Nova survivor shares story of loss and recovery, highlighting mental health support

Maayan Dee, a survivor of the Nova music festival massacre, shared a deeply personal account of her experience and the enduring impact of the October 7 Hamas-led attacks. Speaking at The Jerusalem Post's Annual Conference Gala in New York, Dee used the simple act of holding salt and pepper packets to symbolize the profound loss she and others have endured.

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Sivan didn’t just carry salt and pepper. She actually named them simcha v’osher, ‘joy and happiness.’

These packets represented her close friend, Sivan Sharabani, who was murdered at the festival. Dee recalled how Sharabani, whom she met while traveling after her IDF service, had a joyful outlook, naming the condiments "simcha v'osher," meaning "joy and happiness." This poignant detail underscored the stark contrast between the vibrant life lost and the devastating reality of the attack.

Dee's presentation highlighted the critical role of SafeHeart, an organization established to address the unique psychological challenges faced by survivors of the Nova festival and other music events targeted on October 7. Ori Schnitzer, SafeHeart Global Ambassador, explained that the organization provides essential trauma treatment, counseling, and support groups free of charge.

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SafeHeart was established in response to the music festival massacre of October 7, and today supports over 1,500 survivors every single month. SafeHeart walks with them through the darkest chapters of their young lives.

"It’s been nearly three years since October 7, but for so many, simply waking up and facing the day is still an uphill battle," Schnitzer stated. He emphasized that the PTSD experienced by survivors reshapes their lives permanently, illustrating the long-term need for mental health support. SafeHeart currently assists over 1,500 survivors monthly, walking with them through immense challenges.

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It’s been nearly three years since October 7, but for so many, simply waking up and facing the day is still an uphill battle. PTSD changes life not through a year or two, but it reshapes it forever.