Eden Association Hosts Israel’s First Lady
May 14, 2026
Dear CHW supporters,
Last week, we had the honor of hosting Israel’s First Lady, Mrs. Michal Herzog, at the Eden 51 Center in Kibbutz Dorot. The visit focused on the “HERSTORY” documentation project, an initiative launched just weeks after October 7. The project stems from the understanding that in our current reality, women are serving on both the front lines and the home front, carrying stories and experiences that are essential to the public discourse.
At the beginning of the visit, Ronit Shoval (MSW), CEO of the Eden Association, presented the organization’s work and the Eden Model. This clinical framework for treating trauma and Complex PTSD integrates research-based theories with practical tools to create safe, trauma-informed spaces that support recovery for women and girls.
The heart of the visit was an intimate conversation with six women who shared their testimonies as part of the project. These women have served on various fronts since October 7 within the security and medical forces, with some remaining on active reserve duty today. These courageous women shared their unique perspectives and the role that the “HERSTORY” project and their connection with the Eden Association have played in their personal healing process.
Major M. shared that when she was first invited to participate, she didn’t feel her story was “special.” Through the documentation process, she was able to pause and recognize the magnitude of the events she experienced and the weight of the responsibility she carried.
M., a reservist who served as an X-ray technician, described unimaginable moments working with the fallen. She shared that amidst the harsh reality, it was vital for her to approach each person with dignity, gently whispering: “You were a hero of Israel.” Even in a space of loss, she sought to preserve humanity and compassion.
G., a reservist in the Home Front Command’s Search and Rescue unit, shared that the process of documentation itself became a vital part of her recovery, a way to find words for what had been held inside.
Captain H. shared that for months, she couldn’t speak to anyone about her experiences. Participating in the project marked the first time she felt able to share these experiences with her family, a significant step in her journey of coping with the pain.
Throughout the discussion, the themes of Recognition, Space, and Connection emerged repeatedly. The participants spoke about the value of being in a supportive environment where they are understood without the need for constant explanation. This shared experience quickly built a sense of “sisterhood” based on mutual trust and deep listening.
The participants also highlighted the sensitivity of the project’s professional team, noting that each woman was truly seen as a whole person with a unique life story, strength, and hope for the future.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the “HERSTORY” exhibition, led by curator Nurit Tal-Tenne. The exhibition provides an artistic expression of the testimonies of women from the security and medical forces on the front lines.
For all of us at the Eden Association, this visit was a profound moment of recognition, not only for the project but for the importance of creating protected spaces where women can process their experiences and begin to rebuild lives of meaning and hope.
We are grateful for the privilege of accompanying these brave women on their journey and for your partnership, which allows us to continue providing a safe haven for listening, recognition, and healing.
The exhibition is currently on display at the Eden 51 Center in Kibbutz Dorot.
Sincerely,
Eden Team
Learn more about Eden Association by clicking here. Read more about HERSTORY in the Winter 2026 issue of ORAH Magazine.
