“You Gave Us Hope”: A Heartfelt Moment at Our Aspen Event

Photo provided courtesy of American Friends of Magen David Adom.

In a heartfelt encounter at a recent gathering, Adi Ben-Ezra, Director of Major Gifts for American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA), shared a poignant connection with acclaimed author and journalist Douglas Murray during an onstage meeting. The moment transcended a typical introduction, revealing a deeply personal bond.

Ben-Ezra explained to Murray that during the harrowing period when her cousin, Agam Berger, was held captive in Gaza, Agam’s mother turned to Murray’s televised interviews for solace. His messages provided the family with a vital sense of hope amid their distress. “Your words gave us light in our darkest hours, and we are profoundly grateful,” she expressed.

This emotional exchange shaped the evening, which radiated with unity, bravery, and empathy. Nearly 400 attendees from across the country packed Chabad of Aspen for the venue’s most significant event to date, raising funds for Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s essential emergency response organization. The night featured Murray discussing his newest book, On Democracies and Death Cults: Israel and the Future of Civilization.

Drawing from his firsthand reporting in the Gaza conflict, Murray spoke candidly about the steadfast spirit of Israelis, particularly the youth who blend global cultural trends with a willingness to protect their homeland. “After October 7th, I met medics from all walks of life, heroically saving fellow Israelis without regard for profession, ethnicity, or faith—they simply acted to help,” he recounted.

Murray also offered an encouraging view, suggesting that support for Israel might be broader than the Jewish community perceives, lifting the audience’s spirits. The event showcased MDA’s inclusivity through the experiences of paramedic Ahmad Zeidan, from the Arab Israeli community, and volunteer EMT Ofir Ovadia, who is Jewish, working together to fulfill MDA’s life-saving mission.

After the program, attendees explored a unique jewelry collection by Yvel, led by Isaac Levy, who has initiated a new collaboration with MDA. A share of the proceeds from Yvel purchases will support the acquisition of a future ambulance.

For additional details about this memorable evening, reach out to Max Oberg at

Max@ColdSpark.com.

About American Friends of Magen David Adom

American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA) serves as the U.S. fundraising partner for Magen David Adom, Israel’s critical emergency medical service. AFMDA ensures that MDA’s 37,500 paramedics, EMTs, first responders, and volunteers are equipped with the necessary training, tools, and vehicles to protect lives in Israel and beyond. This diverse team, including Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Druze, Bedouin, and other ethnic groups, unites to aid every individual in need. Learn more at www.afmda.org.