Reclaiming Life After Nova

Nati, 26, from Rehovot, was a university student in the centre of Israel. A sociable guy whose life was fast-paced with work, studies and friends.

Like many, he found deep connection in the world of parties. A place where people let their guard down and open their hearts. Therefore, when the Nova party was organised for October 7th, it was natural for him to be there.

But the event turned into a nightmare. He ran, hid and heard screams and gunshots that have not left him to this day.

When it was all over Nati returned to his parents’ house, but never really returned to himself. The anxieties, the nightmares, the feeling of distrust, everything took over him.

Then he found the “party survivors” group at Myisrael’s partner charity, Home Base.

Through the sessions funded by Myisrael– which included team football training, group discussions and emotional support – Nati began to reconnect. He returned to moving, feeling, communicating. On the football pitch he found community.

“There was a moment when I didn’t know if I would live. Today I know I have what it takes.”

Nati has since renewed his studies at university and has learnt how to function in the new reality he faces post October 7th.