Saving lives even after death – Gamla’s heart and lungs were transplanted into a 54-year-old and a 47-year-old at Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Campus.

By Hezy Laing

IDF Captain Shahar Gamla, 23, made the ultimate sacrifice after being critically injured by an explosive drone in southern Lebanon.

Following his tragic passing at Rambam Hospital in Haifa, his grieving family generously chose to donate his organs.

This heroic decision gave a second chance at life to six critically ill patients.

A Legacy of Life-Saving Generosity

The successful transplants took place across several Israeli medical centers.

Gamla’s heart and lungs were transplanted into a 54-year-old and a 47-year-old at Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Campus.

Further life-saving surgeries took place at Schneider Children’s Medical Center and various other hospitals, providing transplants to recipients ranging from a seven-year-old girl who received a portion of his liver, to adults up to age 72.

His corneas and skin tissue were also donated to restore vision and treat severe burns.

Deep Roots and Bravery

Captain Gamla was a resident of the central Israeli city of Lod.

Before and during his military service, he was deeply committed to helping others and embodied a spirit of deep selflessness.

In the wake of his passing, his mother remarked that there was “nothing greater than organ donation leaving Shahar to live in other people”.

Through this profound act of love and compassion, Gamla continues to bring hope to families across Israel.

A Growing Movement

In recent years, Israel has seen a significant surge in organ donations during times of national tragedy.

Families of fallen soldiers and victims of terror have repeatedly turned their unimaginable grief into a beacon of life for strangers, significantly raising the consent rate for organ donation across the country.

For more information on becoming an organ donor or to learn about the transplantation process in Israel, visit the Israel National Transplant Center (Adi)