Dear friends,
Two weeks ago, on Chol Hamoed Sukkot, a historic moment took place for BFL; we had the dedication of “Carmi.” Carmi is our new BFL therapy boat dedicated to the loving memory of Carmi Mandel A”H, who the family lost tragically last year. Carmi, the son of Rabbi Marc Mandel and Rebbitzin Jackie Mandel, was a remarkable young man with a passion for three things, his family, Israel, and the sea.
The impact of water therapy and sailing on PTSD is well documented. When people are on the sea, their minds naturally calm, and they become more open to healing and overcoming trauma. We are already seeing the impact of this as our injured soldiers from around the country report to us how much they are getting out of both the sessions and bonding that take place on Carmi. This incredible project was conceived and dedicated by Bob and Amy Book in partnership with Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein and will bring healing to hundreds of soldiers in the next year alone. We are deeply grateful to them on behalf of all of our 1,300 members.
The process leading up to the ceremony started months ago when seven BFL soldiers, led by BFL member Snir Pilus, sailed Carmi from Greece to Hertzliya over a 10-day voyage. It was a challenging journey of growth, which thankfully was documented in this powerful video: Bringing Carmi Home
On Wednesday, October 12th, a group gathered at Carmi, where Rabbi Mandel made the Shehecheyanu prayer. To say it was emotional is a huge understatement. Every one of our soldiers has been forced to deal with pain and loss at a young age, and yet witnessing this amazing family come together in a moment of healing in the memory of their precious son and brother deeply affected all of us.
The ceremony was followed by lunch at our Sukkah and was attended by Rabbinical leaders and dignitaries. It was a fitting tribute to Carmi Mandel A”H and to each of our soldiers who have sacrificed everything to protect Israel and the Jewish People. One of the most significant moments was when Carmi was posthumously made a BFL member. His spirit will live on forever. May this project and the healings that take place on the Carmi sailboat be merit to his neshama.
Shabbat Shalom from Israel,
Yaniv
PS
Last March we rode, ran, swam, and sweated shoulder to shoulder amongst brothers, crossing the entire state of Israel: all the way from Mount Hermon to the Red Sea in Eilat. This is known as one of our most significant events ever experienced in BFL.
On November 20th, we will get together on Zoom for the worldwide premiere of IronBrother 2022!
You are welcome to invite friends and family to the joint watching.
Looking forward to experiencing this momentous occasion together.
To add to the calendar – http://evt.to/aigsemeiw
Here is the link to join on Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86882485363
