Cancer is more than a diagnosis—it’s a journey shaped by resilience and the people who stand beside you. This World Cancer Day, we highlight Samantha Kretzmar’s story, a breast cancer patient at Sheba Medical Center who captured her experience through photography. Her exhibition, Side By Side, is a tribute to the doctors, caregivers, and fellow patients who played a role in her healing.

Samantha’s journey began in January 2024 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Facing the difficult path ahead, she sought out the best possible care—and found it at Sheba Medical Center’s Jusidman Cancer Center, Israel’s leading cancer treatment center.

Samantha recalls her first meeting with Dr. Opher Globus, who would become a key figure in her treatment. “Once I completed all my initial test biopsies, MRI, PET, CT scan, etc., we had a meeting set up with him for the treatment plan, and we met with him and we had a really good connection. It didn’t take much time to decide that we wanted to continue working with him, and that meant coming to Sheba.”

Beyond advanced treatment, Sheba provided personalized, holistic care, ensuring that Samantha felt supported at every stage.“I remember my first treatment. I was met by Yaara. She was really great. It was very nice to have her come and just introduce herself and tell us about all the services that they offer and the support. And she continued to be a support throughout the duration of the treatments.”

Side By Side: A Tribute to Caregivers

As she navigated chemotherapy and surgery, Samantha’s instinct to document life took on a new purpose. Through her photography, she captured the essence of Sheba’s Jusidman Cancer Center: a place of compassion and connection.

“As a portrait photographer and cancer patient, my experience in the ward became a gateway into the world of the caretakers at Sheba. I decided to create this collection to explore the people who supported me as I navigated my own path of healing.”

Among those featured in Side By Side is Dr. Opher Globus, who reflects:

Another portrait captures Yaara Stav, a dedicated personal and family companion in the Unit for Young Cancer Patients of Sheba’s Oncology Institute. “This job has given me strength and a deep love for life. Every patient I accompany finds a place in my heart, and a special personal bond is formed. Most people who hear about my job think I’m crazy for choosing it, but I don’t focus on cancer—I focus on people.”

Samantha also met Avi Kroyn, a fellow patient who has made it his mission to spread positivity. “My name is Avi. I’m a blacksmith, wood artist, and painter—born to ride motorcycles. I’m also living with blood cancer and a brain tumor. For the past two years, I’ve been a frequent visitor to Sheba Medical Center, spreading optimism among the medical staff and fellow patients.”

Through Side By Side, Samantha’s work reminds us that behind every treatment plan, there are people who heal, support, and uplift.


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