Rahel’s Family

Rahel’s life has been marked by tremendous tragedy and remarkable courage. Throughout her 91 years, she has lost family and loved ones to war, poverty and disease.  She has witnessed the Stalinist purges, the pogroms and the devastation of the German bombers.

During World War II, Rahel fell in love with a young Jewish man who lost his entire family in the Holocaust. He joined the army and was wounded.  Disfigured, he tried to end their relationship.  She convinced him that his disfigurement meant nothing to her.  They married, and they lived happily until he died at the young age of 42.  One of Rahel’s two surviving sisters suffered from nephritis.  When she could no longer take care of herself, Rahel welcomed her into her home and cared for her until she died.  Two years later, Rahel married for a second time.  Her husband developed multiple sclerosis; Rahel nursed him with devotion until his death.

Today, Rahel lives alone in Minsk.  She herself is now disabled and relies on Hesed V’ Rahamim’s home care and meals-on-wheels services.  Hesed volunteers treat her with deference, offering her tenderness and love.  Most important, they have given her the spiritual support she so desperately needed.  Hesed activities help her recall the warm memories of her childhood.  When she lights Shabbat candles or joins in celebrating the Jewish festivals, she remembers her mother’s love, her father’s sage words and her sister’s confidences.

The Minsk Hesed is Rahel’s family today.