Sunday, September 6, saw the Five Towns community gathered in unified support of Dor Yeshorim, the one-of-a-kind trailblazing organization dedicated to the prevention of Jewish genetic diseases. The home of Dr. Jay and Mrs. Cheryl Bienenfeld overflowed with guests as the couple hosted a gala breakfast event, titled “Rise ‘n’ Shine,” to raise awareness of Dor Yeshorim’s important work. The crowd was energetic for an early Sunday morning–perhaps the previous night’s Selichos had left everyone feeling motivated to do something big to help the klal.

Drawing on that inspiration, Rabbi Paysach Krohn delivered a moving keynote address. The noted orator touched upon some of the lesser-known aspects of Dor Yeshorim, sharing the personal story of Rabbi Yosef Ekstein, Dor Yeshorim’s founder. Rabbi Krohn told how Rabbi Ekstein had overcome the tremendous pain of great personal loss to try ensuring that no one would have to go through what he and his family experienced due to genetic disease. Rabbi Krohn stressed that as the yamim nora’im approach, all should learn from Rabbi Ekstein’s holy work and be encouraged by witnessing one man’s ability to make such a tremendous impact on Klal Yisrael.

Attendees also learned more about Dor Yeshorim’s leading role in breakthrough research and the unparalleled assistance its staff gives to families affected by genetic illness.

The event was a success, with noted community members serving on the rabbinical and reception committees. Committee members included Rabbi Yaakov Feitman, Rabbi Berish Friedman, Rabbi Aryeh Ginzberg, Rabbi Daniel H. Mehlman, Rabbi Dovid Spiegel, Rabbi Moshe Weinberger, Rabbi Naftali Zvi Weitz, Moshe Beer, Binyamin Casper, Yossi Farber, Dr. Richard Friedman, Moshe Hammer, Dr. Steven Kadish, Meir Krengel, Robert Levinson, Stanley Liker, Steven Liker, Shimshie Rosenberg, Shmuel Schechter, Rabbi Daniel Schwechter, Mendy Wechter, and Hillel Zand.