In a heartwarming story of generosity and life-saving intervention, former St. Louisan Dr. Irvin Pretsky’s gift to Israel has resulted in four new lives being brought into the world under unique circumstances.

In 2022, Pretsky, 88, an anesthesiology specialist in Encino, Calif. donated a Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) ambulance to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service, in memory of his parents Jake and Dora Pretsky of University City. Jake Pretsky was a baker who worked at Lickhalter Bakery for more than 40 years.

“The unit was dedicated in Los Angeles in November of 2022. Then, it was sent off to Israel to be stationed, by my request in Efrat where my granddaughter and her family live,” said Pretsky. “My five great-grandkids there share bragging rights, as their names are emblazoned on the doors of the ambulance, along with names of my 21 great-grandkids, as well.”

Since Oct 7, Magen David Adom ambulances have been a symbol of hope. Now, Jake and Dora’ Pretsky’s ambulance is not only that but a symbol of new beginnings as well.

In January 2024, amidst ongoing tensions in the region, the ambulance came into the spotlight on four separate occasions.

In a letter, Dorin Esfahani, director of major gifts, western region for Magen David Adom, wrote to Pretsky:

“Amidst these dark times, I am pleased to share some positive news.

“A baby boy was delivered on Jan. 16 by MDA teams in your Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) Ambulance, in the parking lot of Hadassah Ein Karem Hospital. Two hours later, a baby girl was delivered by MDA teams and transported in your MICU to Sha’are Tzedek Hospital.

“On January 21, a baby boy was delivered at home by MDA teams and transported in your MICU to Hadassah Ein Karem hospital. And, on January 30, a baby girl was delivered by MDA teams at home and transported to Sha’are Tzedek Hospital in your MICU.

“Four deliveries in two weeks – Mazal Tov! What a busy month! I hope this brings you and your family joy during these difficult times.”

The Magen David Adom Ambulances

Pretsky’s story reflects the power of individual acts of kindness in making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Before the Oct. 7 attack, the Jake and Dora Pretsky ambulance was one of 1,400 in service as part of Magen David Adom.

“EMTs and paramedics are treating the wounded, often while under rocket attack and gunfire themselves. As always, the men and women of MDA are risking their lives to save the lives of others,” said an MDA spokesperson in an email to the Jewish Light. “Help is desperately needed to put more ambulances on the road and to replenish supplies for EMTs and paramedics and for MDA’s blood services division. We thank everyone in St. Louis for your help.”

Click here to contribute or learn more about Magen David Adom.