While in hospital, I developed tetanus and my jaw locked. I became a burden to my parents who are nomadic tribal shepherds. I needed to be carried everywhere. Mukti’s mobile medical van visited our village and, although he wasn’t a Christian, my father asked the people to pray for me. The person who prayed for me told us about how Mukti cares for children with disabilities like mine.
I came to live at Mukti when I was 5. Initially I missed my family. My sisters did not attend school and they married very young, and my brother studied until 10th grade. Because of Mukti, however, I now have a Masters degree in Social Work.
When I was six I received a prosthetic leg and I also underwent 6 surgeries on my jaw but my jaw was crooked. I had further surgery at 13 but my jaw was worse. In 2011 Glenda Cresswick from Australia took a special interest in me. We went to the Christian Medical College in Vellore, one of the best hospitals in India where I have had 4 surgeries.
After completing my Masters degree I felt that working for Mukti as an Education Co-ordinator and Social Worker was a contribution I could make and it was a great joy to serve here. Mukti has shaped me as a student and also as staff. Mukti will always be in my heart, even as a child I have proudly introduced myself as “Mukta from Mukti.”
Now, as I move into a new chapter of my life, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I cherish the memories and experiences Mukti has given me, and I am eager to use my skills to continue making a positive impact on the lives of others. As I move forward, I will forever be “Mukta from Mukti”.
When I look back, I am reminded of Psalm 116:12:
“How can I repay the Lord for all His goodness to me?”