It was a Friday, March 6, 2015, the peak of the Purim celebrations in Jerusalem. I, a Border Police officer, was on duty in the center of the capital, protecting the residents.
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After a briefing, I and several of my fellow policewomen began walking toward the light rail, when in an instant, it happened: a ramming attack. A vehicle appeared in front of us and inside it, a terrorist with a determination to kill and hatred in his eyes. He steered the car onto the sidewalk and ran over me and my three other border guards and a civilian.
After pushing us to the ground, he got out of the car and charged at us with an ax to make sure that what he set out to do that day – killing Israeli soldiers – would be completed. That is when I heard the shorts and realized that other police officers at the scene neutralized him.
I was rammed into first, although I don't remember exactly how and where I was hit. I awoke to the sound of gunshots and sirens. I remember not being able to scream for help, fighting for every breath, unable to move due to what I later learned was my broken back. My friends kept me awake and thanks to them, I am alive today.
After being hospitalized, the long journey of rehabilitation began. The process took a little over two years, with more surgeries and hospitalizations in between.
Afterward, I continued my treatments at a military hospital. I went through a long series of treatments and participated in various trainings and activities run by the IDF organization for the disabled, which vastly contributed to my healing.
Fortunately, my family stood by me and did not let me give up for a moment. They continued to push me to choose life instead of getting stuck in the past. They made me realize that I had no choice but to face the challenge and be grateful for surviving and for what I have.
During the rehabilitation process, I met a friend, who, unfortunately, has since passed. He once told me something that has stayed with me. "Every person you meet is fighting a struggle you don't know about, so it is important to be nice at all times."
So in honor of IDF Disabled Veterans Appreciation Day, I have one request: love more and hate less, and be empathetic and caring. Be aware and understanding of those who surround you.
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