I was born with an impaired forearm. While growing up, I was initially unaware of it. Only when I used to visit parks or schools did I begin to realise gradually my limitations. I was then somewhat immature; so, I did not know how to respond. However, I started to sense anxiety creeping into me as I approached adolescence. I will always remember that period of my life. I could tell some girls were quite self-conscious about how they looked; perhaps, this contributed to a feeling of inadequacy. I started to feel like I had a responsibility to address my impairment. I did not want my appearance to be the basis for criticism! I did not want to be labelled as ‘Palak is handicapped’ or have my abilities disregarded. Identifying the likes of us as ‘disabled’ is incorrect.
