As I write to you from Jerusalem, our AJMA Ilene Serlin z”l 2025 Trauma Mission for Psychologists is still underway—though in a form none of us could have anticipated. The mission was originally scheduled for June 17–24, but with eight of us already on the ground when Israel launched a protective preemptive strike on Iran on June 12, we were suddenly faced with a difficult decision. Inspired by the extraordinary courage and commitment of our participants and the enduring vision of Dr. Ilene Serlin z”l, we chose to go forward—adapting our plans while remaining deeply rooted in purpose and solidarity.
Though our itinerary changed significantly, the spirit of the mission has remained strong. Each day has been filled with deeply moving sessions and remarkable speakers—many of whom came to meet with us in person, despite the ongoing uncertainty and risk. Others joined via Zoom, offering their insights and innovative approaches to trauma care. While we could no longer visit trauma centers and hospitals across Israel, we brought the learning to us, creating powerful moments of connection and growth.
As you can imagine, the past days have included daily sirens and alerts. We’ve spent considerable time together in the hotel’s safe room, huddled not only with each other, but also with many other guests—Israelis and international visitors alike. These moments have been tense, surreal, and unforgettable. But they’ve also offered something more: the chance to reflect, to process together, and to find meaning amid the disorientation of conflict.
During one of our group processing sessions, I found myself thinking about the symbolism of the safe room. With its thick concrete walls, heavy steel door, reinforced windows, and lack of outward exposure, it is a place designed purely for protection. But it’s also a space of gathering, of stillness, of human connection in times of fear and uncertainty. It struck me that this space is more than physical—it’s also metaphorical.
In many ways, this is what the AJMA seeks to be: a sheltering, empowering community for Jewish healthcare professionals. The AJMA was born in response to hostility and exclusion—attacks from our professional neighbors that left many feeling isolated or unprotected. Just as the safe room enables Israelis to carry on with life despite surrounding threats, our work at AJMA creates a stronghold of connection, resources, and resilience for Jewish professionals navigating a complex world.
I am deeply proud to be part of building this protective space—a space where we stand together, uplift each other, and grow stronger through shared purpose and values.
Am Yisrael Chai!
With warmth and gratitude,
Michelle