Aryaman

20 | Single | Undergraduate student

I have had chronic sciatica pain for over 2 years now, so much so that I am unable to sit. I have been to numerous acclaimed orthopaedics, neurophysicians, physiotherapists and pain management specialists across Delhi and Mumbai. No treatment has worked yet, not even opioid medication. Confusing and contradictory diagnoses, along with losing a huge amount of time in hospital visits, medical scans, and treatment sessions - all to no avail - is a constant struggle, especially since I am in my formative college years.

However, I've realized that giving up is just not an option and I must make the best of what is. I've been standing for 12-14 hours a day - in classrooms, at meals, in flights once the seatbelt sign is switched off - but I've managed to work at nearly full capacity. I interned at NUS Singapore last summer, and will be interning with Bain & Co. in Bangalore this summer. Standing desks, stacks of books, holding my laptop in one hand - I've done whatever I possibly can to not let my medical condition slow me down. I've maintained a 9.5+ GPA at IIT Bombay and am also currently building a startup.

A large part of my fortitude is derived from extra supportive friends and family, who've always pulled me up and enabled me to face this situation with a positive mindset. I wouldn't be here without them. I hope I can play a similar role in your life!