Jerusalem, 14 May, 2025 (TPS-IL) — As missiles from Yemen triggered sirens across Israel on Tuesday, families braced once more for danger. But at the Aleh center in Bnei Brak, staff refused to let fear triumph over joy. In the shadow of conflict, they chose to celebrate.
Avia, a bright-eyed girl with cerebral palsy had one heartfelt wish: to mark her seventh birthday with a smile. Despite the constant threat and emotional toll of the day, her caregivers made it happen. They transformed Avia’s classroom into a colorful celebration, complete with balloons, streamers, birthday songs, and cake.
The school is run by Aleh, which provides cutting-edge therapies, specialized education, advocacy, and a nurturing environment for children and young adults with complex disabilities. Based in Bnei Brak, the organization is dedicated to empowering individuals with severe disabilities, helping them reach their full potential and lead meaningful lives.
“In the midst of war, we choose joy,” said one Aleh staff member. “We will not allow missiles to define the spirit of our children. We will keep celebrating life – especially the lives of those who fight every day to overcome their challenges.”
But the celebration didn’t stop there. To Avia’s astonishment, Israeli children’s entertainer Yuval Hamebulbal, whom she adores, sent a special video message filled with love and encouragement. Along with the video came a bundle of gifts, prompting a radiant smile that spread to everyone in the room.
For the staff, this was more than just a birthday party. It was a stand against fear, a small act of resistance wrapped in streamers and song.
“Even when rockets fall and the world around us shakes,” said Rabbi Yehuda Marmorstein, Aleh’s founder and CEO, “We at Aleh hold tightly to one unshakable belief – that every child, no matter their limitations, deserves to feel valued and cherished. Avia’s birthday is not just a celebration of her life; it’s a declaration of our collective strength, compassion, and unwavering hope.”
