Name: Ravinder Kaur
Location: West Delhi
Disability: Locomotor (due to medical error)
Family: 11 members, including two working brothers
Life Before Joining Helplife
Introduction:
I am Ravinder Kaur from Delhi. When I was just 8 months old, I had a high fever, and my father took me to a doctor. The doctor gave me an injection and some medicine, and I was sent back home. However, shortly after, my legs stopped functioning. My father tried various treatments for me, but nothing worked. Eventually, he gave up, and since then, I have been living a life with a disability.
Family:
There are 11 members in my family, including two brothers. Both of them work, but despite their jobs, it is very difficult to manage the household expenses. My father is old and his health is not good, so he stays at home and is no longer able to work.
Challenges Due to Disability:
My disability caused me to face many challenges. I was unable to continue my education and couldn’t do any work on my own. I had to rely on others for everything, which made me feel very sad and dependent.
Life After Joining Helplife
Connection with Helplife:
A friend of mine told me about Helplife NGO and helped me connect with them. This brought a significant change in my life. The founder of Helplife, Dr. Neelam Bhardwaj, sent me to the Pingalwara Rehabilitation Centre in Amritsar, where I learned a lot. I learned how to transition from bed to wheelchair and how to use a wheelchair independently. After my time there, I became completely self-reliant, and I am no longer dependent on anyone. I am very happy with my life now.
Tailoring Work:
I already knew tailoring, but I didn’t have a sewing machine. I could only do minor stitching work like sewing buttons or hemming by hand, which earned me very little money. I always wished that I had a sewing machine so I could earn more. My dream was fulfilled by Helplife NGO’s founder, Dr. Neelam Bhardwaj.
Request for a Sewing Machine:
I requested a sewing machine from Dr. Neelam Bhardwaj and explained how having one would allow me to earn a decent income and improve my life. Through Helplife, I finally received a sewing machine. Now, with this machine, I am running my own business, earning good money, and providing a better life for my family.
Self-Reliance and Success in Sports:
After joining Helplife, my life completely changed. I no longer feel like I am disabled. I can now do all my tasks independently. I then joined Modern School, Barakhamba Road, Delhi, where free sports training is provided to people with disabilities. Going there made me realize that we are not meant to just stay at home. I learned to swim there and won a gold medal in a state-level competition. This boosted my confidence even more, and I also joined the women’s basketball training. Our team from Delhi won a bronze medal in a national-level competition in Gwalior.
Message:
Through my story, I want to say that we should not let our disabilities take control of our lives. If we believe in ourselves and receive proper guidance, we can overcome any obstacle and live a happy and independent life.
“Helplife has completely transformed my life. I no longer feel disabled. I am independent and confident in my abilities. With the sewing machine I received, I now support my family and live with dignity. Helplife gave me hope and empowerment when I needed it most.”