Standing Ovation Given to Chabad Girl With Genetic Disorder

By COLlive reporter

Rosie Grossbaum, a student at Bais Chaya Mushka High School in Monsey, New York (formerly of Cheder Lubavitch Morristown), recently gave a rousing speech encouraging people with physical disabilities to believe in the power Hashem has given them.

Growing up, Grossbaum was certain that the medical treatments she had been undergoing, the weekly visits to the hospital and the daily medicine she was taking were common things.

She later learned what are the effects of Cystic Fibrosis (CF), the genetic life-threatening disorder that damages the lungs and digestive system. Many patients with the condition sadly die in their early years.

Her parents, R’ Mendel and Rochie Grossbaum of Morristown, NJ, lovingly have stood by her over the years and enrolled her in Camp Simcha, the overnight summer program of the Chai Lifeline organization for children and teens with life-threatening and lifelong illnesses.

Today a 17-year-old, Grossbaum was invited to address the kick-off event of Bike4Chai, a premier cycling event in support of Camp Simcha and Chai Lifeline.

Speaking in front of a crowd of 1,000 people, Grossbaum candidly shared what gives her strength in difficult times as she lives with the illness.

Drawing on the teachings of the Alter Rebbe in Tanya, she spoke about the neshama within every Jew and the endless power each one has despite physical limitations.

Even before she concluded her speech, Grossbaum received a standing ovation.

VIDEO:

Support Chai Lifeline at https://www.bike4chai.com