Fifteen-year-old Rephael, affectionately known as Meir—a name that means “He who shines” in Hebrew.
Meir, who has familial dysautonomia, is among only 290 people worldwide with this disorder and is the second youngest known case globally. His fight began early; as an infant, he experienced a stroke and faced repeated hospitalizations due to the fragility of his lungs. Despite hurdles, Meir’s spirit remains unbroken.
For years, Meir’s father, a devoted Rabbi, shouldered the heavy financial burden of his care. The breakthrough came when the Money Follows the Person (MFP) Program, Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDS) waivers, and CCC together helped make Meir’s return home possible.
Michelle, Meir’s CCC MFP Transition Coordinator, reveals the profound impact Meir has on those around him. “Every nurse and caregiver who meets Meir falls in love with him,” she says. “His infectious smile and silent laugh—so powerful it shakes his whole body—make him an irreplaceable source of joy.”
Meir’s love for Judge Judy and fascination with zoo animals became the heart of his recent homecoming celebration. Staff and caregivers organized a heartwarming parade just for him: they donned zoo animal masks, and one dressed as Judge Judy, bringing a burst of color and joy to the hospital hallways.
His story is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the power of love, and a reminder of the incredible impact one person’s spirit can have on others.
