Emily DeMarie’s mother: "Emily said she was the happiest in the world, got her life back"

Mandy Damari, the mother of Emily Damari who was returned from Hamas captivity in the first step of the deal, said this morning (Monday) that Emily is in a “much better” medical condition than the family expected. She said that in the near future she, Emily and the family members will not be interviewed, and asked to respect their privacy.

Mandy DeMarie: “Yesterday, I finally got to hug Emily, as I had dreamed of for a long time. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the people who contributed to the fight to bring Emily home and supported us during this time. As I’ve mentioned throughout, you are all an integral part of Emily’s family.

“It was an immense joy to see, along with the whole world, a glimpse of Emily’s strength, determination and charisma at the time of her release. In Emily’s own words – she is the happiest woman in the world; she got her life back. However, alongside our great happiness, it is important to remember 94 more hostages are still being held by Hamas, and the ceasefire must continue until the last of the hostages returns home to his family.

“Emily is an example of extraordinary resilience, but her journey is just beginning. As you saw, Emily lost two fingers on her left hand, and she needs time and space to devote herself to rehabilitation together with her family, friends and the medical team that accompanies her.”

Emily DeMarie herself wrote on a social network after her return: “I love, love, love, thank God, thank my family, Oral, the best friends I have in this world. I returned to my beloved life. I was able to see only a little bit of everything and you shattered my heart with excitement. The most Joy in the world just to be.”