Tributes

Dear Shlomit,

My name is Daniella Flax, I attended Midreshet Harova this year. I volunteered at Aleh every Tuesday afternoon. I worked with Nechama and was privileged to give special attention to Hodaya.

I have no words to describe how much working at Aleh taught me. I returned to South Africa this week and have been raving to people about the outstanding work that Aleh does. I didn't realize just how much I was gaining by volunteering at Aleh, however on my last Tuesday at Aleh before I was leaving to return home, I was overcome with sadness. I could not bring myself to say goodbye to all the special people that work there, especially to Ariella and Nechama who I was fortunate to meet and work with. Saying goodbye to Hodaya was even worse. I never thought that a girl who doesn't speak and often doesn't acknowledge my presence could have such an impact on me. Well, I was so wrong, Hodaya impacted on my life in so many ways and made me appreciate everything I have been blessed with.

I have decided to study speech and hearing therapy this year in South Africa. If it is possible I would greatly appreciate it if you or Ariella could send me a letter for the university stating that I volunteered at Aleh and saw the amazing wok and therapies that Aleh offer.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to volunteer in such a special place. I will truly miss being there, but b'ezrat Hashem I will come back some day!

Daniella Flax