About The Author
Rabbi Elie and Chaya Rochel Estrin served as the co-directors of Chabad at University of Washington in Seattle for thirteen years. After moving to North Miami Beach, FL, Rabbi Estrin became the Military Personnel Liaison for the Aleph Institute, combining his Jewish outreach experience with his military position as a Chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve. Rabbi Estrin also teaches at the Chaya Aydel Seminary in Hallandale Beach, FL, and is a sought-after inspirational speaker. When Chaya Rochel is not serving as Nissi’s medical coordinator, chauffeur, and multi-disciplinary therapist alongside being the mom for their other five children, she works in data management.
Praise
“A gripping tale of perseverance and not taking no for an answer… A manual for proactive faith in G-d, [and] a must-read for every parent.”
Rabbi Yisroel Edelman, Rabbi, Young Israel of Deerfield Beach
“This poignant story…is a case study in how the patient-physician-family relationship can go wrong and how the determination of a family can make all of the difference…”
Jeffrey Levsky, MD, PhD, Professor of Cardiothoracic Radiology and Medicine/Cardiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
“[P]rovides long-needed and absolutely invaluable advice for medical providers, families, and friends…”
Dr. Sarah Stroup, Professor of Classics at the University of Washington
“Heartfelt, heartrending, and heartwarming all at once.”
Lieutenant General Mike Plehn, USAF
Book Description
For nine weeks before he was born, his parents were told by the doctors to “let nature take its course.” His parents opted to look beyond nature.
When their sixth child was diagnosed in utero with complex congenital heart and gastrointestinal defects, Elie and Chaya Rochel Estrin knew they had a tough ride ahead. Their determined battle to save baby Nissi was waged in spite of doctors’ predictions for a six-hour lifespan. It was a struggle inspired by the Jewish approach to life, deep Chassidic insights, and spurred on by overt miracles — resulting in the remarkable medical journey recounted here.
Of Medicine, Miracles, and Mindsets is a candid journal of fear and determination, a passionately eloquent yet humorous chronicle of the beauty and the ugliness in hospitals, of patient advocacy, of unwavering parental love, and of optimism and trust in G-d — even under the most trying and difficult circumstances.
Natacha Prezman –
Once you pick up this book you won’t be able to put it down until you finish it. Through the emotional and tireless fight of Nissi parents for his survival, we learn how to navigate the hospital world so as to not become a victim of it but rather a partner. We learn as well invaluable and concrete ways to help any friend who might go through this kind of crisis. And of course this book is a testimony of the miracles of Hashem
Mom101 –
This book is so profound. I myself have a chronic illness and felt as if I was reading about my fight against the medical community.
It shows that there is a massive problem with the system!
I am awed by the authors strength and love for their family.
Susan Shapiro –
Love the positive read, very upbeat with an incredible story of parental advocacy. Thrilled with this book. Highly recommended.
D K –
An ordeal that turned their life upside down can turn your perspective right side up. No pages wasted. An amazing story with amazing people. God Bless
Estee –
A fantastic story about a fantastic family and their miraculous journey.
chana karp –
This book is truly heartbreaking, uplifting and inspiring!!
Rabbi Mendy Cheruty –
Wow Amazing book very inspiring and uplifting
Samuel Yudin –
In my career I have read hundreds of books by the world and history’s greatest minds in a deliberate practice to be better. Very few have I not wanted to put down. Very few have connected with me from start to finish. Very few have been as impactful as this book.
I was angry at the neglect by the medical professionals who ostensibly swore a hippocratic oath but did not display those medical ethics. I was in awe of the incredibly strong and positive mindset, faith, and adherence to guiding principles despite the near unbearable circumstances. The way chassidus can step up like a worldwide circulatory system to supply the heart and soul with life requiring substance cannot be doubted. Nissi teaches us all that having half of a heart full of love and perseverance is more of a complete heart than a healthy full heart that cannot hold any love, will, or perseverance. When we have love, will and the perseverance to share it, the heart already has all it needs.
Thank you for sharing this miracle with us.
Carter –
As we have gone through similar journey by reading this book we were so inspired how Hashem gives us a special adrenaline when we confront challenges-great coping skills guide- no one shall ever need it.