Yihya Nasser, an MDA EMT from Kiryat Shmona, responds to calls not only when he is on an ambulance shift, but even when off duty as a first responder. Since October 7, as rocket fire continues on a daily basis across the north, Yihya has responded to innumerable reports of rocket strikes in his region
“I’ve been volunteering with Magen David Adom for only three years, but I have been involved in many incidents, especially over the past year,” said Yihya. He is married and a father of three, whose family has been evacuated from the region since the beginning of the war. “It’s sometimes tough for my family when I go out on emergency calls, but they know that saving lives is in my blood.”
Yihya is yet another example of many other MDA volunteers, where despite the war people are not leaving the organization – the opposite is true. Many are looking to take on more responsibilities, or additional shifts. “The town might be empty, but there are still calls in the region all the time. I’ve treated patients under fire in Kibbutz Dan, Beit Hillel, Kfar Blum, and of course here in Kiryat Shmona too. I’m here to make sure we can provide help to anyone who needs it, no matter how complex the challenge might be.”
The optimism that Yihya shows, despite the past 11 months, is extremely impressive. He asks to end the interview with a message for all Israelis: “My message is for everyone to stay strong. I’m here to help care for you. We will win together, and there will be peace!”
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