The Michigan 10: How My Trip to Israel Changed My Life Forever

Pictured left to right at the Haas Promenade: Shellie Achtman, Amy Brody, Janice Traison, Diane Brody, Marcie Rosen, Allison Berlin. Photo courtesy of the author.

The author at the Western Wall. Photo courtesy of the author.

My Story: From the Beginning
Before I went to Israel, I identified as a cultural Reform Jew who supported Israel, but I lacked a deep understanding of its people, history and political complexities.

Growing up, my connection to Judaism was shaped by tradition rather than firsthand experience. Jewish holidays were always about the food, symbolic of course, served alongside a colorful cast of relatives, most of whom have since departed, leaving me with cherished memories, endless stories and a firm belief that some dishes, such as the green Jello in a fish mold, should have been laid to rest with them.

Once I had a family of my own, I began exploring Judaism more deeply. I made sure we attended High Holiday services as a family, and my children received a formal Jewish education. In addition to caring for my family, I was teaching special education at the local high school. I retired eight years ago, unsure of what I wanted to do next.

When a friend led me to Hadassah, it was like a lightbulb went off in my head. Hadassah, with its Zionist mission of helping the people of Israel, became my newfound purpose. What began as a role as recording secretary with a local Hadassah chapter quickly snowballed into a full-blown Hadassah career, including executive board positions such as programming vice president, education vice president and chapter president, which ultimately put me on a path to region president.

Today, my heart is full as I raise money and awareness for Hadassah’s many causes, knowing that every effort makes a tangible difference in people’s lives in Israel and beyond. As Henrietta Szold, the visionary founder of Hadassah, once said, “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

The Michigan 10
It began as a simple trip — 10 women from Hadassah Greater Detroit, brought together by our shared love for Israel and our connection to Hadassah. Some had dreamed of this journey for years, while others joined on a leap of faith, unsure of what to expect.

We came from different backgrounds, professions and stages of life, but we all shared a deep commitment to Jewish values and a desire to strengthen our connection to Israel. As we boarded the plane, we were acquaintances, some even strangers. After 10 extraordinary days, an incredible bond formed amongst us and we had earned a name: The Michigan 10. What happened on that journey changed us forever. And today, we are passionate, dedicated leaders, shaping Hadassah’s future.

For 10 days in the Autumn of 2022, we immersed ourselves in Israel’s history, culture and people. In Tel Aviv, we experienced a modern Israel — vibrant and full of energy. We explored the bustling Carmel Market, where the scent of fresh spices and baked goods filled the air. We walked through Neve Tzedek, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, now a hub of art galleries, boutiques and cafés.

At the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, we gained insight into Israel’s efforts at enhanced coexistence with its Arab population and Israel’s leadership in technology and medicine.

In Jerusalem, we walked through the Old City’s ancient alleyways, touched the cool stones of the Western Wall and reflected on the Jewish people’s resilience. At Latrun, an Israeli military museum, we traced the footsteps of those who had fought for Israel’s independence, gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made to establish and protect the Jewish homeland.

When we arrived at the Haas Promenade at 9 am for the kickoff of Hadassah’s 100^th National Convention, not knowing what to expect, we found ourselves among hundreds of women and a few men. As we stood overlooking the breathtaking views of Jerusalem, a band began to play a powerful rendition of Hatikvah. As music filled the air, we danced, sang and hugged. We came together, united in purpose and spirit.

We were transported into Israel’s present-day miracles as we visited the Hadassah Medical Organization’s two hospitals—Hadassah Mount Scopus and Hadassah Ein Kerem—where our eyes were opened to the cutting-edge medical research taking place in Israel. We met doctors who were leading groundbreaking advancements in cancer treatment, heart disease and stem cell therapy. In the trauma unit, we saw how Hadassah’s world-class care extended to all people, regardless of religion or nationality.

Traveling north, we visited Haifa, where the breathtaking Bahá’í Gardens stretched along the slopes of Mount Carmel. Standing at the top, we gazed out at the stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea and the bustling port below. We also learned about the city’s unique coexistence, where Jews, Christians, Muslims and Druze live and work side by side.

As we continued north, we wandered through the mystical streets of Safed, where Kabbalistic traditions and artistic expression blend seamlessly. On the Golan Heights, we stood at Israel’s border with Syria and, looking out over the region, we could see Israel’s kibbutzim, grasping the geopolitical security challenges Israel faces daily.

Another meaningful experience came in a small Druze village, where we were welcomed into a family’s home for a traditional Druze meal. Gathered around a table filled with fragrant dishes, we shared stories and laughter, discovering the deep sense of hospitality and unity that defines Israeli society.

At Hadassah’s Meir Shfeyah Youth Aliyah Village, we met children from Ethiopia, Russia and other troubled regions, who found safety, education and opportunity in Israel. Seeing these young lives transformed by Hadassah’s work made us realize that our efforts extended far beyond hospital walls. We are helping rescue Jewish children worldwide.

The Legacy of The Michigan 10
Something happens when you experience Israel with Hadassah. You don’t just leave with memories; you leave with a mission. When The Michigan 10 returned home, our journey didn’t end. Inspired by what we had seen and felt, we channeled our passion into action. Some of us stepped into leadership roles within our Hadassah Greater Detroit region and local chapters, recognizing the importance of philanthropy.

We organized fundraising events, advocating for Hadassah’s medical and educational initiatives and mentored new members.

Others deepened their involvement in Israel and Hadassah advocacy, raising awareness about Israel’s challenges and Hadassah’s contributions on the global stage.

Today, The Michigan 10 have become recognized as rising leaders within Hadassah. Some serve on regional and national boards, helping to shape Hadassah’s policies and initiatives. Others are leading membership campaigns, bringing new generations into the organization and ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive. Individually, each member of The Michigan 10 is making an impact. Together, our passion and determination have become a driving force in our communities.

I am forever changed by the bonds of sisterhood I formed and the deep connection I developed with Israel — its land, its people and its spirit. What began as a 10-day trip became something far greater; it became a movement. The Michigan 10 proved that when people connect deeply with Israel and Hadassah, they don’t just become members; they become leaders.

My time in the Jewish homeland strengthened my identity and reinforced my commitment to the Jewish people. I find myself even more immersed in my work with Hadassah, as the Greater Detroit’s region president. With a year and a half left in my presidency, I know my journey with Hadassah won’t end here.

The story of The Michigan 10 lives on, not only through the lifelong friendships we have built but also through the Hadassah members we continue to inspire. We have become the voices of the next generation, carrying Hadassah’s mission forward with energy, vision and purpose. With each individual who embarks on this journey, a new chapter begins. I look forward to what the future holds and, in the meantime, eagerly await my next trip to Israel!

Marcie is a member of the Hadassah Writers’ Circle, a dynamic and diverse writing group for leaders and members to express their thoughts and feelings about all the things Hadassah does to make the world a better place. It’s where they celebrate their personal Hadassah journeys and share their Jewish values, family traditions and interpretations of Jewish texts. Since 2019, the Hadassah Writers’ Circle has published nearly 500 columns in The Times of Israel Blogs and other Jewish media outlets. Interested? Please contact hwc@hadassah.org.