The Danieli Award, named in honor of the late Danieli Sonnenfeld, is a unique prize in medicine. Rather than being given for scientific breakthroughs or research discoveries, the Danieli Award is granted to special doctors and nurses in recognition of their humane approach and dedication to patients and their families. It is awarded based on the recommendations of the patients’ families who are gathered by the Danieli fund representatives at various clinics and medical centers.
This year, two members of Sheba’s Pediatric Hemato-Oncology Department were honored with this award – Dr. Yoram Neumann, Deputy Head of the Pediatric Hemato-Oncology Department, and nurse Gili Gilat. The exciting ceremony was held at the President’s Residence with many dignitaries in attendance, including President Reuven Rivlin, Minister of Health, Rabbi Yaakov Litzman, Minister of Justice, Ayelet Shaked, Minister of Education, Naftali Bennett, Minister of Immigrant Absorption Ze’ev Elkin, hospital directors and members of the prize committee.
Danieli Sonnenfeld was a volunteer at the Pediatric Oncology Department at Schneider Hospital and tragically died in a car accident on her way home from volunteering. To many, Danieli was an inspiration and a prime example of generosity and empathy for cancer patients.
Her parents resolved to establish a fund in Danieli’s memory and award an annual prize to medical staff who best reflect her values. Gili Gilat stated, “I have the utmost admiration for children and parents, who, dealing with a harsh reality, are still able to find a word of encouragement for others. I think it’s the greatest reward a therapist can receive.” Dr. Yoram Neumann said, “When establishing the relationship between physicians and patients, my goal is to create trust between a doctor and a patient. It’s especially crucial in the profession in which I am engaged. The doctor must be the first addressee for every issue and question the patient has.”
