Redefining Ability: My Journey Beyond Limitations

It has been a year today since Mr. Vinit Shetty left us. It is with deep reverence and heartfelt reflection that we present the following blogs, penned by him. 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

Guest Contributors: Vasanthi Shetty, Sudhakar Shetty, Jayanthi Hegde, Shreya Shetty

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“Disability cannot stop me from becoming a complete personality” — Samyak Lalit

Adjusting to life with a disability is a transformative journey—one that reshapes your mindset, redefines your goals, and challenges you to create meaning amidst adversity. This is my story of adapting to life with sensory motor neuropathy and finding strength in the face of daily difficulties. 

Adjusting to a New Reality

Coming to terms with my condition was one of the most daunting phases of my life. The realisation that I couldn’t rewind time or undo my circumstances was heavy. Everyday actions, like climbing stairs or buttoning a shirt—tasks most take for granted—became monumental challenges. Frustration and isolation crept in. 

But with time, I came to understand a profound truth: my disability does not define me; my response to it does. Acceptance became my anchor, helping me move beyond mourning what was lost and focus on building a fulfilling life. It wasn’t a straightforward journey, but it was empowering. Letting go of “what could have been” helped me reclaim control over “what can be”.

Living with daily challenges

Living with a disability comes with a unique set of hurdles. The spaces around us—the flats we live in, the offices we work in, and the public areas we navigate—are riddled with barriers.

For years, my home in Sion was a constant battle—cramped lifts, narrow doorways, and the exhaustion of climbing three flights of stairs daily.

Even the seemingly luxurious amenities of my later residence in Powai were marred by their inaccessibility. Swimming pools, clubhouses, and courts may promise grandeur, but what’s the point if they exclude those with disabilities? 

It’s a question of mindset: Is architectural education equipping professionals to prioritize inclusivity? Are planners and designers considering the lives of persons with disabilities in their creations? Accessibility isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a necessity for equality.

Adapting and Finding Independence

Despite these challenges, I found ways to adapt. Reorganizing my living space to keep essentials within reach restored a semblance of independence. At work, where fire drills demanded mobility running up and down the stairs that was almost impossible for me, I persisted, questioning why accessibility isn’t prioritized even in critical safety measures. 

Jobs for persons with disabilities remain painfully scarce. My stint at a call center was not my dream, but it was a way to engage myself and contribute to my family. Even when pay was minimal, the opportunity to provide for my loved ones filled me with purpose. These struggles shaped my resilience and pushed me to explore alternative ways to thrive.

The Joy of Technology and Creativity

In the comfort of my home, I found solace in technology. Movies, gadgets, and the vast expanse of the internet became my sanctuary. Weak muscles required specialised equipment, but they never stopped me from exploring. Creativity flourished as I stored cherished memories, found joy in digital hobbies, and cultivated interests that brought light into challenging days.

Navigating Public Spaces: The Fight for Inclusion

Venturing outside was no easy feat. Uneven pavements, inaccessible transportation, and a lack of wheelchair-friendly spaces turned every outing into an ordeal. Yet, places like malls, designed with basic accessibility in mind, gave me rare moments of inclusion and independence. These experiences solidified my belief in the transformative power of inclusive design. 

Why aren’t fire-safe elevators or simple additions like ramps, grab rails, and wide doorways more common? These changes aren’t just conveniences—they are lifelines for people like me. Advocacy for such measures is essential, not just for personal ease but to create a society where everyone can thrive.

Resilience Through Advocacy

Through this journey, I’ve learned the value of resilience and the power of speaking up. Advocating for accessibility has become a mission—not just for my benefit, but for every individual facing similar struggles. I’ve embraced patience, celebrated small victories, and grown stronger with every challenge. 

Today, I approach life with renewed hope. From enjoying a favorite movie to cherishing moments with loved ones, I’ve learned to find happiness in the little things. Sharing my story has become my purpose—an effort to inspire others to see challenges not as roadblocks, but as opportunities for growth and creativity.

If there’s one message I want to leave behind, it’s this: Disability does not define you. Your strength, resilience, and ability to adapt do. Together, we can create a world that celebrates differences, removes barriers, and ensures everyone has the tools to succeed. Let us build a society where accessibility isn’t just a privilege but a right, ensuring no one is left behind.

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