Seriously Wounded in Jenin, a Soldier’s Remarkable Recovery is Celebrated at Rambam

Critically injured in a clash in Jenin, Staff Sergeant Yonatan Ron was airlifted to Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel, for treatment. Despite his injuries, he is optimistic, and his recent discharge was a celebration.

Celebrating Staff Sergeant Yonatan Ron’s discharge. Photography: Rambam HCC

Staff Sergeant Ron, a soldier serving in MAGAV, Israel’s border police, sustained severe limb injuries in Jenin when a 50kg explosive was detonated, hitting the armored vehicle he was traveling in. The explosion caused his helmet to be blown off his head, and it was severely damaged. Nevertheless, the injuries he sustained were mainly to his limbs. Tragically, a comrade, Sergeant Shai Dramai, lost her life in the incident. May her memory be blessed.

While his unit was under fire, he was rescued and airlifted by helicopter to Rambam – the only Level-1 trauma center in Northern Israel, and also equipped to handle the most complicated cases nationwide. Treated in various hospital departments, Staff Sergeant Ron underwent multiple surgeries, including the amputation of his right lower leg and many

hours of physical therapy.

Throughout his hospitalization, with his family at his bedside, Staff Sergeant Ron remained optimistic and determined to return to his usual routine. His charm and resolve left an indelible mark on the medical team and everyone around him. Despite the long journey ahead, he is firm about ‘reaching for the stars’ and intends to participate in a marathon someday! At the celebration marking his discharge, Staff Sergeant Ron thanked the Rambam Family for their care and commitment, and his mother, Limor, echoed his sentiments.

Yonatan’s story is a testament to the spirit of our brave soldiers serving on the frontlines. Join us in saluting him for his courage and resilience. We wish him a speedy and complete recovery.

Watch a short video that tells his story: