As human beings, we have natural fear of helplessness. We make every effort to know our rights and protect them if necessary. Although we manage just fine most of our lives, there are specific situations that render nearly anyone helpless

Being ill in a hospital is a typical example. Physical weakness makes it difficult to fight for one’s rights, and even when patients try to assert themselves, many can’t articulate their needs well enough. Left with no choice, they suffer in silence.

At Yad Ephraim, we consider this unacceptable. It is difficult and disorienting enough to spend time in a hospital, often in pain; there is no reason to suffer unnecessary hardships. Yad Ephraim is the patients’ “intervention team”! If a patient is assigned a wrong room or a difficult roommate, we work with the hospital administration to get the patient transferred to a more appropriate room. Our rapport with the staff and the mutual respect we have for each other enables us to achieve what others can’t. 

For patients and families waiting in an emergency room, the experience can be a nightmare. Stuck in an unfamiliar setting, with doctors and nurses whizzing by constantly, these patients feel lost and confused. Our volunteers check in at the emergency room throughout the day and night, to see whether anyone needs help. We ensure that patients get serviced as quickly as possible, and make them comfortable in the meantime

If you’ve ever spent time in a hospital either as a patient or with a loved one, you know how vital our “intervention program” is. Help us keep it going. Click here to support Yad Ephraim