The Last Words of the Deceased: "Don't Forget to Distribute the Shabbat Leaflets"

In 1985, Avner Orekibe was injured in a work accident when a forklift overturned on his back, breaking his vertebrae and ribs. After long years of rehabilitation, he was released home but was not eligible for disability benefits. Avner embarked on a long struggle against Knesset members and officials for his rights. During the difficult days of protests and meetings, he promised himself: "Once I finish my battle with this cruel dinosaur, I will protect the entire population oppressed by the establishment." Thus, Avner founded the AHAVA - Disabled Organization in Israel, advocating over the years for the rights of many who couldn't do so themselves. However, about two weeks ago, his many acts of kindness ceased abruptly when he passed away at the age of just 61.

"I'm Here to Help"

"In 2006, I protested for my disabled son in front of the Ministry of Education," recalls Dafna Azerzar, who became Avner's full partner in the organization. "My son needed a personal aide, and when I arrived at the protest, I was surprised to see many other mothers like me fighting for their children's rights. On the second day, Avner appeared in his wheelchair, announcing 'I'm here to help.' By then, he had years of personal advocacy in the Knesset and government offices, and he wanted to see how he could advance our cause. Thanks to his help, the protest succeeded, my son and the other children received what they deserved, and we thought we could return to normal life."

But Dafna's routine changed completely. "Immediately afterward, Avner approached me and said: 'You have the power to make a difference, I have influence in the Knesset, let's unite to help other disabled people.' He wanted to leverage his personal struggle for broader change. Thus, the AHAVA organization began its work and grew over the years. Today, the organization advocates for legislative change for disabled individuals and runs a support line for those facing bureaucratic issues and difficulties in exercising their rights, as well as organizing social activities for them."

For the past 15 years, they volunteered entirely. "It filled Avner's day since becoming disabled. He always looked for ways to help others, taking them to Knesset meetings and back home, organizing trips, and ensuring all details were handled so everyone would enjoy. He sometimes suffered severe pain, yet nothing stopped him from smiling or continuing his mission, which he saw as his purpose in the world."

How did the Knesset members react when he 'bothered' them repeatedly?

"They respected and loved him dearly because they knew he had no personal interests. Even with disagreements, he ended conversations on a positive note. To understand his heartfelt actions, I'll share one story: a mother whose disabled son died thought our relationship had ended, but Avner continued helping her with burial arrangements, ensuring she wasn't deceived. He didn't leave her until she no longer needed help."

Another story highlighting his pure giving involved a woman ungrateful to him. "She was negotiating with the Housing Ministry for an accessible apartment, a process spanning years due to stringent regulations. Avner decided she deserved the apartment, meeting with Knesset members, ministers, and advisors, tirelessly advancing her cause. When she finally got the apartment, she didn't call to inform us. I asked Avner: 'Didn't she even call to thank you?' Yet, he wasn't angry and said: 'She's been through a lot, and I didn't expect anything in return.'"

Dafna discovered he would wake at 2:30 AM to attend a Knesset meeting at 6 AM. "For a disabled person, preparing takes time. He woke early, got ready, prayed, and explained: 'There's an important meeting for the disabled or someone specific; I can't miss it.'"

Last Request

Parallel to his extensive organizational work, Avner also ran a children's Tehillim group in his neighborhood. "He was a man of kindness, secretly helping many," his son-in-law says. One favorite project was distributing Shabbat leaflets, including *Hidabroot* leaflets, in local synagogues. "Five years ago, I first saw him arranging a pile of leaflets," his son-in-law continues. "I asked what it was, and he replied: 'These are merits; we must share them with the public.' He distributed them at eight synagogues, leaving the ninth to me. Avner wouldn't skip distribution even when unwell because it was essential to him. A month and a half ago, shipment delays worried him, prompting calls to offices for updates."

What happens now?

"People have asked since everyone eagerly awaits the leaflets, snatching them before I place them down. But before detailing the leaflets' future, I'll share that a month before his death, he fasted for three days. When we asked why, he said it was to atone for the sins of Israel. Later, he spoke with the head of the disabled veterans organization, saying: 'I love you, take care of yourself.' In his last conversation, amidst his difficult condition, his final request was: 'Tell my sons-in-law not to forget to distribute the leaflets.' So, I took on the distribution in his memory."