Hostage survivor Evyatar David: "I am dealing with PTSD and flashbacks"
In his first post since returning from captivity, David describes the complex rehabilitation process: "Surviving is one thing - rehabilitating is a different battle." His family members have launched a crowdfunding campaign for him.
Hostage survivor Evyatar David published his first personal message today, Thursday, since his return from captivity, revealing the complex mental struggle he is undergoing and the long road to recovery.
In a social media post, David shared his feelings after more than two years in captivity, highlighting the gap between physically returning home and the ongoing mental battle. "The truth? I don't know why I felt I needed to share right now," he wrote. "Maybe because after more than two years in captivity, I was sure that after what I went through, nothing would be too big for me anymore."
David described how his life turned upside down in an instant when he arrived at the Nova festival: "I was kidnapped, put into a dark tunnel, and all I thought about was surviving another day." According to him, what strengthened him in the difficult moments were thoughts of his family and the hope that they would not give up on him.
Upon his return to Israel, he spoke of the wave of support he received from the public: "I received more love than one can imagine. People I didn't know said they prayed for my return. After everything I saw there, the people of Israel reminded me that there is also good in the world."
However, he emphasized that returning home does not mark the end of the struggle:
"Slowly I understood that even when you return home, not everything returns with you. I am dealing with PTSD and flashbacks. There are moments when I am in a safe place, but my head still goes back there."
David clarified that he is not asking for pity, but aspires to heal and rebuild his life. "My dream is to rehabilitate, get married, start a family in Israel, and truly return to life," he wrote.
Due to the financial difficulties involved in the rehabilitation process, his family and friends have opened a crowdfunding campaign to allow him to focus on his recovery. "The rehabilitation journey is long," he noted, adding: "If you can help, by donating or sharing, I will be grateful."
Link to crowdfunding for the rehabilitation of Evyatar David:
