The Learning Centre

In memory of Dr Benjamin Angel

Benjamin was born and grew up in the Stanmore community. It was here that he had so many happy memories – of coming every Shabbat, first to the children's service and then to the main shul, of being with his family, of celebrating his Barmitzvah and later his Aufruf. It was in Stanmore where, after having married his beloved Louise and moving to Hampstead to be near his job at Royal Free Hospital, Benjamin wanted to bench Gomel, the prayer after recovering from serious illness, just a few months before he died on Erev Rosh Hashanah 5766, aged 26 years.

Benjamin was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when a few days old but, despite this condition, lived a remarkable life. He excelled both academically and as a sportsman. At the Royal Free he combined his insight, humility, intellect, charm and humour to make a unique doctor, admired by patients and colleagues alike. The knowledge that he might not have as much time as everybody else gave him a joie de vivre and the determination to make the time he had really count.

He undertook research into CF both in the UK and the US, and co-authored several published papers. He developed computer systems to help in-patient care and an internet-based teaching system for doctors that won him a prize at University College. In Jewish circles he was Chairman of Stanmore FZY and the Publicity Officer at Cambridge J-Soc. He had a love of Judaism, its traditions and all things Jewish.

Golf, food, music and travel were also Benjamin’s passions – but none more so than enjoying his role as a wise and loving husband and a wonderful son, big brother and grandson.

May we all be inspired by Benjamin and continue, as he did, to challenge and push ourselves always.

"Do not say, 'When I am free I will study,' for perhaps you will not become free." ...................................... Pirke Avot

CF is the most common fatal hereditary genetic disease among the Jewish population. It can be avoided by a simple test. For more information visit the Cystic Fibrosis Trust Website.

The Dr Benjamin Angel Foundation has been created to support educational, medical and Jewish causes in the UK and in Israel.

Registered Charity No. 1114062

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