On a flying visit to London at the end of November, board members and donors of Magen David Adom UK had the honour to meet the President of Israel, Reuven Rivlin in an intimate gathering in London.

The President discussed the various ongoing projects that MDA UK is currently supporting and was given an update on fundraising efforts for the new National Blood and Logistics Centre in Ramla.

President Rivlin reiterated his acknowledgement of the outstanding work of MDA, making special mention of the values and ethos that run through the organisation. As he furthers his own plans for a more socially cohesive society, he lauded MDA as a beacon for the good that is brought by diversity and inclusivity. This was echoed with the gift presented to the President, a specially commissioned photo book highlighting the varied people and backgrounds that make up MDA today.

An audience with the President

President Rivlin also underlined the courage of all the medics, paramedics and 22,000 volunteers, no matter what the situation. It was clear that Magen David Adom is an organisation close to President Rivlin’s heart. He even told MDA UK supporters that, in Israel, there are two sets of three letters that keep the country safe. One being ‘I.D.F.’ and the other, ‘M.D.A.’

As well as incoming MDA UK Chair, Russell Jacobs, Chief Executive, Daniel Burger and numerous board members and donors, Eli Bin, the Director General of Magen David Adom in Israel, was also present. Bin had been in Paris the night before for a local fundraising event and travelled to London en route back to Israel.

President Rivlin closed the meeting by personally thanking Magen David Adom UK’s staff, lay leadership and donors for their hard work and dedication. The President commented that, without this support, Magen David Adom would not be able to save lives across the length and breadth of Israel.