A Heart of Steel... And a Laughing Soul…

Mohammad Namma was born with a rare heart condition. From just 10 days old, he began his long journey through life, a journey that included 5 open-heart surgeries and 17 cardiac catheterizations by the age of 24.

As an Arab-Muslim child in Israel, Mohammad grew up in the unique environment of Tel Hashomer Hospital, where he witnessed scenes of true human coexistence from a young age:

There, amidst the moans of patients and the laughter of hope, Mohammad began to see the world through a different lens.

In the most difficult moments of his life, between the white walls of the hospital, Mohammad discovered a wonderful secret. The small television hanging above his bed showed him comedy series like 'Seinfeld' and 'Friends', and his father made sure to bring newspapers, books, and Sudoku puzzles on every visit.

In the midst of pain and fear, Mohammad began to realize that laughter is not just entertainment, but a real medicine for the soul. He could feel how his mental state improved when he laughed, and how he forgot his pain for a few moments.

From that point on, comedy was no longer just an escape from a painful reality, but a life mission. Mohammad began to believe that laughter could heal broken souls and give hope to despairing hearts.

Since childhood, Mohammad was known for his innate ability to make those around him laugh. It wasn't just a coincidence or a passing talent; he had a natural comedic sense that made him the star wherever he went.

Mohammad had the ability to read the room and analyze people, knowing when and how to tell the right joke. He didn't need preparation or training; comedy flowed from him as naturally as water from a spring.

This innate talent was not just for entertainment; it was his way of dealing with life and its challenges. He used humor as a bridge to break down barriers and bring hearts closer, and as a shield to protect him from the harshness of reality.

At the age of 18, after completing his long medical journey, Mohammad made a noble and moving decision. Instead of staying away from the hospital that had witnessed the toughest years of his life, he decided to return to Tel Hashomer to perform his civil service in the very place that had saved his life.

Mohammad wanted to be the person who could say to patients: 'I was in your shoes, I know how you feel, but look at me today.'

During his civil service, a staff member at the hospital asked him to perform at a party for volunteers. Mohammad didn't know what he would present, but he felt it was an opportunity he had to take.

Mohammad stood on stage for the first time in his life, in front of an audience of doctors, nurses, and volunteers, and began to tell his story with a sarcastic, comedic style. He talked about his suffering, the funny situations he experienced in the hospital, and how laughter saved him from despair.

That night, something magical happened. The audience laughed from the heart, and they connected with his story in a way he never expected. Mohammad felt the power of comedy and its ability to touch hearts and unite people.

After his service, Mohammad found himself at a crossroads. What would he do now? He had no university degree or professional experience, but he had a powerful weapon: his talent for comedy.

Mohammad decided to start from scratch. He worked washing dishes in a restaurant, and at the same time, he was writing jokes and developing his comedic skills. He worked hard during the day, and at night he would read, watch comedy shows, and practice in front of the mirror.

Little by little, Mohammad started participating in open mic nights, where he tested his jokes on a real audience. The beginning was tough, but he didn't give up. He learned from his mistakes and continuously refined his style.