When Policy Barriers Meet Personal Determination

Twenty-eight-year-old Dr. Gauri Vivekanand Swami, born to government teacher parents in Latur, Maharashtra, faced her first vision challenge at age six with Amblyopia and myopia in her left eye. Despite early treatments at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad, complete recovery remained elusive. Inspired by her grandfather, a science teacher, she pursued medicine at Vilasrao Deshmukh Government Medical College.

Her medical journey took an unexpected turn during her third year when she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa in both eyes. Though initially devastated, Dr. Gauri persevered through her MBBS, managing night duties with a torch and support from understanding colleagues.

After graduation, she worked as a Medical Officer at SEARCH, serving tribal communities in Gadchiroli. When preparing for NEET PG entrance exams, she adapted by using magnification tools and bright screens, securing a 76 percentile. However, when she went to JJ Hospital in Mumbai for her disability assessment, the results were shocking. The hospital authorities mistakenly deemed her ineligible for medical courses, even though she had completed her MBBS degree. The decision was not just a personal blow, but a violation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Through her mentor Dr. Vikas Shivsharan, she connected with Eyeway Advocacy Officer and Mission Accessibility, led by Advocate Rahul Bajaj. While Rahul took up her case, challenging the unfair decision, the Eyeway Advocacy Officer motivated her so that she would not lose hope. This intervention led to a reassessment, overseen by Dr. Satendra Singh, a disability rights activist in medical education. The new assessment confirmed her eligibility, securing her admission to Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College for Preventive and Social Medicine.

Now pursuing her postgraduate studies, Dr. Gauri aims to make healthcare accessible to marginalized populations, transforming her personal challenges into a mission of service. Her story demonstrates how targeted advocacy can overcome systemic barriers, enabling qualified professionals with disabilities to continue their careers in medicine.

Team Eyeway