When Audrey Glickman, a survivor of the Tree of Life shooting, watched The Pitt on HBO Max, she felt ready for its emotional weight. The show’s latest episode included a scene with a woman who suffers burns on the Fourth of July. This woman reveals her trauma with a simple phrase: “October 27, 2018.”
That date marks the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history. The show doesn’t dramatize the tragic event. Instead, it shows how trauma lingers in subtle, everyday moments. In real life, these memories often surface unexpectedly, long after a tragedy occurs.
The Pitt has thoughtfully woven in Jewish culture and experience. The protagonist, Dr. Michael “Robby” Rabinovich, played by Noah Wyle, exhibits his Jewish identity without grand declarations. In one poignant scene, he finds solace in the Shema prayer, though he’s uncertain of his faith. This complexity captures the essence of what it means to carry trauma.
In the recent episode, Yana Kovalenko, portrayed by Irina Dubova, shares her past with Dr. Robby. She mentions rebuilding the Tree of Life synagogue, now meeting in nearby Rodef Shalom. This connection creates a sense of community and resilience, highlighting the ongoing journey toward healing for the survivors.
Glickman, who was touched by the portrayal, said it beautifully reflects the Pittsburgh spirit—similar to how shows based in New York or San Francisco capture their cities.
Barry Werber, another survivor, remembers hiding during the attack. He still experiences the lasting effects of that day. “I can’t sit with my back to a door,” he says. Meanwhile, Carol Black recalls how small sounds can startle her. “You just get used to it,” she explains. Both survivors convey the lasting imprint of trauma on their daily lives.
One of the episode’s understated moments shows a Muslim nurse receiving gratitude from the burn victim. This nod to interfaith solidarity highlights the support that came from the Muslim community following the shooting. Wyle mentioned that this solidarity is often overlooked yet crucial for healing and hope.
The show captures how trauma isn’t just an isolated incident; it surrounds communities over time. It addresses healing not with a clear endpoint but acknowledges that it’s a long process, one that doesn’t follow a set timeline. “There is no clock on how long it takes,” Dr. Robby tells Yana.
In essence, The Pitt brings to light the complex ways trauma persists and the power of community in its aftermath. It’s a reminder that while healing takes time, the connections formed during difficult times can lead to a more hopeful future.
For more about the Tree of Life saga and the local community’s efforts, you can visit the Tree of Life website.
