On my last trip to the South, I was fortunate to meet with incredibly inspiring Esther Marcus (nee Blau) at the Resilience Center of Sdot Negev.
Her journey, marked by personal loss and unwavering dedication, provides a profound example of strength and commitment to her community. I asked her permission to share her story, her contributions and the indomitable spirit that defines her.
Esther, who is originally from London, made Aliyah in 1984 at the age of 19. She studied social and community work at Hebrew University and went on to serve as a mental health officer in the IDF for two and a half years. After marrying Stevie, they moved to Kibbutz Alumim in southern Israel, where they raised their four children.
Esther has dedicated her life to helping others. She worked with children and adults in the Shaar Hanegev regional council, helping them adapt to social changes, personal tragedies, and the reality of regular rocket attacks. She worked with female victims of sexual abuse at Maslan, a rape crisis center in Be’er Sheva, and provided both individual and group therapy at a boarding school for female teenagers in Kibbutz Saad.. She also runs drama groups, and writes and directs school plays. In 2009, she authored "Colour Red", a children's book that helps kids understand and cope with rocket attacks. Her expertise and practical experience has been instrumental in supporting individuals and families dealing with trauma for decades.
The Events of October 7
October 7 began like any other day, but soon, the community of Alumim was thrust into chaos. During the 27 long hours that Esther was hiding in a safe room, she was also providing immediate support to those affected. From the very beginning of the attack, Esther started coordinating efforts and ensuring that help reached those in need.
Esther's ability to lead in times of crisis is a testament to her character. On October 7, she juggled multiple roles, from providing immediate psychological support to managing logistical challenges. Her calm demeanor and clear-headedness were critical in stabilizing the situation and offering hope to those around her.
Her husband, Stevie Marcus, managed the foreign workers in their community. He played a crucial role in ensuring their safety during the crisis. His quick thinking and leadership saved many lives.
Esther and Stevie, along with other members of Kibbutz Alumim, were evacuated to Netanya in central Israel. Stevie frequently traveled south to tend to the kibbutz’s 700 cows. "Stevie was a rock for so many, always putting others before himself,” Esther recalls with a smile. “His dedication and bravery during the evacuation were extraordinary.” Just one month after the events, Stevie succumbed to a heart attack at age 62. This loss was a profound blow to Esther, and for the entire community. It also fueled her resolve to continue her work, and her husband’s legacy, with even greater determination.
Continuing the Mission
Esther is the professional leader of the Sdot Negev Resilience Center, providing therapy and support to individuals and families affected by the ongoing conflict. Her leadership has been instrumental in implementing programs that address the ongoing psychological needs of children and families affected by the trauma.
Esther’s approach is holistic. "Art therapy, drama therapy, and other creative outlets are essential for helping children express their emotions and building resilience" she explains. The center also works on creating safe spaces and fostering strong attachments between adults and children to help mitigate trauma. She believes in empowering parents and teachers, recognizing their crucial role in providing stability and security for children.
Looking ahead, Esther hopes to expand the Resilience Center’s reach and resources. She envisions a future where the Center can offer more comprehensive support for expression and healing. Esther is committed to continuing her work, driven by the hope that her efforts will help build a stronger, more resilient community.
Esther is still displaced, traveling back and forth between Netanya where the kibbutz members are currently living, and her daughter's house. She shares: "It's a challenging time, living between places, but staying connected to family and community gives me strength." Her personal experience with trauma has deepened her understanding and empathy for those she serves. Losing her husband, who was a pillar of strength in her life, brought her face-to-face with profound grief. Yet she has channeled this pain into her work, using her story to connect with others and inspire resilience.
Esther Marcus's story is one of courage and unwavering commitment. Her resilience in the face of personal tragedy coupled with her dedication to serving her community highlight the profound impact one individual can have. She embodies the spirit of hope and strength, inspiring all who know her to face challenges with courage and compassion.
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