‘We have only one life, so live it to the fullest’ – My Take by Krishnakumar PS

In My Take this week, we have 32-year-old Krishnakumar PS, a blogger, motivational speaker, disability rights activist and member of MIND, an organisation that empowers people with disabilities.

I live in Chavara, a small town in Kerala. I was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 when I was six months old. During those days, there was no awareness about disabilities or special schools where I could complete my education. Hence I completed Class 12 through tuitions. My family has been my biggest support.

Things changed seven years back when our family met with a car accident. I lost my father and sister in the accident. Now, I live with my mother who is my pillar of strength.

An all-rounder

I have been an integral part of the NGO MIND (Mobility in Dystrophy) for the past few years. Our centre’s work is spread across Kerala. MIND wants to empower, create awareness about dystrophy, educate and train people for employment and rehabilitation. As an organisation, we have achieved a lot, but still have a long way to go. We want to reach out to more people. Our biggest dream and aim is to rehabilitate as many people as possible. Dearth of funds to carry on with our works is our biggest problem now.

I am an avid movie lover and a big fan of the Malayalam actor Mohanlal. My biggest dream in life was to meet him and recently I did. It was indeed a dream come true for me and also the happiest moment of my life. He is such a humble and down to earth person. I met him as part of an activity conducted by MIND. My next big dream is to travel all over India all by myself. But our public places are inaccessible for people with disabilities. I request the state and central governments to step up to make a difference.

Last year, I was awarded the Youth Icon of 2018 for Social Service from the Kerala government. This recognition is very close to my heart. I also blog in Malayalam and give motivational speeches at campuses and public gatherings. I have covered over 25 venues till date.

Future Plans

Just like any other youngster, I have many dreams and aspirations too. I feel that I am in a privileged spot when compared to many other people with disabilities. I want to make a change to their lives and ensure that they have better standards of living. Accessibility has never really been a problem for me because I have people to support me. But what about thousands of others who come from economically backward families? It is high time that the government makes places accessible and disabled friendly.

I would love to see disabled people in India doing things independently without having to rely on help from someone else. I believe that we have only one life. So live it to the fullest.

We must delete two words from our minds- Impossible and I can’t. There is nothing that we cannot do. We must learn to celebrate even small things in our life. Disabled people must understand that your disability is not a problem but a challenge to do things differently. Every time you feel low, remember the wise words that happiness is a journey and not a destination.

ALSO READ: “My blade are my wings to fly- My Take by Sajesh Krishnan, Kerala’s first blade runner

Watch in Sign Language