Leah had asked me to take pictures of her apartment when I was in Israel last month. She especially wanted the views of Jerusalem as a reminder of her cherished time in the holy city. I called her when I was finished and said that when I returned to Florida I would show her the photos of the rooms and views and make up a little album. That was my last conversation with Leah. The next day she was brought to intensive care. When I arrived back home, she was on a ventilator.
Leah’s daughter-in-law Nuda was a guardian angel, standing guard with loving chesed until the very end. The last week was extremely daunting. Leah passed on July 21 as I recited the Shema at her bedside.
I would like to acknowledge two very special individuals whose caring and kindness at this very difficult time is greatly appreciated. Thank you to Rabbi Simeon Schreiber, chaplain of Mt. Sinai, and Dr. Robert Galbut, Leah’s physician.
Leah Brooks was a real eishet chayil, a woman of valor. She lived each day to the fullest, learning, doing mitzvot and helping others. Before I left for Israel she asked to borrow an alarm clock. The hospital routine started at the break of dawn and she wanted to get up early in order to daven.
Leah will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.
Baruch dayan ha’emet.