guests toured the different departments to see patients administration and other staff enjoy the popsicles. members. Following a speech by Dr. Michael Halberthal, Rambam’s General Director; Dr. Halberthal, Professor Rafi Beyar, President of International Friends Associations and Chairman of the Steering Committee, Helmsley Health Discovery Tower; Dr. Esty Golan, Managing Director of International Relations and Chief of Strategic Development; and Mr. Ariye Berkoviz, Deputy CEO of Construction and Development, joined together to press the button that initiated the lighting sequence. Little Gifts Ceremony recognition ceremony Awas held in the Joseph During his speech, Dr. Halberthal Fishman Oncology Center, spoke of the hospital’s gratitude for honoring the Tal Center and those parties instrumental in the Halasartan (Stop Cancer), tower’s establishment, emphasizing with the participation of Zohar and Yankele Yakobson, who established the Tal Center in memory of their daughter the generosity of the Leona M. and Tal, who passed away from cancer. Speakers included Dr. Michael Halberthal, Professor Irit Ben-Aharon, Zohar Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust Yakobson, and several patients, who spoke about the impact that the center has had on their lives. Certificates and Ruth and Sandor Frankel (one and gifts were presented by Dr. Halberthal and Dr. Golan. In addition, recognition plaques were revealed of its trustees) – whose gift enabled in the Joseph Fishman Rambam to establish this facility. Oncology Center’s day treatment clinics, as well as a sign dedicated to Tal showing her picture and displaying the words “Compassion, Love, Truth”.

L-R Ariye Berkoviz, Prof. Rafi Beyar, Unveiling the plaques Dr. Michael Halberthal, Dr. Esty Golan

34 June 2020 June 2020 35 EVERY BREATH YOU TAKE Please donate today And help purchase new ventilators for the next wave of COVID-19

American Friends of Canadian Friends of Israeli Friends of Rambam Medical Center Rambam Medical Centre Rambam Medical Center www.aforam.org www.cfram.ca www.rambam.org.il [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Tel: (212) 292-4499 Tel: (416) 481-5552 Tel: 972 (4) 777-1608

Australian Friends Of French Friends of Spanish Friends of Rambam Rambam Medical Center Rambam Medical Center www.ausforam.org.au [email protected] www.amigosderambam.org [email protected] www.afhora.org [email protected] Tel: 0410 531 593 Tel: 07 82 53 71 10 Tel: (609) 580-268

British Friends of Friends of Rambam Israel Main Office Rambam Medical Centre in India and All Other Countries www.rambamuk.co.uk [email protected] www.rambam.org.il [email protected] Tel: 91 9819864340 [email protected] Tel: (208) 371-1500