David’s Circle: A New Chapter in Trauma Care for Israelis Affected by PTSD.

In the year since October 7th, we’ve recognized the lasting trauma many Israelis have endured. PTSD has impacted thousands, including survivors of Nova, where loss and fear have left emotional wounds that don’t easily heal. CFO David Gani recalls meeting Bucky’s brother-in-law, Yoni, a social worker who introduced them to Yael Shoshani Rom.

 “[Yoni] first introduced us to Yael Shoshani Rom, a trauma specialist. It turns out that thousands of Israelis were traveling to Thailand and Yael was planning to open some sort of healing center there. I was skeptical about us getting involved, but then Yael took us to Adama Tova.”

Yael had noticed a trend—many Israelis coping with PTSD, including Nova survivors, were traveling to Thailand in search of respite; their lives in Israel had become filled with constant triggers. She envisioned a therapeutic center where these individuals could find a support system and a place to heal. After visiting Adama Tova, a therapy center working with Nova survivors, we witnessed firsthand the profound need for accessible trauma recovery resources. It was a moment of understanding that spurred the team into action.

The concept became clear: David’s Circle, a healing center in Thailand designed to provide a safe space for Israeli trauma survivors to process, recover, and find community.

From Concept to Reality: A Healing Center for PTSD

David Gani undertook an extensive assessment of establishing the center in Thailand, exploring its long-term viability and how it could meet the unique needs of Israelis abroad. Meanwhile, our COO, Ike Bodner, constructed a detailed plan to bring this idea to life—a critical path forward that balanced logistics, timing, and resources.

By October 7th, 2024, David’s Circle officially opened its doors to the public on the tranquil island of Koh Phangan, Thailand, under the experienced guidance of Yael and IDF social worker Segev Shalom. This serene setting offers an ideal backdrop for healing, away from the pressures and triggers back home. The center is more than a clinic; it’s a haven designed to help trauma survivors process their experiences, reconnect with themselves, and build supportive relationships with others who understand their journey.

On their opening night, marking a year since the tragic events, David’s Circle hosted a gathering for Nova survivors and others in Thailand. In just one month of operation, the center has already provided support to dozens of young Israelis, and by December, we aim to expand capacity to welcome 150 individuals each month.

David’s Circle is a testament to our belief that healing knows no borders and that sometimes, the journey to recovery requires going beyond familiar places. Thank you for being a part of this mission, and for supporting us in creating a space where healing can truly begin.

Together, we’ll keep building.