A Mother of a Child with Leukemia: "When He Rises Above His Fears and Pains, I Learn What True Faith Is"

"Sometimes I wonder how the Jews felt with the sea before them and the Egyptians behind. What would I have done, how would I have felt in their shoes?", begins Bayla Berkman—mother of a six-year-old diagnosed with leukemia—in one of the most moving columns of this time. "When our son Shmuli was diagnosed with leukemia about five months ago, everything turned upside down. Doctors, nurses, hospital appointments, chemotherapy, and medications I never thought I could pronounce entered my life.

"I had questions. Lots of questions, many fears, and too many doubts. On the first Friday night at the hospital, my eyes filled with tears. I left the room to avoid upsetting my son. When I returned, he looked at me and said, 'Mom, don't cry. Please. Everything will be okay.'

"He has such great trust in Hashem, such a strong connection to Him—that his joy and hope spread their wings and envelop those of us fortunate enough to be within his circle. From family and friends to doctors and staff—who laugh at his jokes and sing his songs. Shmuli brings light and hope to everyone."

According to Berkman, children see things through the purest lens, and "it's a blessing to get a glimpse into their true lives. I've learned so much from the children I've met in the cancer ward. Their smiles, open hearts, and radiant eyes—all tell a story of courage, strength, and bravery."

"How fortunate we are to have such strong guardians for our sacred Torah—children"

On the difficult challenge of dealing with the terrible disease and relating to this season of liberation, Berkman writes: "There are so many times in life when one faces challenges that seem insurmountable. Sometimes we feel trapped, torn internally, and find it hard to make any decisions. While turbulent and rising waves confront us, chaos and terrible turmoil pursue us from behind, mercilessly. What will we do? Which direction will we go?"

The answer, to her, is clear beyond doubt. "The children of Israel moved forward with a leap full of faith. After crossing the sea and receiving the Torah, Hashem asked Moses who would guard this precious gift. Various suggestions were made but rejected until they declared that the children would keep the Torah. Then Hashem was pleased and agreed to give the treasure of the Torah to the Jews. How fortunate we are to have such strong guardians for our sacred Torah.

"The Exodus from Egypt was an experience filled with uncertainty. Where would they get food to eat, clothes to wear, and protection from the desert's dangers? Yet the children never doubted. When Pharaoh's soldiers tried to kill them, the children were hidden and kept alive through great miracles. They knew that Hashem was guarding them.

"Every year, as Passover approaches, we are told to imagine that the Exodus happened today. We do this by cleaning not only our homes but also ourselves deeply from within. We strive to overcome our internal exiles and limitations, transforming them into positive and benevolent qualities.

"When I see Shmuli rising above his fears and pain, I learn the meaning of true faith. Our trust in Hashem is revealed in his vibrant spirit, joy, and love for life—even during the most frightening and challenging times. How fortunate we are that children teach us how to be grateful and serve Hashem with joy. Yes, I feel ready to leave my personal Egypt and celebrate the Festival of Passover."