I was born in B.S. 2045 as the youngest child of my father, Gokul Prasad Shivakoti, and my mother, Laxmi Shivakoti. From an early age, I was blessed with the love and care of my parents, and my elder brother’s affection made my childhood even brighter. I studied up to grade 5 at Shree Majuwa Primary School, and from grade 6 to 12 at Shree Kalinag Secondary School.
As I grew into adolescence, the physical and emotional changes brought their own challenges. Around this time, a significant change began to shape my life. My elder brother had night blindness, and one night, while walking outside, I realized I had the same problem. Filled with worry and uncertainty, I continued my daily life, determined to move forward. Despite these difficulties, I completed my grade 12 education. However, during exams my vision started becoming blurry and this made writing difficult, and my results were not what I had hoped for.
When I visited the hospital, the doctor informed me that my condition was congenital and that my vision would gradually deteriorate. Over time, the doctor’s prediction proved true, and by the age of 23, I had completely lost my sight. Until then, I had been my parents’ great hope and pride. But when I developed this condition, my first concern was how it might affect them. I hid my situation as long as I could and even went to the hospital alone. The passing of my father brought deep grief, yet I found a small comfort in the fact that he never learned about my vision loss. He had left the entire responsibility of the family on my shoulders, and I felt the weight of it deeply.
On one hand, my own challenges were growing, and on the other, the responsibilities of my family pressed heavily on me. I had no one to confide in, and I could not share my struggles even with neighbors or friends for fear of ridicule. Some people behaved rudely, some offered discouraging words, but others encouraged me to persevere.
Amid all these struggles, I never gave up on seeking a future for myself. My desire to study never waned. During this time, the support of my teachers and peers became invaluable. Particularly during grades 11 and 12, the school administration and teachers supported me financially, emotionally, socially, and mentally, inspiring me to keep moving forward.
As my vision worsened and my family’s financial situation deteriorated, I faced even greater challenges. Yet I continued to seek opportunities. During this time, I learned about the groups formed by the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal and joined one. This proved to be a turning point in my life. Through this, I reached TSDCBD in Kirtipur, where I strengthened myself mentally and learned computer and Braille skills, gaining a sense of self-reliance. Meeting peers with similar experiences boosted my confidence, and one friend, in particular, consistently supported and encouraged me, bringing a positive transformation to my life.
During this period, I also had the opportunity to meet the sisters of the Nepal Disabled Women’s Association (NDWA). They recognized my passion for learning and arranged for free accommodation and meals at their hostel. With their support, I moved to Kathmandu and began searching for a suitable campus. Eventually, I enrolled at Shree Ganesh Multiple Campus. Although the initial challenges were significant, my determination helped gain the trust of everyone around me.
Driven by my love for learning and persistent effort, I steadily progressed. The care of my teachers, the campus environment, and the support from NDWA felt like the embrace of a family. Inspired by my teachers, I prepared for the Teacher Training Permit and succeeded. I also began preparing for the Teacher Service Commission. Unfortunately, due to my mother’s declining health, I was unable to achieve the final result I had hoped for at that time.
Later, I learned that a relief teaching post had opened at Shree Manohar Secondary School. I applied, and through hard work, guidance, and self-confidence, I succeeded. This allowed me to establish myself as a teacher. Simultaneously, I completed my undergraduate studies.
Currently, while working at the school, I receive love and respect from colleagues, administration, and students alike. I feel confident more than ever. NDWA not only helped me build my confidence but it has also helped me to pursue my dreams. The time I spent at the NDWA rehabilitation played a significant role in helping me become self-reliant and confident.
All the successes I have achieved so far are deeply rooted in the support, encouragement, and care of the Nepal Disabled Women Association. In the days to come, I hope to continue receiving their guidance and love. Even if I am physically distant, I will always remain emotionally connected to this organization.