A “transformational” gift from Canadian philanthropist Harry Lebovic is establishing a new Hydrotherapy Center at the Gandel Rehabilitation Center at the Hadassah Medical Organization’s Mount Scopus campus in Jerusalem.
Lebovic, a member of the Hadassah International (HI) board of directors and a dedicated supporter of HI affiliate, Canadian Hadassah-WIZO (CHW), announced the US$4 million (C$5.5 million) gift via video at HI’s “Bring Light. Save Lives” Gala in Paris in early November (WATCH Harry Lebovic’s gift announcement).
“This gift will help thousands of patients recover from both physical and psychological wounds,” Lebovic told the more than 250 Hadassah friends and supporters from across the globe gathered in the French capital’s Hôtel de Ville. “Following the events of October 7th and since,” he continued, “the need for rehabilitation has never been greater and will continue for weeks, months and years to come.”
The state-of-the-art Hydrotherapy Center comprises two pools and serves as a large, aquatic gym that can treat more than 150 patients a day through a combination of individual and group therapy. The larger pool has cold water, and is used to treat acute injuries and inflammation, while the warm water in the smaller pool is more effective in treating chronic pain and stiffness. In both cases, the water’s natural buoyancy provides support for patients as they regain strength, balance and flexibility.
HI executive director Jorge Diener paid tribute to Lebovic. “Harry’s leadership and commitment not only benefit our patients, but they also light the way for countless others who seek to achieve real impact in helping Israel heal.”
Added Lisa Colt-Kotler, CHW CEO, “Thanks to Harry Lebovic’s visionary generosity, CHW and Hadassah are changing lives, providing hope, and building brighter futures for those who need it most.”
Lebovic echoed these themes as he reflected later on his role as a member of the HI board, which he called “an extension of my lifelong commitment to building stronger communities, not just with bricks and mortar, but through healing, innovation, and hope.”