MDA israel

Magen David Adom's Wish Ambulance has granted thousands of wishes to patients with life-limiting conditions since it began operation in 2009. Among the wishes that have been granted, are flights in a helicopter, attending family events, prayers at the Western Wall, and spending time at the beach. 

An event to thank the crews who all volunteer to be a part of this special project was held this week, with over 100 EMTs, paramedics and volunteers from across the country being recognized for the important work they do. Two of the 150 families who were helped last year attended the event, to thank the staff in person. 

Yonat Daskal-Dagan opened the evening by thanking all those who made it possible for MDA to provide the Wish Ambulance service. "Thanks to you, we managed to provide 150 wishes in the past year. The new ambulance that we dedicated this year is equipped with the most advanced medical kit, that helps us do this special mission." 

Tamir Tirosh, whose son Amit was granted his wish to visit the north of Israel with his wife and newborn child just three days before he died, told Amit's story, and the fact that without the Wish Ambulance, there is no way the family could fulfil his final dream. "As a family we have no words to thank you, for all you do, for your patience. I thank you, and I'm sure Amit thanks you too." 

Omri, who at 4 years old was battling leukemia, had his wish granted where he met a children's TV personality, had a ride in the MDA helicopter, and on the MDA boat in the Kinneret. After his father Liran spoke on stage, Omri took the microphone and to a large round of applause, made the closing remarks: "Thank you for everything you did for me when I used to be sick!" 

The new Wish Ambulance was donated by friends in Melbourne, Australia. Magen David Adom Australia Chairperson, Glynis Lipson, sent a recorded video. "We are very proud of the part we play in the Wish Ambulance. Schools across Victoria were excited to support the project, and enabled us to help MDA, and make wishes come true for patients who are really ill. To all the volunteers who work on the Wish Ambulance, sincere thank you for all that you do to make these patients' lives easier. Thank you to all our donors who help make these dreams a reality." 

MDA Director General Eli Bin: "Thank you for that you do to make these patients' difficult times more pleasant, and for helping their families. You are full of compassion and honor, and we are very proud of you." 

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The Wish Ambulance is a Magen David Adom project that allows people suffering from serious or terminal illness with mobility issues, to fulfil wishes while under close medical supervision. Wishes have included attending family events, visiting tourist or nature sites, sports events, visiting religious sites and events, or other social events. The ambulance and equipment are designed to allow maximum access in a specialized wheel chair and bed, and there is also a camera for the patient to be able to see where they are travelling. 

It is a free service. Contact the Wish Ambulance team in Israel on 1-800-600-101