Arnon Segal is the altruistic kidney donor for my husband Ilan, and some of the responses to the article published here Wednesday have deeply saddened us. We found ourselves in a storm. Instead of focusing on the healing process of this complex journey - we still have a long way to go - we were exposed to slander and harsh criticism toward Arnon. Although we were not mentioned in this context, we feel that the impact is also on us.
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The main concern is primarily about the headline that emphasized the notion of donating to Jews only. Such reporting could have been approached differently, in a unifying and respectful manner, rather than using the sentence as it was formulated. We had many conversations with Arnon during the hospitalization, and from those conversations, I gathered that he had no intention to harm anyone.
We also didn't know him before, and we are not among his readers (although it seems we will start now). He performed this noble act and donated his kidney to us without knowing our political opinions, just as he didn't know our preferences on any other topic. That is what should be emphasized: the great act, which is entirely good.
I assume not everyone is familiar with the daily routine of a dialysis patient or aware of the daily hardships experienced by kidney patients. As someone who accompanies Ilan, I can testify to the suffering, pain and difficulties they endure in exhausting and draining treatments, three times a week, four hours each time. And that's before we even discuss the significant risks involved.
This week, in the transplant department at Beilinson Hospital, we witnessed a resident of Kibbutz Merav who donated to a sick teenager, and a young man from Elkana who donated to a stranger. There are many more. What do all these donors have in common? A good heart, a unique personality, and a lot of kindness. What else? We cannot ignore the fact that the overwhelming majority of them wear kippahs. Of course, there are also donors from other sectors, but they were the minority.
Our concern regarding the reports about Arnon's donation and the subsequent reactions is that it will negatively impact patients. Such sharp public criticism can deter donors, and those who will pay the price are the ones for whom organ donation is a lifeline and salvation, those who want to continue living.
Instead of criticizing, it is desirable to engage in a dialogue that encourages organ donation, so that donors come from all sectors, regardless of religion, race or gender, thereby increasing mutual support and assistance for everyone. We cannot ignore the natural tendency and desire of people to prioritize their loved ones, in their family, national or religious circles.
Smadar AssoulineThe exposure here has not been easy for us. Initially, we hesitated, but after careful consideration, we decided that everything that can support and encourage donation is important. And this is our small contribution.
So, Arnon, Maayan and your dear children, all of you who have chosen to sacrifice for the greater cause - what we simply need to say to all of you is "thank you." To you and to the "Matnat Chayim" organization. We wish everyone good health. May no one ever need a kidney donation, but if, God forbid, it is necessary, we are fortunate to have people like Arnon.