The 2022 Friends of Sheba Gala

Gala 2022: Life-Saving Innovation

During this year’s event, titled Life-Saving Innovation in Israel and Abroad, we were honored to share the stories of three brave patients who faced and overcame severe injuries and illnesses, owing much to Sheba’s latest medical innovations – developed and deployed with the generous support of our friends.

Recognizing a severe national deficiency of burn care in Israel around a decade ago, it was the support of our friends that allowed Sheba to open the first dedicated burn center in Israel. The advanced facility treated one of the three aforementioned patients, IDF veteran Itzik Saidyan, who had suffered extensive burns.

Following a lengthy recovery period, with great excitement and emotion on the part of Sheba personnel and guests, Itzik was able to participate in the event. It was Saidyan’s first public appearance since the incident that caused his injury. 

Attending the special event, among other notable dignitaries, Israeli President, Isaac Herzog, commented on Saidyan’s presence: “After following Saidyan’s recovery for some time, I am delighted to see Sheba’s dedication pay off.”

Thinking about the future as much as the past, Sheba’s next big project was presented to participants during the gala: a new burn center dedicated to the unique needs of children. With a bit of help, we are confident this, too, will soon become a reality.

We would like to take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to all those who support Sheba’s mission of providing hope without boundaries.