Lighting Up Lives: The World’s Largest Balloon Menorah Sends a Powerful Message

Visitors to the Schneider Medical Center during Chanukah were greeted by the world’s largest balloon menorah. This incredible creation was constructed by "Hope and Healing," made from 25,000 recyclable balloons, and brought to life on the first night of Chanukah. It was a herculean effort involving 100 volunteers and rappelling experts from 'Sport Attraction' in a display of community spirit and inspiration.

Deborah Agassi, director of "Hope and Healing," shares the background of this massive project: "This is the tenth year we’ve embraced this tradition. Both volunteers and past patients eagerly anticipate it. Some patients, who encountered the menorah in previous years, return to the hospital each Chanukah, even though they no longer receive treatment there. Additionally, kids with chronic illnesses, for whom Schneider is a second home, remember the menorah and join us to lend a hand, take pictures, and be part of the celebration."

This year, Deborah notes that they decided to include the symbol of the captives on the menorah, as a testament to hope and prayer that the miracles of Chanukah will finally bring them home. "As faithful individuals, the menorah is not just about the light of Chanukah but also our belief that light will prevail over darkness, and we will celebrate miracles together," she explains. "Moreover, Schneider was the hospital that welcomed the initially released captives with warmth and professionalism. There's an inherent connection between the captives and the medical community, especially since they aren’t receiving the medical assistance they need. Our goal with adding the symbol to the menorah was to deliver a clear message – 'We are with you and will not forget you.'"

The menorah’s creation required significant investment, and Deborah recounts, "We enlisted the most amazing team in the world, including project managers, volunteers, and service members who helped recruit more volunteers, fundraise, and obtain special approvals and insurance for the event. Every year we collaborate with 'Joy is Us,' who makes it all possible by providing top-notch materials while assuming the high costs, along with 'Asaf the Balloon’s' planning and design."

"This year, there was a particularly nerve-wracking moment during the rappelling, when just at the peak of raising the menorah, an alarm sounded, adding to the drama of the event," Deborah describes. "But the strong spirit of the volunteers prevailed, and they continued their mission with dedication and bravery."

What do you plan to do with the magnificent menorah once Chanukah concludes? What becomes of the balloons?

"After Chanukah, we hold a special ceremony where we dismantle the menorah and transform its branches into balloon chains. These chains are then used to create art and decorations throughout the departments all year long, with some going to recycling."