From Initial Dislike to Lasting Love: Couple Overcomes Disability and Doubts to Marry

Liron Yaakov, 35, and Yael Samuel, 39, from Netivot, Israel, met nearly 18 years ago in a preparatory program for independent living for people with disabilities. Initially, they disliked each other; Yael, who uses a wheelchair due to spina bifida, thought Liron was a relentless flirt, while Liron, who has cerebral palsy, found Yael cold and intimidating. Despite a brief moment of closeness during a movie night, they parted ways and married other people.

Both later divorced around the same time and found themselves searching for accessible shared housing. The director of the "Gvanim" association encouraged them to reconnect and live together. After some hesitation, Yael reached out to Liron, and they began a relationship that was initially undefined. Their bond deepened after a coffee meeting in Ashkelon, where they realized their connection was serious. Although they initially agreed not to marry again due to past fears and compromises, Liron proposed five years later during a trip to Eilat, surprising Yael.

Their relationship is described by Liron as the most genuine and mature he has experienced. They complement each other well, especially within the "Etgarim" association, where they participate in outdoor activities. Both emphasize being seen as individuals beyond their disabilities. Their daily love is expressed simply: Liron calls Yael his home, while Yael values Liron’s cooking as his heartfelt romantic gesture. This story highlights their journey from mutual dislike to a deep, supportive partnership.

Summary: Liron Yaakov and Yael Samuel, who initially disliked each other, reconnected nearly two decades after meeting in a disability support program, eventually marrying and building a genuine, supportive relationship in southern Israel.

Points: - Liron and Yael met 18 years ago in a disability independence program but initially disliked each other. - Both married others, divorced around the same time, and reconnected to live together. - Their relationship deepened after a coffee meeting, leading to a serious partnership. - Liron proposed five years later during a trip to Eilat, surprising Yael. - They actively participate in the "Etgarim" association, emphasizing individual identity beyond disability. - Their love is expressed through simple daily acts, like Liron’s cooking and mutual support.

Topic: general israel_relevant: true entities: {"people":["Liron Yaakov","Yael Samuel"],"organizations":["Gvanim","Etgarim"],"places":["Netivot","Ashkelon","Eilat","Israel"]}