Heroes of the Daf: Jay Schechter
"Daf Guy" establishes Shiur, amazes hospital staff and inspires the world
It was at the Eleventh Siyum Hashas of Daf Yomi in 2005, when Jay Schechter, then principal and CEO of Rambam Yeshiva in Brooklyn, was in Madison Square Garden with his students.
The historic event – especially the dancing – made a powerful impression. The very next day, Mr. Schechter established a successful shiur including several students in the Rambam affiliated Zvi Dov Roth Academy. The Daf became an integral part of Jay's DNA.
Over the subsequent years, Jay suffered four heart attacks and underwent four surgeries and hospitalizations. Despite the pain and physical weaknesses involved during the procedures and recovery, Jay consistently learned The Daf. Doctors and nurses watched in awe as their patient clutched his Gemara while connected to an array of monitors and machines, toiling over each holy word.
"The Daf is a commitment you make every day," says Jay, "to learn it no matter where you are and what the circumstances are."
At the last Siyum HaShas in 2012, Jay shared his story with a CNN reporter. When it was shared around the world on CNN News, his kiddush Hashem took wings. And Jay earned a nickname: His friends call him the "Daf Guy," while he – of course – continues to diligently learn The Daf.
When over 100,000 yidden worldwide will once again celebrate The Siyum be"H in Metlife Stadium in less than six months, the event will be filled with innumerable "heroes" – each having shown an incredible level of commitment and sacrifice to reach this milestone.
What a kiddush Hashem!
Please visit thesiyum.org for information and updates regarding the upcoming Siyum HaShas, or text siyum to 313131. If you would like to join Chavrei HaSiyum or for general inquiries about the Siyum HaShas, email info@thesiyum.org. 
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