Israeli soldier Neriya Leiter remains unconscious but breathing independently after September attack

Neriya Leiter, the son of Israel's ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, was moved on Wednesday from Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem to Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer for continued neurological and traumatic brain injury rehabilitation. Hospital officials said he remains unconscious but is breathing independently.

His mother, Chana Leiter, told ynet that the family is alternating between pain and hope, emphasizing the need to stimulate him with conversation, music and massage. She said the effort has expanded beyond the immediate family as the recovery is expected to be a long process.

Leiter, who is married with four children and lives in Havat Yair, said the family is trying to keep the children’s routine normal while providing them with support. She also recalled the recent memorial service for her other son, Maj. (res.) Moshe Yedidya Leiter, who was killed in combat in northern Gaza three years ago, noting that the gathering gave the family strength.

"We move between pain and hope, and sometimes we fall, but we also strengthen one another and have made it our goal to focus on the good at all times," Chana Leiter said.

"The situation is very complicated because Neriya is still unconscious. From speaking with people who were once unconscious, we understand that they remember people talking to them and that it's very important to stimulate him, speak to him and make him feel good," she added.

"This is an opportunity to thank everyone for their concern and compassion. I see kindhearted people everywhere, and I'm grateful for it. It's one of the things keeping me going," she said.

Hospital staff highlighted the family's resilience as an example to others.