Israeli Lawyer Born Without Legs Runs for Knesset to Champion Disability Rights

Dror Legali, a 34-year-old Israeli lawyer born without legs and with only two fingers on each hand, was abandoned at birth but later adopted by a Chabad family. Despite his physical challenges, Legali earned a law degree, a master's, and is pursuing a doctorate while working as a legal and political advisor to ministers and Knesset members. He is now running in the Likud youth primaries with the goal of becoming a Knesset member.

Legali shared his life story in a revealing interview on the podcast 'Kikar FM,' describing how he was left in a hospital after birth and adopted by a family with multiple children, including others with disabilities. He discovered he was adopted at age seven and later met his biological family, maintaining close ties with both families. Legali emphasized his mindset of turning perceived limitations into strengths, recounting how he motivated a wounded IDF soldier to undergo rehabilitation.

Facing social stigma and professional barriers, Legali experienced nearly two years of rejection when seeking legal internships, attributing some of the bias to his disability and ultra-Orthodox appearance. He called on employers and the Israeli Bar Association to provide more opportunities for people with disabilities and urged the government to incentivize their employment.

Legali’s political vision includes establishing a "Youth Authority" to coordinate services for young Israelis aged 18 to 35, especially those aging out of foster care. He aims to become a Knesset member, chair the Health Committee, and eventually serve as Israel’s Health Minister to advocate for vulnerable populations.

Beyond politics, Legali is an accomplished snooker and bowling player, having developed unique techniques to compete despite his physical limitations. His story serves as an inspiration for people with disabilities, demonstrating that determination can overcome physical barriers.

Summary: Dror Legali, born without legs and with limited fingers, overcame abandonment and disability to become a lawyer and political advisor. Now running in Likud youth primaries, he aims to enter the Knesset to promote disability rights and youth services in Israel.