Keith Siegel's Journey to Freedom: A Path to Healing
Tax deductible
We are overjoyed that after 484 harrowing days in captivity, Keith Siegel, a 65-year-old American-Israeli, is set to be released on February 1, 2025. Keith was abducted from his home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the tragic events of October 7, 2023. His wife, Aviva, was also taken but was released in November 2023. Since then, Keith has endured unimaginable hardships, including broken ribs and prolonged confinement.
Throughout their captivity, Keith remained a pillar of strength and hope. He encouraged fellow hostages to stay positive, often asking them to share something uplifting from their day. Aviva recalls, "When I needed him to hold my hand, he held my hand; if I needed him to take me to the bathroom, he walked with me to the bathroom. He was with me 100%." In an act of profound love and sacrifice, Keith chose not to disclose his U.S. citizenship, fearing that he might be released while leaving Aviva behind. As Aviva says, "Now I'm out, and Keith is still there."
Keith is a devoted father of four and a grandfather to five. Originally from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, he made Aliyah to Israel at the age of 21. An occupational therapist by profession, Keith is known for his love of American pancakes and his unwavering dedication to his family.
While we celebrate his imminent release, we recognize that the journey to recovery will be long and challenging. Keith and his family will require extensive medical care, psychological support, and assistance to rebuild their life after such a prolonged ordeal. Additionally, during Keith's captivity, Keith's mother passed away, adding to the emotional toll he must bear.
We are reaching out to our community to rally around Keith and his family during this critical time. Your generous contributions will directly support:
- Medical Expenses: Comprehensive healthcare to address physical injuries and ongoing health concerns.
- Therapeutic Support: Professional counseling to help Keith and his family navigate the psychological impacts of captivity and loss.
- Reintegration Assistance: Resources to help Keith return to daily life, including therapy and other necessary services.
Who We Are:
We are close friends of the Siegel family, based in Israel, committed to supporting Keith and his loved ones during this challenging time.
Our Relationship to the Siegel Family:
As longtime friends, we have shared countless moments with Keith and his family, witnessing firsthand their strength, love, and resilience.
How Funds Will Be Managed:
All donations collected through this GoFundMe campaign will be transferred to Chabad of Lamorinda, a U.S.-based non-profit organization located in Lafayette, California. Chabad of Lamorinda has graciously agreed to assist in facilitating the transfer of these funds directly to the Siegel family to cover the expenses outlined above.
Your donation is also tax-deductible.
We are in constant communication with both Chabad of Lamorinda and the Siegel family to ensure that the funds are utilized effectively to meet their immediate and long-term needs.
Your support, whether through a donation or by sharing this campaign, will make a profound difference in Keith's journey to healing. Together, we can help restore hope and normalcy to a family that has endured so much.
From the depths of our hearts, we thank you for standing with Keith and his family during this time.
With gratitude,
Friends of The Siegel Family
For more information on Keith's story, please see the following articles:
Organizer
Inbal RL
Organizer
Lafayette, CA
Chabad of Lamorinda
Beneficiary