Vanaja - overcoming challenges

Vanaja, 26 hails from Bellary. She lives with her family very close to a railway track. About 4 years ago, she was at an unmanned level – crossing when a speeding train took away both her legs. As a result Vanaja spent 3 years at home unable to move and totally dependent on others for activities of daily living. The family was overwhelmed with the situation, hence unable to support Vanaja's recovery from the physical and emotional effects of the accident.
Determined to bring about a change, Vanaja with help of her maternal uncle came to Margadarshi, Bangalore (a hostel for women with disabilities). Here she was trained in making paper bags.
Margadarshi brought Vanaja to Mobility India where she was fitted with artificial limbs (prostheses). They made smaller ones initially so she could practice standing as she had not stood for over 3 years. After 6 months of practice, she came back for the prostheses to suit her original height.

 "I am able to walk now. It feels nice. I do not feel neglected and cut off from society. I am happy now that I am able to meet people, do my work independently and earn some money"