“She will never be normal like you and me”
The words echoed again and again for days and months….till the reality settled in my mind. But did I for once think that I will stop trying….trying to teach her to learn just like the others did? Will I stop providing her with the opportunities and platforms for learning various skills? Will I give up on trying to make her as NORMAL as possible?…No.
This was March1997, when PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder) was not well known or heard of. People heard of Autism, specially classical cases, which my daughter did not fit in. Hence there was hope in a corner of my mind with traces of denial which justified that she is not really autistic!!! She may become NORMAL one day!
More doctors we went to, more confused we were….this is when I met a wise speech and language therapist, who gave a valuable tip: “look for the child’s areas of concern and start working hard on them on daily basis”.
That day my focus shifted….I organized the day in such a way that I could work on various areas like speech, gross motor skills, social skills….EVERYDAY.
At the same time I felt the need to meet up friends and spend time with them and have fun in my own way. This raised a few eyebrows….how can she smile so much? She goes to the gym, comes to parties, acts in a play….does she even realize her misfortune???? Little did they know, that I was mastering the skill in me to do my best for my child. I did not feel guilty….I felt contented😄
Nivedita's Blogs 
You did the best you could for your daughter… Kudos to your belief in her and I salute your strength… and determination.
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It is so much of an inspiration for so many parents
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You are an inspiration. Kudos to your strength.
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I know this journey is tough…. but your determination and hard work has brought Medha at this stage. Your ever smiling face gives her strength… I have never seen you saying, “Medha can’t do this.”… Your persistent efforts are commendable. ❤
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I don’t have anything to say here. The thought of stepping into your shoes even for a minute makes me jittery.
You inspire people, keep up the hard work. We draw strength from you.
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Love the way you have written about your experience…. so matter of fact….. yet you alone knew the journey!
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God chose the right mother for Medha… she couldn’t have been in better hands!!
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The incredible journey‘s are of those who take the roads least travelled!
You both are perfect examples of such traveller’s n I’m so happy to hv been yr
co traveller in this LONG JOURNEY. Medha continue to grow n do all that you want, you are a lucky girl to hv a mom like yours!
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So well written. Love you, always
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Nivea you are incredible.Reading this gives a real insight into the journey which you you have undertaken and come out a real winner.Lot to learn from you and I hope this brings hope and inspiration to parents who are bringing up a special child God Bless dear
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I don’t know how to express my feeling after reading your article….I have so much respect, love towards you dear…you are an incredible mom.
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Straight from your heart to mine! You taught us to be better educators and inspired us all the way. Medha n you made our learning complete, because you believed in what Medha could do and made us believe the same. Somewhere, while we taught Medha, you taught us too. Thank you for enhancing our learning curve, Nivedita🙏
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Nivedita you are a true hero in my eyes … From the time I met Medha and you in 2005… I have admired you always for your zeal for life , your positivity and your constant focus on your children . It’s who you are that has led Medha to reach where she is beating all odds . You my dear are a super mom and a true hero ! I am so glad you decided to write your story and your journey… I am sure it will inspire many. ❤️
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Thank you so much for your encouraging words Priti🙏
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I know Nivedita and her struggle from her first day .. I felt god gave her this challenge coz only she had the courage to accept it and give her best . I have seen you fighting with the nature which is actually very tuff .
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The valuable tip was a good reason to feel excited about as this showed you the path ahead .. My respect to a Mom..🙏
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Your words flow from the heart.
Hence they touch the heart too.
Just read 4 chapters
Keep writing
Maybe you can make a book of it someday
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