In a heartwarming turn of events amidst the ongoing Gaza war, Michelle Rukovitzin, a 21-year-old intelligence systems technician critically injured during the Oct. 7 onslaught, has become engaged to her boyfriend of four years.
Rukovitzin suffered life-threatening injuries at the Kissufim base during the Oct. 7 attacks. For three agonizing months, she lay in a coma, with doctors offering little hope for her recovery. Yet, her partner Rinat remained steadfast by her side, refusing to give up hope.
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"I've never witnessed love like this outside of Disney movies," shared social media influencer Lee Menahem, daughter of a hospital volunteer. "When everyone else had lost faith, he never doubted. He never left her side.
"Initially, Michelle was completely unresponsive, barely able to blink. Deep down, I feared she might never recover, potentially spending her life on life support. That was the prevailing thought. But there was one person who refused to accept this – Rinat. I couldn't help but think, what an extraordinary man. This is the most incredible love story I've ever encountered, surpassing any Hollywood movie or fairy tale."
Buoyed by the unwavering support of Rinat and her family, Rukovitzin regained consciousness and embarked on an arduous rehabilitation journey. Despite the monumental challenges ahead – relearning to speak and grappling with physical limitations – the couple faces the future with optimism. Though still confined to a wheelchair and uncertain if she'll ever walk again, their bond remains unshakeable.
In a moment that defied all odds, Rinat surprised Rukovitzin with a heartfelt marriage proposal at the hospital on Sept. 1, marking exactly four years since they began dating. Now, as she prepares to leave the hospital, the couple looks forward to writing the next chapter of their lives together.
