A modern UKR-AED automated external defibrillator has been installed at the Golden Rose Central Synagogue to provide emergency assistance to those suffering sudden cardiac arrest. This important donation, which enhances safety for congregants, was made by Shmuel Katzev, a respected member of the Dnipro Jewish Community, on behalf of the family of Mark (Mordechai) Gorodetsky, of blessed memory, to perpetuate his memory and honor his legacy.
The UKR-AED is designed for safe use, even by those without medical training. The device provides voice instructions and guides the person providing assistance step by step. The defibrillator is located near the side staircase leading to the women’s hall, next to the first aid area, which was previously donated by Shmuel Katzev. Operation of the entire complex is overseen by the JMC Clinic.
“In many countries around the world, the presence of an automatic defibrillator in a public place has long been perceived as a natural element of a modern security system,” notes JMC CEO, MD, Professor Alexander Rodinsky. “In Ukraine, this practice has not yet become widespread, but someone has to be the first, or one of the first. The most important thing is that the Central Synagogue now has a device that can give a person a chance at salvation in a critical situation.”
The spiritual significance of this gift is particularly significant. The defibrillator was donated by Shmuel Katzev in memory of his father-in-law on behalf of the entire family of Mark (Mordechai) Gorodetsky, one of the pioneers of Jewish revival in Dnipro. The inscription on the device emphasizes that the donation was made by Mark Gorodetsky’s wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, with the wish that, by saving lives, it would serve to perpetuate the memory of a remarkable man and help increase his achievements and uplift his soul.
The center’s surgical department, which operates 24/7, including Shabbat, will be responsible for the technical readiness and medical supervision of the defibrillator. Thus, the device has become part of the synagogue’s existing first aid system and simultaneously takes it to a new level.
“We are sincerely grateful to Shmuel Katzev and his entire family for this wonderful and very important gift, especially since it is not the first, and Mr. Katzev provides significant medical assistance to many communities far beyond our own,” emphasizes Professor Alexander Rodinsky. “Here, the memory of a person, charity, and the opportunity to save a life in the future are wonderfully combined, fulfilling the commandment of pikuach nefesh. Caring for the life, health, and safety of every person is one of the most important Jewish values and one of the top priorities of the united and cohesive Jewish Community of Dnipro, under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki.”
