Walking the Path of Change (My journey with SNEHA)

-  Dishankita Wagh
Documentation Coordinator, Maternal and Child Health - Healthy Cities Program

I found myself confronted with the stark realities that various communities grapple with in their daily lives. Each community, a unique tapestry of struggles and resilience, painted a profound picture of the challenges that often remain unseen. The pursuit of health, a fundamental right, appeared elusive for many, shrouded in the darkness of ignorance and a lack of awareness. As I delved into the intricacies of public health, I couldn't help but be shattered by the enormity of the problems faced by these communities. The disparity was palpable, and the enormity of our impact seemed minuscule in comparison. Yet, amidst the despair, I witnessed a dual narrative unfold. Some resigned to their fate, accepting suffering as an inevitable part of life, while others defied the odds, striving to extricate themselves and extend a helping hand to their fellow beings. It was when I stepped into the heart of these communities, engaging at grassroots levels, that I truly comprehended the meaning of privilege. The narrow lanes, choked with stagnant water, litter, and the detritus of daily life, also doubled as homes for many. It was an eye-opening experience, offering profound insights into life in these neglected corners of the earth.

The juxtaposition of unhealthy surroundings, economic hardships, and pervasive violence underscored the harsh reality faced by these inhabitants. Yet, amid this adversity, I discerned a glimmer of hope. The resilience of those ready to transform their lives, eagerly awaiting a guiding light, left an indelible mark
on my consciousness. People aspired for change, yearning for a healthier, more fulfilling life. However, the journey was far from facile, entangled in a web of misconceptions, societal stigmas, meager incomes, nutritional deficiencies, and a dearth of accessible amenities such as schools and hospitals.

The challenge lay not only in changing lifestyles but also in dispelling deeply ingrained myths that spanned generations. Social stigmas proved formidable barriers, and the lack of financial resources exacerbated the struggle. Accessibility to basic necessities became a distant dream for many. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, the gratification derived from altering even a handful of minds among thousands was immeasurable. The realization that efforts invested in transformation were not in vain brought a profound sense of fulfillment. Witnessing the communities rise, determined to improve and sustain their lives after receiving proper education, marked a paradigm shift from an era when doors remained closed to communication. Contributing to the collective effort to uplift the underprivileged brought immense pleasure. It underscored the significance of teamwork in extending a helping hand to those in need. Hands joined together, pulling each other out of the distress that enveloped their lives. It became evident that everyone, in direct or indirect ways, played a crucial role in making people aware of their inherent worth as humans.

The joy derived from these efforts reached its pinnacle when the radiant smile of a child mirrored the improvement in their health. When parents, overwhelmed with gratitude, teared up at the sight of their child thriving, pride surged within us. The understanding that our actions could foster empathy among community members, encouraging support during times of hardship, evoked a deep sense of accomplishment. Countless intangible experiences, impossible to articulate in written words, found a permanent dwelling in my heart. A silent wish lingered - a wish to witness these communities not just rise but soar to the horizons of a healthy life. In this collective endeavor, each hand extended becomes a catalyst for change, forging a path towards a brighter and healthier future.