A Ceremony of Hope: Brit Milah for a 7-Month-Old at Schneider Children’s During the War

The baby, seven months old, was born with a rare congenital condition affecting the esophagus (esophageal atresia) and is was hospitalized at Schneider Children’s in preparation for a planned surgery.

His parents, who had been waiting eagerly for the opportunity to hold a Brit Milah, asked the medical team for help arranging the ceremony inside the department. The staff responded immediately, coordinated all necessary logistics, and made preparations for what became an especially moving event for the family, patients, and care team alike.

Ariel’s mother shared:

“It was incredibly moving, and everything came together at the very last minute. We weren’t sure we’d be able to have a Brit at all, and we were afraid it would have to wait for months. Luckily, the doctors confirmed he was well enough, and thanks to the amazing teamwork in the department, we made it happen. Everyone felt part of it – there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. We were also really anxious about how he’d handle it, but thank God, everything went smoothly.”

Dr. Dragan Kravarusic, Director of Surgery Department at Schneider Children’s, emphasized:

“Even in challenging times – both personal and national – we do everything we can to provide hospitalized children and their families with moments of hope, joy, and a sense of normalcy.”

The baby’s name in Israel is Ariel.