How Dr Radhika Didn't Let This Incurable Disease Define Course Of Her Life

Radhika was enjoying a comfortable childhood when she was struck with a disease that initially took all her power. Being diagnosed with an incurable disease made it hard for her to navigate many of her life's decisions. However, she chose to accept it but did not let it consume her. She is now a trained medical professional who only strives to do better and be better.

In this conversation, Dr Radhika shares with SheThePeople her Lymphedema diagnosis, how she came to terms with her incurable disease, what made her strive for excellence, and how she aims to make a difference in the medical world.

Dr Radhika Lymphedema Story

“I was born with Lymphedema in the early 90s. I had a lump around my groin area which eventually disappeared with a massage. Mom and Dad were relieved. But the elephant wasn’t out of the room just yet, none of us was aware of the real disease that was left undiagnosed.

When I started walking, the size of my feet and legs started growing big. Everyone in the family was worried but had no idea why this was happening. For 6 long years, Mom and Dad carried me all across the country for treatment but nothing could be diagnosed! Finally, it took a dozen tests and 6 years for the doctors to confirm that I was suffering from Lymphedema. Living with a condition which was a mystery for everyone back then, was an ordeal. My parents left no stone unturned for my treatment, people around us would often ask ‘Hey, what happened to her?’ ‘Is she not normal?’ Some even blamed Mom. All these insensitive questions used to take a toll on us, especially me. I felt devastated! ‘Why God, why me?’ I used to think. I still remember looking at other girls and asking Mom, ‘Why can’t I wear those pretty shoes like her?’ Dear Mom had no answer except for a hug! I felt really bad. My confidence, and my individuality, were all messed up. Moreover, people staring at me made me feel uncomfortable and conscious.

Gradually, growing up, I learnt from my doctors that there is no complete cure for this condition, but the treatment can definitely reduce the symptoms. I did not want to be recognised by a disease! I had ambitions that I wanted to fulfil. So, I decided I will not let something that I had no control over define me. Eventually, I accepted myself the way I was and believe me, I felt so good. I thought to myself that if I am going to be this way then why not embrace it? I worked very hard like every other person, and though I had physical and emotional challenges, I managed to achieve my goals, studied at the top institutions in the nation and have come a long way since then.

Now, when someone asks me, ‘Hey, what happened to you?’ I do not try to hide myself, rather, I talk about my condition and educate them as well. I go by the belief that ‘I have Lymphedema, Lymphedema doesn’t have me.’”

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