In this deeply personal episode, I sit down with my Mum and sister to reflect on loss, resilience, and legacy ahead of Yom Hazikaron. Together, we honor the memory of Nathanel, a beloved son, brother, friend and soldier, who was tragically killed defending his army base and the nearby kibbutz of Zikkim on October 7, 2023. We discuss who he was as a person, his deep connection with Israel and how our family's connection with the country has developed over the past 18 months.

We talk about what Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut now mean to us, and how these national days have taken on even deeper, more personal meaning. But we also share some laughs and why celebrating family and national events, partying, and smiling is all part of carrying on Nathanel's legacy.

Thank you for listening, and for joining us in remembering Nathanel.

Donate to loan soldier center Bayit Shel Benji (write "in memory of Nathanel Young): https://benjihillman.org/donate/

Learn more about Nathanel and the projects in his memory: https://www.nathanel-young.com/

Make sticky spare ribs in memory of Nathanel: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DE0m487RKHF3iNOOP6mer7TA5O9gpWL7fOW5A0YFHf4/edit?usp=sharing

Born in China and later immigrating to the US, Shirley pursued a successful career in hi-tech before a life-changing trip to Israel in 2000 reshaped her path. Leaving her career behind, she volunteered with Bridges for Peace in Jerusalem, developing deep connections with the Jewish community. In 2018, she and her husband Bill launched Ten Gentiles, equipping Christians to serve Israel through hands-on support, prayer, and giving.

In this episode, we explore the effect that trip to Israel 25 years ago had on Shirley, what draws her to devote her life to supporting Israel, and what she has learned about the Jewish people.

Learn more about the Ten Gentiles: https://www.tengentiles.org/.

Send any feedback or thoughts to: israelsheroes@gmail.com.

Meet Tasha Cohen. On October 7, 2023, Tasha’s coping mechanism immediately became helping others. What started with spending many hours a day driving soldiers and equipment to army bases in the north of Israel developed into a huge operation providing physiotherapy and support to soldiers. Chayal’s Angels has provided over 10,000 treatments in over 135 bases. In this episode, we look at how Tasha has turned her life challenges, battling chronic pain and mental health issues, to make a huge impact during the war.

Learn more about Chayal’s Angels, donate or volunteer here: https://www.chayalsangels.org/

Send any feedback or thoughts to: israelsheroes@gmail.com.