"Riding the Emotional Waves: Adolescence and the Onset of Disability" - ambitions vs attenuations

It is with deep reverance and heartfelt reflection that we present the following blogs, penned by Mr. Vinit Shetty. His insightful words encapsulate his remarkable journey through life. Though he is no longer with us, his words remain a testament to the profound journey through life, May his legacy continue to inspire and resonate with all who read them.

Author: Vinit Shetty 

Content Creators:

Editor: Vrindashree Kumar

Illustrator: Vibha G Rao

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“If you surround yourself with the good and righteous, they can only raise you up. If you surround yourself with the others, they will drag you down into the doldrums of mediocrity, and they will keep you there, but only as long as you permit it.”

― Mark Glamack 

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The teenage years are a turbulent period in anyone's life, filled with emotions and challenges that can shape our future. For me, this stage was even more tumultuous as I grappled with the initial stages of a life-altering transition. In this blog, I'll take you on my journey, where emotions played a pivotal role in how I coped with the profound changes in my life.

The Early Years: From Confidence to Shifting Realities

In my early years, I was a confident child, excelling in my studies and taking on crossword puzzles with ease. This confidence stemmed from my mother's disciplined approach to teaching and guiding me. However, our move from Kuwait to India marked a significant shift. My academic performance suffered, and my confidence took a hit. The scolding from teachers further demotivated me, and I began to withdraw.

Sports and Stage Fright: A Complex Relationship

While I loved playing sports, the competitive environment in school discouraged me from participating. I yearned to win but found it elusive within the school setting. In my society, I played without inhibition, but stage fright hindered my performance in front of people, a far cry from my bold younger self, as described by my parents.

Moving Forward: Embracing Teenage Life

Transitioning to my teenage years, I moved from Kuwait to India for further education, staying with my grandmother until my parents returned. It was during this time that my uncle, a doctor, noticed something unusual in my gait, leading to a visit to the hospital and a diagnosis of sensorimotor neuropathy. This marked the beginning of a challenging journey, one that impacted my studies, mobility, and emotions. Some of these problems were considered typical, and I didn't think much of them.

The Rollercoaster of College Life

Fast forward to my college days, which brought a whole new set of challenges. I moved to Mumbai in 1997 to pursue my studies, aiming to get into medical school. However, despite my efforts, I didn't pass the entrance exam and ended up at K V G Dental College in Sullia, Mangalore.

College life was a mixed bag. While I had some great friends who made my time unforgettable, my health issues made it increasingly difficult to keep up with my studies. Practical classes, in particular, were a struggle due to my shaky hands and difficulty standing for long periods.

Supportive Friends: A Silver Lining

College introduced me to supportive friends who helped me navigate the academic hurdles. Vibhor, my closest friend and roommate in the hostel, played a crucial role in this chapter of my life. Together, we tackled coursework, played games, and encouraged each other's growth.

The Struggles of a Hidden Challenge

Behind the scenes, I was dealing with a hidden challenge. My physical limitations, including falls, tremors, and mobility issues, were challenges I often kept hidden from others. I felt the weight of society's expectations and the need to fit in, but my health was deteriorating.

Challenges in Communication

As my health deteriorated, I faced difficulties in communication. My frustration often led to rebellion, making it challenging for my family to understand my emotions and struggles. I yearned for guidance but felt controlled by those around me.

Facing Misunderstandings

Misunderstandings were a constant presence during this period. People labeled me as lazy when, in reality, I was grappling with my deteriorating health and seeking a path to recovery. I wanted understanding, not sympathy, and struggled to express my emotions.

Difficult Choices:Seeking Independence and Unfulfilled Dreams

Ultimately, I made the difficult decision to leave BDS due to my health issues. Although my family initially resisted, they eventually understood my plight. The decision marked a turning point in my life, shifting my focus toward finding new career opportunities. The lack of accessible infrastructure added to my challenges in pursuing my career goals.

Unwanted Sympathy: Navigating Society's Perceptions

One recurring theme in my life has been people offering well-intentioned but ultimately unhelpful suggestions or remedies for my condition. I've learned to navigate these conversations gracefully, even though they can be frustrating.

Moving Forward

Teenage emotions are a complex landscape to navigate, and when disability enters the picture, the journey becomes even more challenging. My story is a reminder that understanding, support, and resilience can help overcome these hurdles. Despite the challenges and the deviation from my initial dreams, I've learned to adapt and find my path. I've discovered new interests and continue to pursue my passion for technology, albeit in a different way. It's a story of adapting to unexpected twists and continuing to pursue one's dreams, no matter the obstacles.

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