Neshima L’Neshama — One Breath Can Save a Life

by Liba Shaffer

Two years ago, a young man from Lakewood, Mordy Berkowitz, made a tragic mistake. He drove while intoxicated and caused a serious accident resulting in the death of one woman and injury to a second. He was recently sentenced to prison, and in a remarkable act of courage, he has chosen to turn his remorse into a public plea:

“Please—don’t drink and drive.”

His story is a powerful reminder that even sincere, well-meaning individuals can make split-second decisions that change—or end—lives.

A Personal Loss

My family knows this pain firsthand.

My father, Gedaliah Yirachmiel ben Michel Shaffer, was killed by a drunk driver. The loss was sudden, devastating, and completely preventable. Each time I hear about alcohol-related incidents in the community, the wound reopens.

This is why I cannot stand by.

Alcohol in Our Community: Beautiful Gatherings, Hidden Risks

Across the Chabad world, gatherings have flourished:

Women’s circles
Farbrengens
Men’s events
Young professionals’ programs
Holiday celebrations
Shabbos meals

Many of these beautiful events include l’chaims, mixed drinks, or celebratory alcohol. These moments build connection and inspiration—but alcohol also brings risk. Judgment slips quietly, and a person may genuinely believe they are fine to drive when they are not.

It doesn’t take much.
Not carelessness.
Not bad intentions.
Just a few drinks and a short drive.

It is time to acknowledge the risk—and take responsibility.

The Torah Mandate: “Lo Sa’amod Al Dam Rei’echa”

We are commanded:

לֹא תַעֲמֹד עַל דַּם רֵעֶךָ

Do not stand idly by your fellow’s blood.

This mitzvah demands that we step in to prevent danger. In our generation, that includes preventing someone from driving under the influence.

Friends Don’t Let Friends Drink and Drive

We say it casually, but its truth is profound.

Still, confronting someone who has been drinking can feel awkward, especially in warm, social, or spiritual settings.

A breathalyzer solves this tension.

It allows a friend to say, “Let’s check,” in a way that is neutral, respectful, and objective.

No embarrassment.
No confrontation.
Just clarity—and potentially one or more lives saved.

Introducing: Neshima L’Neshama

In memory of my father, My family and I are launching a new initiative: to place a breathalyzer in every Chabad House that serves alcohol.

To begin this movement, we are sponsoring breathalyzers for the first 25 Chabad Houses that join the initiative.

This is not about restriction—it is about safety.
Not about control—but about care.
Not about fear—but about valuing life.

One breath.
One check.
One or more lives saved.

A Community of Responsibility

My father’s story, Mordy Berkowitz’s plea, and the Torah’s command together form a clear message:

We are guardians of one another.
We must take simple, preventative steps.
And together, we can build a culture where protecting life is woven into every gathering.

Join the Initiative

This initial sponsorship is currently available to Chabad Houses throughout the continental United States.

To participate, please email DRLSHAFFER@GMAIL.COM with the subject line: Neshima L’Neshama.

Because Neshima L’Neshama — one breath can save a life.
And because sparing even one life is an infinite mitzvah—saving one or more souls, families, and futures.