During her second pregnancy, Liora Tannenbaum shared her breast cancer story with a colleague, sparking a connection that led to more open conversations about health struggles. This experience inspired Tannenbaum to become a peer supporter with Sharsheret, a Jewish nonprofit organization offering support to women facing breast and ovarian cancer.
Now, Tannenbaum is collaborating with Sharsheret to launch a pilot program in Israel, focusing on assisting English-speaking immigrants in navigating the healthcare system and accessing vital support services. CEO Elana Silber believes it is crucial to reach as many Jewish individuals as possible, especially in the U.S. and Israel, where the Jewish population is significant.
Established in 2001, Sharsheret provides a range of services, including connecting women with mental health professionals, genetic counselors, and peers with similar experiences. In Israel, the organization has invested in training local health counselors, forming support groups, and offering personalized care kits for women undergoing cancer treatment.
With a focus on the English-speaking community in Israel, Sharsheret aims to provide additional support beyond the country’s existing resources. Pnina Mor, an expert nurse midwife, is collaborating with Tannenbaum to establish and expand Sharsheret’s program in Israel, offering holistic care and guidance to women facing cancer.
The initiative in Israel comes at a time of heightened challenges, with women dealing with the dual stress of illness and security threats. Sharsheret’s presence aims to provide essential support and generate awareness about breast and ovarian cancer in the region.
For Tannenbaum, her personal experience with breast cancer and genetic testing led her to advocate for improved support networks in Israel. With the help of organizations like Sharsheret, women facing similar challenges can find the assistance and guidance they need during their health journey.
Liora Tannenbaum, an American immigrant to Israel from New Jersey, is helping build Sharsheret’s cancer support program in Israel. (Courtesy)
By providing a patient navigator and a network of support, Sharsheret aims to empower women facing cancer to make informed decisions and feel more in control of their health journey. The organization’s efforts in Israel seek to address the unique needs of English-speaking immigrants in the country.
With a focus on personalized care and support, Sharsheret’s program in Israel aims to fill a crucial gap in the healthcare system and provide a lifeline for women facing cancer. The dedication and commitment of individuals like Tannenbaum and Mor highlight the importance of community support in overcoming health challenges.
To access Sharsheret’s services in Israel and for more information, please visit https://sharsheret.org/israel/ or contact Sharsheret Israel Program Coordinators: Pnina Mor at pmor@sharsheret.org or Liora Tannenbaum at ltannenbaum@sharsheret.org.