Written by Margalit Peretz, chavruta of Shelly Shem Tov. The unique bond they’ve built through our programming for hostage families has become a source of strength, hope, and inspiration for both women.
Shelly Shem Tov is the mother of Omer, a hostage still held in Gaza. She is also my chavruta, my friend, and my hero.
She recently faced the unthinkable: celebrating Omer’s Hebrew and secular birthdays while he remains in captivity.
When I asked Shelly how she planned to mark these days, her response was a deep sigh of pain. Her voice carried the weight of her torment, and her cries were heartbreaking. No one would believe she was the same woman I spoke with that evening—strong, faithful, and resolute in her mission to do good.
As her chavruta and friend, I felt compelled to offer comfort. I encouraged her to go to the beach and cry to Hashem with the same raw emotion she had shared with me. She took my advice and later sent me a picture of herself standing by the sea holding Omer’s photo. She looked more at peace after her conversation with Hashem.
I also reminded her that Omer needs her strength and positivity. We have to be a source to uplift him. I don’t know if my words resonated, but what Shelly did next left me in awe.
On Omer’s secular birthday, Shelly entered his room clapping and singing “Happy Birthday.” She got into her car and blasted music, and that evening, she hosted a celebration in Herzliya. There, she stood before the crowd, radiating positivity and encouraging everyone to sing for Omer. She was determined to spread positive energy, and I have no doubt that her son must have felt it.
Shelly decided to do something meaningful and holy for Omer’s Hebrew birthday. She gathered friends and family for an inspiring evening with Israeli musician Aviv Alush, who gave chizuk and spoke about emunah. We all left feeling stronger and with a clearer idea of how we can help bring Omer home.
I later asked her how she was going to spend her Hebrew birthday. She confidently told me, “We’re going to do good! We’re going to distribute food to soldiers recovering from their injuries.”
I joined her at the hospital and was in awe. Shelly’s warmth lit up every room she entered. She showered each soldier with love. Their faces lit up when they spoke with her, and she told each one that they are our heroes.
Shelly taught me a profound life lesson: no matter how difficult life becomes, there is always a way to find light and use it to uplift others.
Shelly Shem Tov is a beacon of strength, faith, and love. She has become my greatest inspiration and one of my dearest friends.
Click here to learn more about Kesher Yehudi’s programming for hostage families.
