Lilian Gandelman, a 46-year-old lawyer originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has transformed her life after overcoming significant health challenges, including a rare cancer that led to her leg amputation. After enduring 31 surgeries throughout her childhood, Gandelman relocated to Tel Aviv in 2016, seeking a fresh start and greater independence. Despite never having visited Israel before, she approached the Jewish Agency for support, though her initial experiences were marred by accessibility issues in her absorption center.

Gandelman’s journey has not been without its struggles; she faced societal challenges, including stares and intrusive questions about her disability. However, she has learned to navigate these interactions with humor and assertiveness. Her commitment to advocacy shines through as she calls for better training in public spaces to foster understanding and support for individuals with disabilities. Gandelman finds joy in her new life, particularly in Tel Aviv, where she enjoys the beach and the vibrant community. She emphasizes the importance of learning Hebrew and stepping out of one’s comfort zone to build connections, ultimately expressing a deep sense of belonging in her adopted homeland.