Doctors warned his family that his chances of survival were slim.
By Hezy Laing
IDF soldier Moshe Chaim Alush returned to his hometown of Gedera this week after a long and difficult recovery from injuries sustained in the fighting in Gaza.
Alush, a combat soldier known among his comrades for his calm under pressure, was wounded during an intense exchange of fire when shrapnel from an explosive device struck him in the chest and abdomen.
Evacuated under fire, he arrived at the hospital in critical condition, and doctors initially warned his family that his chances of survival were slim.
The damage to his internal organs was severe, and the medical team prepared them for the possibility that he might not wake up.
But his family, led by his mother, Keren, refused to accept the grim predictions, and stood by his side through a long journey of rehabilitation.
Alush then defied every expectation.
After multiple surgeries and days in intensive care, he began to stabilize.
His doctors later said that his recovery bordered on the miraculous, crediting both the medical staff and Alush’s own determination.
As the weeks passed, he slowly regained strength, first sitting up, then standing, and eventually taking his first steps with the help of physical therapists.
His rehabilitation became a symbol of resilience, and updates on his progress spread widely, drawing support from across the country.
By the time he was discharged, Alush had become a local hero.
In Gedera, word of his return sparked a spontaneous outpouring of emotion. Hundreds of residents lined the streets, waving Israeli flags, holding signs with his name, and cheering as he arrived.
Children climbed onto their parents’ shoulders to catch a glimpse of him, and elderly neighbors who had watched him grow up wiped away tears.
The crowd erupted when Alush stepped out of the vehicle, still moving carefully but smiling broadly.
Surrounded by family, friends, and strangers who felt like family, he was welcomed home with warmth that reflected not only relief at his recovery but deep gratitude for his service and sacrifice.
