When the news of Shimon Peres's stroke broke on Tuesday, there was a widespread sense of shock.
Not just the shock that follows any stroke but rather that President Peres - that is how he still feels to most of us - who has seemed an indestructible force of nature for so many years, was human after all.
Even at 93, his zest for life and energy is awe inspiring. The last of the true giants of Israel who were involved in moulding the country from the very beginning, he is a statesman of global reach. His words are listened to with anticipation and respect across the planet. But it is not just respect: it is love. When he came to Britain for his 90th birthday celebration it felt almost as if he was family.
Whatever one's politics, he holds a special place in our hearts. As we go to press, the reports are that he is gaining strength. All our prayers and thoughts are with him and his family.