I'm More Than My Disability: Declared Dead Thrice, Virali Modi Fought Her Way In Life

Virali Modi is a force to reckon with. Motivational speaker, author and also India's first wheelchair-using model, Modi has been a torchbearer in more ways than one.

In this conversation with SheThePeople, Virali Modi recalls the events that made her terminally ill, how she fought her way into life, what kept her inspired as she set out to chase her dreams, and how she uses her journey and goodwill to spread awareness around disability.

Virali Modi Journey

"I was 15 when I fell terminally ill and was rushed to hospital. I was declared dead thrice. Doctors somehow managed to revive me but I slipped in a coma for 23 days. I survived but was left paralysed from the neck down.

My friends and relatives abandoned me. I faced depression and had suicidal thoughts, but my parents stood by my side. They taught me self-love and self-acceptance. With therapy and their support, I slowly regained the use of my upper body.

I always wanted to be a model, so in 2014, I participated in the Miss Wheelchair India pageant, proudly securing second place. Although my modelling career didn't take off as I hoped, I started writing and sharing my experiences with people.

Finding a partner was a challenge due to my disability. I even went through an abusive relationship, which left me broken. After healing, I turned to a dating app for the last time and made it clear on my profile that I was looking for something long-term.

Fate intervened when I stumbled on Kshitij's profile, captivated by his profile picture holding a kitten with a partial view of his face. Trusting my intuition, I swiped right.

In June 2022, we started chatting, I discovered an unprecedented level of compatibility. When I shared my desire for something substantial, he reciprocated those feelings. We decided to meet up. He came over to my place, and we had the most relaxed time binge-watching Harry Potter.

As our bond grew stronger, in a unique proposal, I boldly declared that he didn't have any other option but to marry me, playfully emphasising that he wouldn't find a better match.

His family showed immense support, and eagerly asked "Shaadi kab kar rahe ho?", within minutes of the meeting. I've formed a close friendship with my mother-in-law, often having sleepovers at her place. Additionally, Kshitij's friends, without prompting, ensure that their outings accommodate my accessibility needs.

The entire family welcomed me warmly, culminating in our engagement in November 2022. I'm looking forward to a beautiful journey with our wedding at the end of this year."

Suggested reading: Waking Up From Coma, Seeing Daylight Again Is A Privilege I Don’t Take For Granted