Fifty Hadassah International leaders, representing twenty-nine nationalities from the 4 corners of the world, including 11 time zones, 25 countries, and 17 languages came together in Jerusalem from November 19th to 22nd 2022 for their first in-person meetings since the start of the Covid pandemic.
With welcome hugs for those who have been seen only on Zoom screens for the past two years, Hadassah International settled down to examine our remarkable 40-year history, what has been achieved over the past two years, and what needs to be done as we march proudly into the future.
Challenged by an Israeli global expert on international affairs, participants looked at global trends and celebrated what Hadassah International has been able to achieve over the past three years by organizing two humanitarian missions reaching out to those in need of help. A panel of Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO) doctors, nurses, and administrative staff who participated in these missions spoke about their experiences. Hadassah International was able to bring help and ongoing advice on Covid-19 to Argentina and humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees on the Polish border during the first months following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The HMO professionals all stated that their participation in these missions was one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives.
On the second day, hard hat tours were arranged so that Hadassah International’s leadership could see the progress of the Gandel Rehabilitation Center rising swiftly on the Hadassah Hospital Campus on Mount Scopus. Participants were amazed at the size and scope of this new building that will provide a much-needed service to a population of well over a million and is due to open in 2024.
The focus then turned to the campus of the Hadassah Hospital at Ein Kerem, with discussions on the future Cancer Center and visiting some of the Hadassah Centers of Excellence in small groups. The opportunity to learn about some of the cutting-edge new technology being developed at Hadassah was also presented.
The last day was spent discussing the next steps for Hadassah International, and hearing from Young Hadassah International, a group of 50 young energetic, idealistic leaders from around the world who have found their cause in helping Hadassah.
For three days, the energy level and enthusiasm were so high that the Hadassah International leadership was inclined to burst into song whenever possible.
A wonderful time was had by all, and participants went home stimulated and renewed in their resolve to continue the work of Hadassah International in supporting the Hadassah Medical Organization and bringing health to the world.
