Twice Defeated Death, and On the Third Time Lit a Candle of Hope

On October 24, a grim message was received at the trauma unit of Ziv Medical Center, reporting a severely wounded casualty on his way by helicopter, with hopes that he would survive. A few minutes later, a military helicopter landed at the hospital courtyard, carrying a soldier in critical condition.

The soldier was Sergeant Major Einao Mamo, from Brigade 55 in the reserves. His injuries were severe and critical: a penetrating injury to the chest and left shoulder, multiple rib fractures, and active bleeding. Despite initial treatment in the field, Einao arrived at Ziv in critical condition, with undetectable blood pressure and a diminished state of consciousness.

The trauma staff at Ziv immediately sprang into determined and precise action, understanding that every second was crucial in the fight for Einao's life. After complex, lifesaving initial treatment, he was urgently transferred to a CT scan that revealed the full severity of his injuries. From there, he was moved directly to intensive care, sedated and ventilated.

For three long and nerve-wracking days, the medical team fought for Einao's every breath, every heartbeat. On the fourth day, a medical miracle occurred: Einao was weaned off the ventilator, regained consciousness, and began to breathe on his own. Once he recovered enough to talk and eat, he was transferred for further treatment in the thoracic surgery department at a medical center close to his home.

Einao lighting a Chanukah candle

Yet Einao's story doesn't end there, as it turns out that just nine months earlier, he was injured in Gaza and returned to service after recovery. Now, he faces yet another challenge, possibly the toughest of all.

Dr. Breslavsky, head of trauma at Ziv Medical Center, recalls the critical moments: "Our surgeons acted quickly and professionally to stabilize Einao's condition. For us, saving his life was a tremendous source of satisfaction, and we were very moved to meet him again. He is a true fighter."

This week, Einao returned to Ziv Medical Center in Safed – this time on his feet, with a broad smile on his face, accompanied by his partner Karen and his son. At a festive ceremony held at the medical center in honor of Chanukah, attended by the medical team that saved his life, Einao shared his personal story, the miracle he experienced, and warmly thanked the dedicated team: "Thank you for saving my life," he said with great emotion.