Josh Forman, Head of Science, Education, and Outreach at Jnetics, on the power of knowledge to shape healthier futures.
As we gather with family over Rosh Hashanah and the Yom Tovim, we naturally reflect on what we pass from one generation to the next. We pass on traditions, recipes, stories, values, our love of learning, our sense of community, and perhaps above all, our willingness to ask questions.
One of the key threads of the story of Jonah is precisely this idea – questioning. Jonah pushes back, questions, probes, and wrestles with Hashem’s instruction. Judaism has never encouraged us simply to accept the world as it is. Instead, it teaches us to ask, seek understanding, and use knowledge to improve the lives of others. This spirit has shaped generations of thinkers, scientists, and innovators whose discoveries have transformed medicine and saved countless lives.
We also pass on our genes which, for Jewish families, may carry an increased risk of certain genetic disorders. For centuries, inherited genetic conditions have affected Jewish families. Previous generations could only wonder why these illnesses occurred. Today, thanks to remarkable advances in genetics, and to scientists who never stopped asking questions, we have answers they never had and opportunities they could scarcely have imagined.
At Jnetics, we believe this is a powerful continuation of our Jewish tradition. By combining education with modern genetic screening, we help individuals and couples make informed decisions that can reduce the risk of severe inherited genetic conditions affecting future generations.
Through our work supporting access to BRCA testing, we also help people understand their inherited cancer risk, enabling earlier intervention and, in many cases, preventing cancer before it develop
As we begin a new year, perhaps the greatest legacy we can leave is not only the traditions we cherish, but the choices we make to protect those who come after us. Our ancestors taught us to ask questions. Those questions became discoveries, and those discoveries have become opportunities to build a future where fewer families experience the suffering previous generations simply had to accept.
This Rosh Hashanah, look to the future with hope by helping protect future generations. Learn more about Jnetics’ genetic screening services or consider making a donation to help more families access life-changing support. May the year ahead be one of health, hope, and new beginnings for us all.
