Making Dreams Come True: MDA Grants a Wish for 5-Year-Old Li-On
Not every ambulance trip is about saving a life, sometimes, the mission is simply to bring a smile to a child's face. That is the core purpose of Magen David Adom’s Wish Ambulance. For the past two years, five-year-old Li-On Smolianizky has been battling a rare medical condition, enduring a long and exhausting series of complex treatments. He and his family have spent countless days traveling between hospitals and medical centers, both in Israel and abroad, on a grueling journey toward recovery. After recently returning home from a month and a half of intensive treatments in Austria, MDA decided it was time to give Li-On and his family a much-needed day of joy and comfort. Joining forces with the Israeli Navy base in Ashdod, the MDA Wish Ambulance team created a special, unforgettable experience tailored just for him.
Magen David Adom’s Wish Ambulance is a volunteer-driven project dedicated to fulfilling the dreams of individuals facing severe or terminal illnesses. Equipped with specialized medical equipment and staffed by attentive healthcare professionals, the ambulance provides patients with safe transport to any location, ensuring continuous medical care every step of the way. For Li-On’s special day, the team crafted a custom itinerary centered around making his dream come true. Wish Ambulance paramedic Hila and driver Amit picked up Li-On and his parents from their home, setting off for the Ashdod Naval Base. Upon arrival, they were greeted with a formal salute from the base commander, Capt. A., and Master Sgt. N., kicking off an extraordinary, memorable visit.
The service members gave Li-On a hands-on tour of the base and shared insights into their mission, leading up to the highlight of the day: heading out into open waters aboard a Shaldag-class fast patrol craft alongside naval combat sailors.
Upon returning to shore, Li-On was greeted with a table packed with gifts and surprises, generously provided by Bank Yahav.
The Wish Ambulance crew shared an emotional reflection on the day: "Dear Li-On, it was a true honor to be by your side today. You are a real hero. We wish you health, strength, and endless joy."
Photos: Courtesy of the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit
