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- juhikothari86
"Paralyzed at 18, Preethi Srinivasan Inspires Change: Transforming Lives with Soulfree"
In a remarkable journey of resilience and determination, Preethi Srinivasan, a former national-level athlete from Chennai, has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals facing irreversible spinal cord injuries. A tragic accident at the age of 18 left Preethi quadriplegic, challenging her once illustrious life as an athlete. Undeterred, she transformed her adversity into an opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of others.
Preethi, now 42, is the driving force behind Soulfree, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing rehabilitation, physical training, counseling, and hope to those grappling with spinal cord injuries. The organization's flagship initiative, Soulfree INSPIRE (Integrated Spinal Rehabilitation Centre), was established in 2013 in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. This 20,000-square-foot facility has become a haven, offering holistic treatment, rehabilitation, medical care, education, counseling, and employment opportunities to over 200 individuals with severe disabilities.
The journey that led Preethi to this pivotal role was filled with challenges. From excelling in sports and academics to suddenly facing life in a wheelchair, she experienced a profound shift. Supported by the unwavering love of her parents, Preethi overcame the initial shock of her spinal cord injury and decided to rebuild her life. However, tragedy struck again when her father passed away, and her mother faced health challenges, thrusting Preethi into the role of caregiver.
Motivated by the lack of support for individuals with spinal cord injuries in India, Preethi embarked on a mission to establish a sanctuary for those in need. Soulfree INSPIRE became a beacon of hope, offering a six-month program that focuses on emotional and physical rehabilitation, restoring self-reliance from physiological, psychological, and socio-economic perspectives.
Soulfree's holistic approach includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, hydrotherapy, sports, counseling sessions, training programs, and more. The organization also conducts knowledge and awareness programs about spinal cord injuries, with a special focus on women. Preethi's advocacy extends beyond the walls of Soulfree, as she collaborates with the Tamil Nadu government to incorporate rehabilitation into the government insurance scheme.
Despite facing personal challenges, Preethi's indomitable spirit has propelled her to pursue her Ph.D. from IIT Madras. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of resilience and the ability to create positive change in the face of adversity. Through Soulfree, she has touched the lives of over 2,500 people, proving that every human life, regardless of ability or disability, holds immeasurable value. Preethi's goal is clear – to ensure that no one dies due to preventable circumstances, such as bedsores or familial constraints.
In the face of a world that often overlooks those with disabilities, Preethi Srinivasan stands as a living example of strength, compassion, and the unwavering belief that every individual deserves a life of dignity.
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