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Paralysed to Liberated: Deepa Malik's Reinvention
6 Oct
Summary
- Deepa Malik learned to live differently after two spinal tumors caused paralysis.
- She became a role model by building businesses and challenging accessibility.
- Malik prefers 'wheelchair liberated' to 'wheelchair bound'.
Deepa Malik, India's first female Paralympic medallist, discussed her profound life changes on Herbalife India's "Live Your Best Life, Unscripted." Following two spinal tumors that led to paralysis, Malik had to rebuild her life, learning basic daily functions and rediscovering her identity.
Initially facing societal perceptions of disability as a burden, Malik chose to become a role model. Her journey of reinvention began with a food business and motorcycling, eventually leading her to competitive swimming and athletics. She reframes her experience, preferring 'wheelchair liberated' over 'wheelchair bound' to emphasize mobility and independence.
Malik's athletic pursuits were not linear; she adapted by switching disciplines when necessary. A setback before the London Paralympics highlighted the need for broader preparation beyond just training, encompassing administration and sports science. She views success not just as medals but as honest effort and personal growth.
She emphasizes the critical role of help from coaches, family, and others, viewing support as a human necessity. Malik's primary motivation was her daughters, wanting them to grow in a happy home. Her core philosophy, "The more I learnt, the more I lived," underscores her continuous adaptation and engagement with life.
