The past year has been unique in many ways. I joined the Princeton team of Dr. Reddy’s in March 2020, right when the pandemic began to spread across the US. It was the first time that I was on a job and started working remotely without having met my team members in person! I have not yet met my team members in person! My family and I have also been deeply involved in providing COVID-19 relief to our community through a foundation set up by my son, Ankit.
On August 15, 2016, Ankit was in a motorcycle accident where he lost his left arm, and suffered multiple hip and leg fractures. He was in the hospital and in rehab for nearly seven months and has undergone 29 surgeries. But throughout his recovery, Ankit was constantly thinking about young children who suffer trauma, and how he can help them, having experienced the pain himself. So, in June 2018, he organised an event, Feeding the Homeless, and set up the non-profit A J Gohil Family Foundation right after. The foundation primarily helps young children with chronic illnesses and disabilities.
It was hard as we understood the full impact of Ankit’s trauma over the years that followed, and what it would take for him to get back to his life and what would be his new normal. But we adapted, most of all Ankit. He has demonstrated that he is a fighter, the strongest there is; that life’s greatest struggles are not in situations or moments, but in overcoming the self and believing that you can be better today despite your past. Eventually, I encouraged my son to go back to university and support his decision to live independently during this time. He lives life to the fullest and is himself again!
The journey has not been simple or easy. But over time, I’ve learned what it means to move forward with strength and courage, putting my trust in the One who created us. I have fought discouragement through my faith and do not take a single day for granted anymore. I have slowed down my pace of living, cherishing my loved ones and giving myself freely to them.
I believe there is great purpose to all this, and eagerly wait for it to unfold.