Reflecting on Medical Breakthroughs in 2025
In a recent segment on “Fox & Friends,” Dr. Mark Siegel, a senior medical analyst, spotlighted some remarkable medical milestones from 2025, highlighting innovations ranging from burn treatments derived from pineapples to newly approved heart surgeries.
In his new book, *Miracles Among Us*, Dr. Siegel shares the various miracles that provided him with inspiration during the writing process, and he notes that many readers have since connected with him to share their own uplifting experiences. This theme offers a glimmer of hope as we look toward 2026, suggesting that faith and a guiding presence can help bridge divides. Below, Dr. Siegel lists five notable miracles from 2025 that instill optimism for the coming year.
1. Hostages
Eli Shalabi was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and eventually released on February 8, 2025, following a peace agreement. Tragically, he returned to find that his wife, Leanne, had passed away. His younger brother, Yossi, was also a hostage who didn’t survive.
In his memoir, *Hostage*, Shalabi details the harrowing conditions he faced during captivity. Following his release, he has become an advocate for other hostages still in captivity and the remains of those who didn’t make it back.
Dr. Siegel remarked, “Tell me your miracle, and I’ll share the one I’m hoping for.” Shalabi’s survival and the return of 168 hostages alive is indeed significant. He credits Jewish teachings and the Torah for his choice to focus on life and not remain stuck in despair.
As we approach 2026, the hope is for enduring peace across Gaza, Israel, and the broader Middle East.
2. Medical Progress
The advancements in cancer immunotherapy have been tremendous, and the outlook for 2026 appears promising. Cancer vaccines, particularly mRNA-based therapies, now focus on targeting specific proteins found on cancer cells, paving the way for more advanced treatments, including antibody-drug conjugates. Remarkably, these therapies have shown efficacy against challenging cancers like pancreatic cancer.
A significant focus is on the KRAS gene, often mutated in pancreatic cancer cases. This gene’s mutations can lead to unchecked cell growth, as it causes a regulatory protein to remain “on.”
Dr. Siegel commented, “May God grant a medical miracle to National Guardsman Andrew Wolf.” We’re soon entering an age of personalized cancer treatment, where individual genetics will significantly impact both prevention and treatment choices.
3. The Rise of AI
The conversation around artificial intelligence has been extensive of late, yet its potential is something I find incredibly promising. Robots designed by Nvidia are now capable of performing complex tasks ranging from mobility to decision-making. AI’s role will only expand by 2026, especially in areas like patient monitoring.
In healthcare specifically, AI is making strides—from imaging technologies that can detect heart disease and cancer earlier to sped-up drug development processes. It seems likely that 2025 will mark a significant turning point in medicine due to these innovations.
4. NexoBrid
I previously discussed NexoBrid in *Our Miracle* because it has played a critical role in saving burn victims following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. One particular family, the Golans, endured horrific burns in their home but were treated successfully with NexoBrid.
This treatment, derived from pineapple, works by removing dead tissue, often eliminating the need for surgical debridement. In 2025, it has gained global traction and is being widely adopted in the U.S. A recent study from Israel found that NexoBrid not only aids healing but also improves the cosmetic outcomes of traumatic skin injuries from bomb blasts.
5. Baby KJ Muldoon
Baby KJ is described by many as a Christmas miracle. He was born with a severe genetic defect that resulted in harmful levels of uremia and toxic ammonia. Remarkably, this mutation was corrected using CRISPR gene editing.
KJ is now able to walk and grow, and his story offers promise for future personalized gene therapies addressing various health issues. Such miracles seem increasingly within reach as we head into 2026, giving us all a reason to feel hopeful about the future of medicine.
