“Overcoming amputation after electrocution, this youth wins hearts”

By BHARATI PAWASKAR | JUNE 18, 2024, 12:11 AM IST

PANAJI
Despite facing the immense challenges of being a person with a disability and surviving a high-tension electric shock, Ritesh Narayan Vaigankar never allowed himself to succumb to the belief that there was no place for someone like him in society. While his family provided strong support, it was his inner drive that fuelled his determination to push forward.

Born on February 9, 1988, at Bicholim, Ritesh suffered a massive electrocution with a 33 KV high-tension power transmission line on October 23, 2003. He woke up in the hospital to find 70% of his body burned.

“I needed assistance with almost everything I did so freely before the accident. By that time, I had severe bed sores on my body and muscle contractures. I had to undergo loads of physio at the hospital during the ongoing treatment. The changes were challenging. My severely injured right leg was, eventually amputated,” shares Ritesh, 35.

Post amputation, the changes were challenging. Ritesh needed assistance with tasks he previously did with ease. He spent months learning to walk with the new prosthetic leg. It took him almost three years to recover.

“During my time in the hospital, Dr Savio George Barreto was like a shining light to me. He didn’t just treat me, he supported me every step of the way. With Dr Barreto’s help, and having my dad and brother always by my side, I saw my wounds heal and my health getting better,” recalls Ritesh. Belief in God and support from his family helped him to maintain a positive ‘I can do it’ attitude.

Ritesh is not just a survivor, but a thriver, capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes his way. After three years of hospitalization and 10 surgeries including right-leg amputation, Ritesh was left with electrical burn scars. Firstly, he decided to complete his schooling at Shree Shantadurga Higher Secondary School in Bicholim and did a diploma in electronic and telecommunication engineering at Government Polytechnic.

“During my bedridden days, I made a promise to myself that I would not let my circumstances dictate my future. Instead, I set my sights on completing my studies and making a meaningful contribution to the world. It wasn’t an easy journey by any means. I not only completed my education but also secured a position as an executive in an MNC, Siemens Ltd at Verna in 2011, where I honed my skills for six years. From 2017 onwards, I have been working as a vocational instructor at a technical institute, teaching and inspiring young minds to develop their skills and become self-dependent. I am fulfilling my purpose of empowering others and making a difference in their lives,” says Ritesh.

“Though initially apprehensive about how people would perceive me, I chose to persevere and not let my disability hinder my education and future opportunities. Additionally, I’ve worked on building my self-confidence and embracing my scars as part of my story. While it took time to adjust to the changes in my appearance, I’ve learned to accept and even embrace them as symbols of my strength. Overall, while the challenges of living with a disability have been significant, I’ve taken proactive steps to overcome them and embrace life to the fullest.

“My motivation stems from observing remarkable persons with disabilities who have inspired countless others. Witnessing their impact has fuelled my desire to inspire others, even if it means reaching just one person among a thousand. I believe that even a single spark of inspiration can set off a chain reaction of positivity, making a difference far beyond its initial reach.

“I would love to see a mindset of inclusivity and acceptance, especially towards persons with disabilities. A future generation where children are raised in such a way that when they see a person with disabilities they should not think that he/she has a problem or he/she is not normal. Instead, I hope they recognize the unique strengths and capabilities of every individual, regardless of their physical differences,” states Ritesh.

Youngest in his family, Ritesh’s brother Keshav became his strongest pillar. Keshav paused his studies to take care of Ritesh like a mother, staying by his side throughout the hospital stay. “I owe everything to him for helping me become who I am today,” says a thankful Ritesh who had never imagined travelling or going on trips and visiting places.

“I enjoy travelling to new places, climbing hills, riding bikes and swimming. I’ve been to over 10 States, and these adventures remind me that there’s a big, beautiful world out there, ready for us to explore and have fun in, no matter what challenges we may face,” says Ritesh, who is actively pursuing the possibility of getting a prosthetic leg with a running blade, as it represents a tangible step towards completing his dream of running once again.

Ritesh has earned recognition as a State and district-level champion. “Notably, I clinched second place, securing a silver medal in the All Goa Civil Service Tournament 2024,” he said.

He creates awareness through his blog https://beingritz.home.blog/ which is dedicated to disability-related issues. He spends time sketching and painting, telling stories with colours and shapes. He is also good at finding smart ways to get around problems and deal with tough situations.

“I believe that everyone has their own challenges and limitations; nobody is perfect. Despite challenges, I am determined to make the world a better and more inclusive place for everyone, including people like me. There was a time when I felt the need to hide my burned skin and shy away from social interactions, but as time passed, I realized the abundance of love and acceptance in the world. This journey of self-acceptance has been empowering, and I stand confidently in my own skin. I hope to be remembered as someone who never gave up and being a light for people who are losing hope in life,” concludes Ritesh.