Israeli hostage Noa Argamani’s mother Liora had terminal brain cancer when her daughter was viciously kidnapped from the NOVA concert and taken to Gaza. Noa was probably the most well-known hostage, because her horrific abduction and terrorized screams were photographed and broadcast around the world. Her mother Liora gave interviews and wrote to world leaders pleading for Noa’s safe return.

A little over three weeks after that return – not through a prisoner exchange but through a daring and dangerous Israeli rescue operation – Noa’s mother died. Here’s is what Noa said at her funeral:

“My mother, the best friend there is, the strongest and most beautiful person I’ve ever known. I’m standing here today and it’s still hard for me to accept it,” Noa said in front of a packed room. “Against all odds, I was privileged to be with you in your last moments and to hear your last words.

“Thank you for being strong and holding on so that I could see you at least one more time, and so that Dad wouldn’t be left alone,” she said. “Thank you for the 26 years I was privileged to spend by your side. I learned so much from you. You took me to travel around the world with you and made me the strong person I am today.

“The tools that you gave me as a child are tools I couldn’t have acquired anywhere else,” Noa continued. “Every time things were difficult, you pushed me forward. I promise you that I will continue to follow your path. I promise you that I will take care of Dad. I promise you that I will be strong just like you.”

I think Noa has already demonstrated remarkable strength, as did her mother. I’m glad her mother got to see her again, and hope that they were still able to communicate.

Noa Argamani has been through so much in her young life, and her boyfriend – abducted to Gaza at the same time as Noa – is still there. Whether he is dead or alive is unknown.

RIP, Liora Argamani.