The Next Step: Leaving the US

When I landed in America last September 10th, I was coming for a 9 day trip to visit my parents during the Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashana. I was so excited for this visit, because me and my parents were getting along really well after sometime of awkwardness and we were as close as ever. I would never in a million years had guessed that there would be a horrible accident that would leave me badly injured and without parents.

For the last 5 months I have been in New Jersey slowly recovering from my injuries, both mentally and physically. I have undergone multiple surgeries and months of physical and occupational therapy. Throughout this time I have been surrounded by amazing, caring and loving people. My aunt and uncle have stepped up to help guide me through the medical and legal issues surrounding the accident. My parents friends have been a constant source of support and friendship. My life long friends have been by my side to help me with anything I could need. Two friends in particular opened up their home to me and allowed me to live with them over the last few months.

I have also met many new and wonderful people that helped me and forever left their mark on my life. Many members of the online community of formerly religious Jews made the effort to come visit me in this hospital and the rehab center. Today I am lucky enough to consider these people real friends. There is also my friend David who has been a source of happiness and companionship and his wonderful family that warmly welcomed me into their home.

I do not know how I would have gotten through this hard period of my life without all these people. I  can never find the words to express my gratitude to everyone, but suffice it to say that I am eternally grateful.

Now it is time for me to move on. My recovery has progressed to the point that I am ready to return to Israel where there is a whole new set of challenges waiting for me. I am extremely apprehensive about going back, but I know that this is the necessary next step on my path to find happiness. And while I am leaving the wonderful people that were so supportive of me while I was here in New Jersey, I will soon have my dear friends in Israel to help me through the next chapter.