(From left to right): Danny, Tal, Liel, Emily, and Alla Shazov.
Jimmy, an adorable brown Poodle, has brought a new sense of light to the Shazov family, after the family’s devastating loss of their father, Sergeant Major (Res.) Ilia Shazov.
Ilia made aliyah from Belarus in 1991 and enlisted in the IDF’s Technological and Maintenance Corps in 1993, where he quickly became known for the leadership and professionalism that defined his career. Together with his wife, Alla, they raised a family, while he continued to maintain his tremendous commitment to the army.
In 2000, Ilia was diagnosed with leukemia. He continued to serve with immense pride throughout years of treatment, remaining a source of hope for those around him even as his health declined. Ilia passed away on February 5, 2005, at the age of 30.
Alla discovered the FIDF Emotional Support Dogs program at an FIDF widow retreat. Encouraged by her children’s wishes, she welcomed Jimmy into their home, and the family fell in love with him instantly. Alla notes that Jimmy provides a unique kind of intuitive support that “no human can do.” She is deeply eager to meet the donors who made it possible for them to receive Jimmy, to express her heartfelt gratitude.
For more than two years, the demands on Israel’s soldiers—and the toll on their families—have intensified significantly. In this time of heartbreak, specially trained emotional support dogs provide a powerful source of healing, offering comfort and stability to bereaved families navigating profound loss.
Learn more about how FIDF provides essential, long-term support for our bereaved families.
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