Lara – my dear special friend I have a hole in my heart, as do so many people. We are all grieving the loss of your warmth, honesty, amazing zest for life, laughter and smile that you brought into our lives.

Lara made everyone feel so good about being themselves. She made us all feel that she was really listening – because she was! She remembered all the minute details we shared with her, no matter how much time had passed since we told her, even through all her pain and uncertainty.

I davened next to Lara for many Rosh Hashonas, 1st at Ohr Somayach and then at Rabbi Saffer. Lara always davened with such sincerity, she loved being in shul with Shishi close to her, never running out early or going outside to schmooze.

Her commitment to Torah, with her mantra of “Ein od milvado” inspired everyone around her, and the last few weeks have shown us what a real connection to Hashem can be, as we all davened, said Tehillim and took in early Shabbos in her merit. Her intimate connection, devotion and close relationship with her family is an example to us all.

Our hearts are breaking for her family, we wish them comfort and strength, may they know no more sorrows.