British Jewish Surgeon Who Donated Life-Saving Ambulances to Israel Dies at 90

Dr. Norman Rosenbaum, a British Jewish surgeon whose selfless contributions to Israel’s emergency medical services helped save an estimated 132,000 lives, passed away at the age of 90. His legacy lives on in every siren that wails, every life rescued, and every heartbeat restored across the Jewish state.

A long-standing member of the Cockfosters and North Southgate Synagogue in London, Rosenbaum dedicated two decades of his life to strengthening Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service. Through tireless fundraising and personal initiative, he donated 16 ambulances to MDA, each one a rolling testament to his profound love for the people of Israel.

According to MDA UK, even just 12 of these ambulances had responded to over 75,000 emergency calls by 2019 including 46 terror attacks, nearly 1,000 childbirths, and over 2,700 pediatric emergencies. One vehicle alone, gifted in 2010, answered more than 10,000 calls. The full impact of Rosenbaum’s efforts is staggering: 132,000 lives touched and saved.

Beyond donations, Rosenbaum was instrumental in establishing a vibrant donor base for MDA in North London, bringing together community members who shared his vision for a safer, better-equipped Israel. In 2021, he was recognized as an honorary manager of Magen David Adom in Israel and appointed vice-president of the UK branch.

His compassion extended beyond national borders. He even donated an ambulance in Hertfordshire in honor of Prince William, demonstrating his commitment to fostering goodwill and unity through service.

Tributes poured in from community leaders and friends alike. “Norman is the essence of a mensch and will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him,” said Daniel Burger, chief executive of MDA UK. Rabbi Yisroel Fine, former leader of Rosenbaum’s congregation, praised him as a model of Jewish responsibility and compassion, saying, “There are very few individuals I’ve encountered who so fully embodied the ideals of Jewish communal responsibility.”

Despite being awarded numerous honors including MDA Israel’s Humanitarian of the Year and the UK Prime Minister’s Points of Light Award Rosenbaum remained humble. In one notable instance, he declined a personal award to spotlight the work of another philanthropist, a gesture that epitomized his humility and generosity.

Dr. Norman Rosenbaum's life was a beacon of action and chesed, his impact felt across continents and communities. His legacy is one of unwavering support for Israel and an enduring commitment to the sanctity of life.

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