Jerusalem - Every day for Rachel Goldberg-Polin is a countdown marked by sorrow and hope. Since October 7th, when her 23-year-old son, Hersh, was abducted from a music festival in Israel, she has transformed from a dedicated teacher and mother into a tenacious advocate, navigating the treacherous world of international diplomacy fueled by an unparalleled love and an unwavering mantra: "Survive."
The attack on the Tribe of Nova festival ripped through Rachel's life, leaving behind a void filled with unanswered questions and agonizing silence. Hersh, severely injured and captured by Hamas militants, vanished into the unknown depths of the Gaza Strip. "My son was stolen," she declares, her voice heavy with grief yet resolute.
The once warm home, filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies, became a command center for a global campaign. Rachel, alongside her husband Jon, morphed into strategists, meeting world leaders, addressing the United Nations, and tirelessly giving interviews, their faces becoming synonymous with the fight for their son's freedom.
Amidst the whirlwind of activity, Rachel grapples with the emotional maelstrom. Each day unfolds with the same torment, anticipation, and sorrow, punctuated by the agonizing reality of not knowing if her son is alive. "I need my son. I need my son. I need my son," she cries, her anguish echoing the collective pain of countless families trapped in the hostage crisis.
Despite the darkness, Rachel clings to hope. Each morning, she awakens before dawn, reciting psalms and scrolling through messages of support. With each sunrise, she dons a piece of masking tape with the day's number on her heart, a symbol of her unwavering faith and a silent plea for good news.
Rachel's fight transcends her own son. She champions the cause of all hostages, urging everyone to join the fight. Her social media presence explodes, garnering support from across the globe. Poems, songs, and artwork pour in, reminding her that she is not alone in this arduous journey.
In the quiet hours, Rachel seeks solace in communication with Hersh. Messages exchanged at the beginning of their ordeal become her comfort. "I love you. Stay strong. Survive," her mantra becomes a silent dialogue, fueling her strength.
While the present is shrouded in uncertainty, Rachel envisions a future brimming with joy. She conjures up images of Hersh's wedding, laughter filling the air as he holds his prosthetic arm high. The dream of holding his child gives her strength to face another day.
