Our grandson, Staff Sgt. Roey Weiser, was killed on October 7, 2023, defending his base as the war began. For over a year, we focused on holding our family together — helping our children and grandchildren survive the unbearable. Only later did we realize how invisible our own grief had become.
When we joined the FIDF’s retreat for bereaved grandparents, surrounded by more than 200 other grieving grandparents, we finally found space to breathe, speak, and be seen. There, no explanations were needed; everyone understood. It felt like one long embrace.
The retreat gave us warmth, therapy, and community. It was the first time we could truly let our hearts open. Even after two years, the pain does not disappear, but when someone takes your hand, looks you in the eye, and truly understands — that is what FIDF gave us.
— Ruti and Andy Weiser, grandparents of Staff Sgt. Roey Weiser, 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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