My journey began on a day of curfew, a dramatic entry into the world. I was born with an umbilical cord around my neck and I fought for my first few breaths. I was a blue baby brought back to life by a determined pediatrician. The initial days in the incubator, as described by my family, were like a scene from a movie. The right background music could turn it into a melodrama.
My parents were my steadfast champions and were determined to give me a normal childhood despite cerebral palsy. I cherish memories of childhood like painting more on myself than on paper. The only thing I missed was school in my early years. But fate had gifted me an extraordinary twin, Shruti, who made it her mission to share her world with me. She's my anchor and the reason I feel so 'normal'. I often say that I was created first, destiny charted, and then she was sent five minutes ahead to understand and guide me.
Being told I was 'God's special one' as a child felt like emotional compensation for my perceived lack of normalcy. As I grew, I began to grasp the true meaning of that phrase. I am special not because of how I look, but because of who I am.
At the age of six, I embarked on a journey to the USA for surgeries and rehabilitation. It was a time of uncertainty and fear coupled with pampering and a healthy dose of blackmail to ensure I did my physiotherapy.
After receiving treatment for nine months there, I returned to India with the ability to walk with support. Physiotherapy sessions were my daily battle, where I had to deal with a episode of pain and fear.
School was still a distant dream, but my parents never gave up. They found a school willing to welcome me from nursery and advance me to the third grade after an exam. At school, mathematics was my greatest nemesis, but with my parents, sister, and tutor by my side, I conquered it. They tirelessly taught me techniques, ensuring I didn't fall behind. As I was trying my best to adjust to the new routine of school, physiotherapy continued to be a painful yet integral part of my life.
As I entered college, I discovered that I wasn't just good, but had the potential to be the best. However, finding a college that accommodated my needs as a differently abled person was a challenge. Even with 75 percent in the 12th grade, a top college refused to admit me due to accessibility issues. Fortunately, I found another college that was willing to accept me and help me explore my academic journey.
Despite the struggles in my path to earn a bachelor's degree, I continued to strive to find an institute for my master's degree. With unwavering determination, I excelled in entrance exams for post-graduation, proving to myself and the world that I could achieve on my own terms. The Secret, a book about the law of attraction, seemed to work its magic.
After joining a prestigious institution, I encountered a world more welcoming than I'd ever imagined. Supportive professors and classmates propelled me to excel, culminating in a gold medal in Sociology. It was the beginning of a career I'd always dream of.
When it was time for me to enter the professional world, I had many questions regarding my ability. I wasn't sure if I could crack an interview or complete a task assigned to me. However, an interview for a content writer role in an immigration consultancy changed my life. They trusted my abilities, and offered the flexible working hours . This was a privilege exclusive to me. The kindness and understanding of my colleagues reaffirmed my faith in an inclusive society.
While I was discovering a variety of things as a student, a professional, and as a person with Cerebral Palsy, I got many opportunities to inspire people and make a difference to society. Newspaper articles, an award recognising my effort to have ramps in public places and a TEDx Talk were my vehicles to drive the awareness mission.
Eight years later, I stand proud as an executive content writer with an American IT solutions provider in Hyderabad. In all these years as a professional content writer, I can say that my career has been incredibly fulfilling.
Disability has gifted me a unique perspective on life. Everyday experiences, like traveling in a cab, become noteworthy incidents. I aim to challenge assumptions, create awareness, and foster inclusion in society. While the path ahead may hold unanswered questions, I've learned to cherish life's best aspects and find happiness in every endeavor.