“Our Ido was 29 when he fell in combat near Kibbutz Kerem Shalom-Shula, leading his soldiers with courage and heart. Since then, our lives have been filled with longing and missed opportunities, the moments that could’ve been but never will be.
Joining an FIDF retreat changed everything. It gave us air to breathe — a place where we could finally let our guard down and be surrounded by others who truly understood our pain. The retreat offered warmth, therapy, rest, and a sense of belonging we hadn’t felt since losing Ido. It reminded us that even in grief, we are not alone.
–Tomi, father of Major Ido Shani, z”l“
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to honoring and supporting the brave men and women of the IDF who risk everything to protect the State of Israel and the Jewish people. While the mission of the IDF’s heroes is to look after Israel, defending its people, borders and freedom, FIDF’s mission is to look after them. FIDF provides life-changing support through education, financial aid, bereavement programs, mental health services and more, ensuring that every soldier, veteran and bereaved family knows they are not alone. Through global partnerships and unwavering commitment, FIDF stands as a pillar of strength for those who sacrifice so much in service to the Jewish homeland. For more information visit: https://www.fidf.org/

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