These days, when most places are closed, the Safari workers and zookeepers continue to care for the animals despite the lack of visitors. That day started the same as any other, but nearly ended in tragedy.
A few weeks ago, the safari management decided that from now on, two caregivers would work in the kangaroo yard, for their safety. In retrospect, that decision saved lives. Amir Bendel, a zookeeper, entered the kangaroo yard for routine treatment, but soon felt pain in his chest and collapsed. His co-worker who was standing nearby immediately called Magen David Adom and called Doron Tam, the Operations Manager at the Safari, who has also been a volunteer with MDA for the past eight years.
Doron Tam, an MDA Senior EMT, in addition to being the operations manager at the Safari, is also responsible for the first aid at the zoo. As part of his job, he arranged for two defibrillators to be installed at different locations throughout the park. That morning, he and his co-worker Gilad received an emergency call for their unresponsive coworker.
The two immediately rushed to the scene with the AED. Doron recounted those first few moments "when we arrived at the compound, we saw Amir on the ground unresponsive. We began CPR and connected the AED, which provided two electrical shocks. Following the second shock, he began the breathe again. We provided him with oxygen, and at the same time an MDA Medi-cycle First Responder and MICU arrived and continued medical treatment. Amir was evacuated in stable condition to Sheba Tel HaShomer Hospital for further treatment."
He adds: "This is the first time I have performed CPR in the Safari and on a co-workder. We have set up a network of medical assistance and I am glad that this enabled us to save his life. Amir came back to visit us and it was very emotional. We are eager to see him return to work and make a full recovery"
Amir Bendel, a caretaker in the monkey department and a safari train driver, admitted that he does not remember anything from the moment of the incident - and two days back. Despite this, he heard about the case from his co-workers and medical staff and was thrilled to discover that thanks to his safari colleagues - his life was miraculously saved.
On his return to the safari for the first time after the incident, Amir excitedly recalled: "I was very happy to return, even if it was a short visit until I make a full recovery. It was very exciting to meet Doron and Gilad - this time when we all smiling and on our feet. I thanked them and Doron was more excited than me. I could not believe that I came to visit so quickly. I am still in the process of rehabilitation, walking around my home but am looking forward to returning to the safari. I thank everyone who helped and was a part of my return to life."