As I settled into my seat on the bus, the rhythmic hum of the engine and the gentle sway of the
vehicle lulled me into a state of melancholy. The 10 hour break journey in morning back to my
Homoeopathy medical college seemed endless, a reminder of long days and sleepless nights that
lay ahead.
As the bus hurtled towards my college, I gazed out the window, watching the landscape blur by.
With only three hours left to reach my destination, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. That’s
when young woman boarded the bus, her frail frame and worn-out expression a stark contrast to
the vibrant scenery outside. She settled beside me, her eyes fixed on a tiny bundle in her arms.
Despite the exhaustion etched on her face, her eyes sparkled with a deep love for her child. Our
conversation began, and I found myself drawn into her world, forgetting the journey ahead.
Her name was Aparajita, 19 years old mother of a six-month-old baby. As we began to talk I
learned that she was living with chronic kidney disease diagnosed in her pregnancy and getting
dialysis for weekly 2 days. A Condition that had significantly impacted her life.
Aparajita shared her story she is youngest all her siblings, studied till 5th class who had interest
in studies but family situations made her to discontinue. Married at age of 18 who lives in joint
family.
Aparajita’s eyes would often glaze over as she described the endless hospital visits, dialysis
sessions, and the medication regimen that had become her new normal. She use to travel 4 hours
from her place by alternative way and meeting the demands of motherhood.
As She spoke, I couldn’t help but notice the emotional and physical burdens she carried. She
talked about the fatigue, the pain, and the uncertainty that came with her condition. They were
the days she felt like giving up. Yet, despite the challenges, she remained committed to her
child’s well-being and her own health. Her love for her baby was palpable, and it was clear that
she would do anything to ensure her child’s happiness.
Aparajita lived with her husband and in-laws in a joint family. Her husband worked as a daily
wage laborer, and her in-laws managed the household. Despite their best efforts, the family
struggled to make ends meet.
Aparajita’s in-laws were traditional and conservative, often prioritizing family expectations over
individual needs. They would sometimes criticize for her inability to manage household chores
or care for her son due to her health condition.
Aparajita’s husband, while loving and supportive, often found himself torn between his loyalty to
his family and his concern for Aparajita’s well-being. He would try to mediate between Aparajita
and his parents, but sometimes struggled to assert himself.
The lack of understanding and support from her in-laws took a toll on her mental and emotional
well-being. She felt isolated, alone, and burdened by her responsibilities. Despite this, she
continued to prioritize her son’s needs and her own health, determined to provide a better life for
him.
As Mother Teresa said ” The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being
unloved.”
As Aparajita spoke about her son, her eyes sparkled with hope and love. I want him to be happy,
to chase his dreams and never give up, she said, her voice trembling with emotion. I want to see
him grow into a kind and compassionate person, to make a difference in the world.
I listened intently, feeling a deep connection to her words. “What do you hope for his future?” I
asked, curious about her aspirations for her child.
Aparajita’s face lit up with a warm smile. I hope he’ll find his passion, his purpose in life. I want
him to be surrounded by people who love and support him, to have a family of his own one day.
Her voice cracked as she added, If God permits, I wish to stay with him, to see him grow and
flourish. To be there for every milestone, every triumph and every struggle.
Tears welled up in her eyes, and I felt a lump form in my throat. You will, I said softly, trying to
offer some comfort. You’re an incredible mother, Aparajita. Your love and devotion will guide
him through life’s journey
Aparajita’s eyes locked onto mine, filled with a deep longing. I just want to be there for him, she
whispered, her voice barely audible. To hold his hand, to wipe away his tears, to celebrate his
victories. If God grants me that gift, I’ll consider myself blessed.
Aparajita’s love for her child was the driving force behind her determination to stay strong. She
would do anything to ensure her child’s happiness, even if it meant putting her own needs
second. Aparajita’s selflessness was inspiring, and it made me reflect on the power of love in our
lives. Love can be a powerful motivator, pushing us to overcome even the most daunting
challenges.
As a medical student, I have seen pregnancy cases their journey from conceiving to delivery. I
realized how precious pregnancy is, not just biologically but emotionally. Every moment, every
decision, every challenge – it’s a journey that shapes lives.
I felt a sense of awe and respect for Aparajita’s resilience, who embodied the true meaning of her
name – Aparajita, the unconquerable one.
A Bit of silence surrounded us for some while, She opened her Bag and offered me A oliga,
sweet item. I opened my eyes widened and asked what is oliga ? , Aparajita chuckled, you don’t
know about oliga, it is a traditional item prepared in her region. She explained the process of
making oliga’s from making dough to frying the sweets treats to perfection.
I was fascinated by the flavours and textures of the oliga. I love the combination of sweet and
crunch.
In return I offered sweet, which is famous in our place known as malai khaja. She loved it !!!
and asked the preparation of it. In return I smiled that said I know only eating and not preparing,
she laughed A loud.
As we talked, a connection formed between us. Aparajita’s story touched my heart, and I felt a
sense of empathy and compassion. I realized that, as a future healthcare provider, I wanted to
approach each patient with kindness, understanding, and respect. Our conversation was a
reminder that “medicine is not just about treating Disease but about caring for people.”
As the bus approached her stop, I felt a pang of sadness. Aparajita noticed the bus slowing down
and began to gather her belongings. I thanked her for sharing her story. As we parted ways, she
smiled weakly and said, “Take care of yourself.” The bus doors opened, and she stepped out,
disappearing into the crowd before I could even process the depth of our encounter.
As I Gaze her Departure , I felt a sense of gratitude for the unexpected encounter. I knew that our
brief meeting would stay with me forever. I realized that life is indeed unscripted, full of
unexpected twists and turns. But it’s in these moments of uncertainty that we discover our
strength, resilience, and capacity for love.
