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Channels Conversations Ordinary People, Extraordinary Stories

I Was in a Coma and the Doctors Gave Up on Me

Nikki Goldstein in conversation with Chana Weisberg

How a Baptist Girl from the Deep South Became a Chabad Rebbetzin

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I Was in a Coma and the Doctors Gave Up on Me

Nikki's turnaround came when a rabbi came into her room with a shofar. She went on to publish his book after he was murdered by terrorists.

See Also:	Conversations With My Rabbi: Timeless Teachings for a Fractured World
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Topics:	Purpose, Seven Noahide Laws, Near-Death Experience, Bondi Chanukah Massacre (2025)

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My Jewish Identity: Made in China

How a Baptist Girl from the Deep South Became a Chabad Rebbetzin

Chana Weisberg is host of the Ordinary People, Extraordinary Stories podcast and curator of advanced learning experiences on Chabad.org. She lectures internationally on issues relating to women, relationships, meaning, self-esteem and the Jewish soul. She is the author of six books. Her latest book, Shabbat Delights, is a two-volume series on the weekly Torah portion.

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Susan Dworin June 19, 2026

Now, remembering the interview again, I find myself in tears. Far far too many times I too found myself in a coma (figuratively) in an emergency room or in ICU. And yes, in a figurative way I have heard the shofar. In moments like that when one is faced with illness or injury sufficiently serious to have placed one there, one essence is close to the surface and Hashem’s voice can more easily be heard. For me, the journey has been long. As I look back I see how marvelously Hashem has used those vulnerable moments, giving them to me like stepping stones. And I think of your story so very inspiring, every detail seems choreographed by Hashem, unto His glory. And I realize I am and was not alone. I also realize that in someways ‘parts of me’ are asleep and need to be awakened…Thank you for awaking me with this interview…You know, Moshe used a trumpet to rally the people…May we all hear and be awaken…amen. Reply

Jodi Nicastro Stony Brook June 18, 2026

Chana,

So glad you interviewed Nikki. I’m reading her and Rabbi Eli’s book now. While reading I can feel her pain at the loss of her dear friend. Now I could hear the pain in her voice.
It’s amazing how she is now doing just what Rabbi Eli would want her to do. Keep going forward, keep spreading the beautiful Jewish light. May Rabbi Eli’s name continue to be for a blessing. Thank you. Reply

Susan Dworin June 1, 2026

This is incredible! What a wonderful story of awakening. And now what a story of courage, grief, purpose and mission. Through your eyes I felt like I was there. I am looking forward to the book. Baruch Hashem! Reply

Deanne u s June 1, 2026

What an amazing interview and a touching story.

I am not Jewish, but I believe in the Creator, the God of Israel. I sometimes attend events at the nearest chabad. I have to say, there is quite a variety of people that I meet there, from a Jewish woman who I guess doesn’t believe in God and who has a very profane mouth, to the rabbi and his wife who are very kind and welcoming to all. I am very impressed with his gracious manner and ability to interact with whoever shows up.

I’m sure Eli was the same and I’m so gratified to learn about this book and that a record of his words of wisdom and insight have been left as a legacy to the world. Reply

Jim Ocala May 30, 2026

Wonderfully relatable and articulate .
You are reaching much more than the CHaBaD audience alone .
May you reach many more . BH . Reply

Dina May 29, 2026

Thank you for this wonderful interview with Nikki Goldstein! Reply

Leah Matsui Kumamoto Japan May 28, 2026

Thank you so much for this beautiful story. It has elevated Friday here, in southern Japan. With love and respect, Leah Reply

I Was in a Coma and the Doctors Gave Up on Me

I Was in a Coma and the Doctors Gave Up on Me

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I Was in a Coma and the Doctors Gave Up on Me

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Join the Discussion

Synagogue Services

PALISADES JEWISH EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Youth Programs

Holiday Celebrations

Women's Events

Camp Gan Izzy