In the wake of unimaginable tragedy, Ariel Zohar stands as the lone survivor in a family of five, having lost his parents Yasmin and Yaniv, along with his sisters Keshet and Tchelet, and his grandfather Haim in the horrific events of the October 7th massacre at their home in Kibbutz Nahal Oz. Despite the overwhelming sorrow that engulfs him, Ariel recently marked his Bar-Mitzvah, a poignant milestone that he navigated without the presence of his beloved family.
Amidst the chaos and devastation, there exists a poignant symbol of resilience and continuity—the Tefillin. This sacred object, rescued from the ravages of the family home by the courageous volunteers of Zaka and the Israeli defense forces, is a tangible link to Ariel's heritage. It once belonged to his grandfather Marko, a Holocaust survivor who was also murdered on October 7th, and was passed down through the generations to his father. Ariel's sole plea during the tumult was to salvage this cherished item, a testament to the enduring strength of his familial bonds.
In the midst of grief, we, Tomer and Ayelet Cohen, emerge as Ariel's aunt and uncle, compelled to become the guardians of his future. In this sea of sorrow and rage, Ariel represents a beacon of light—a survivor determined to forge ahead despite the heart-wrenching loss he has endured.
To ensure Ariel's emotional and professional future, we are launching this fund with an ambitious target of 10,000 times Chai. This financial goal is not just a number; it is a lifeline for Ariel's education and success in the world that awaits him. We envision a future where Ariel can navigate the challenges of adolescence with emotional stability and resilience, transforming into a young adult capable of realizing his dreams.
Ariel's journey toward healing and growth hinges on the support of compassionate individuals who recognize the profound impact they can have on his life. With your generous contributions, we can provide Ariel with the resources necessary to overcome adversity and pave the way for a future marked by hope, strength, and fulfillment. Together, let us be the driving force behind Ariel's journey to a brighter tomorrow.
Am Israel Chai!
