Meet Dr Fathima Asla, a woman who defied the odds to pursue her childhood dream of gracing the ramp despite battling a rare genetic disorder called osteogenesis imperfecta. Despite facing over 50 fractures in her lifetime, she refused to let her condition define her and instead chose to chase her aspirations with unwavering determination. Today, she stands tall as a highly respected medical professional, inspiring countless others with her resilience and determination.
In conversation with SheThePeople, Dr. Fathima Asla recounted her journey in her own words.
A Journey Of Resilience
"It was my childhood dream to appear on the ramp! I couldn’t control my laughter because people were cheering, clapping, and calling, Pathu!! As it goes, ‘one can never escape from their heart. So it’s better to listen to what it has to say.’ I remember that I always used to dream of appearing on the ramp, and I found my way back to that dream!
My bones are fragile, and I had my first fracture on the 3rd day of my birth. After that, I had more than 50 fractures. Being born with a rare genetic disorder called osteogenesis imperfecta, I stood out from others due to my unique circumstances. But I made sure to dream big and achieve them.
People said, ‘You aren’t meant for ramps,’ but I made sure to slay it with my smile and confidence! Living with a brittle bone illness, I was often timid, reserved, and afraid to speak up for fear of not being liked. My condition also caused me emotional distress. Despite this, I was inspired by the doctors who treated me and decided to pursue a career in medicine. Unfortunately, my illness prevented me from being accepted into medical school, leading me to pursue a career in homoeopathy upon my doctor’s recommendation.
Today, I am a highly respected medical professional and am currently pursuing a specialisation in homoeopathy. Through my journey, I have learned to accept myself and have gained confidence, inspiring and influencing others with disabilities who have also faced adversity.
My confidence gave me the courage to ace the ramp, and I did it with grace! This illness sometimes distresses me emotionally, but I will never let it knock on my spirits."
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