Netanel Felber was critically wounded in December 2018 when a Palestinian terrorist shot him in the head while he was serving in the IDF.
In a moving development that his family calls "an open miracle," Netanel Felber, the IDF soldier who was shot in the head by a Palestinian terrorist in December 2018, has spoken his first word in nearly six years - "Mama."
Felber, who has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation since the attack, made this breakthrough during a speech therapy session. While he hasn't been able to repeat the word, medical professionals view this as a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
Recent weeks have shown other encouraging signs of progress. In a touching moment, Felber was able to independently hold his 10-month-old nephew, responding with a smile when attempting to speak to the infant. His cognitive awareness has also become increasingly evident through his interactions with family and caregivers.
Felber demonstrated both his comprehension and sense of humor during a conversation with his mother about a meal from a local shawarma shop. When his mother mistakenly asked about falafel he hadn't eaten, he not only corrected the misunderstanding but also laughed at the confusion, showing clear understanding of the situation's humor.
Felber has also begun expressing specific preferences through his communication board, recently requesting mystery audio books for entertainment.
The young soldier's journey has become a symbol of resilience within the Israeli community.
His family continues to request prayers for Netanel Ilan ben Shayna Tziporah as he progresses in his recovery journey.
