Page 39 - Stories_of_Older_Adults

I N S P I R I N G S T O R I E S O F T H E O L D E R G E N E R A T I O N

His sickness was validated by three neurologists, at the age of
48, not long after he had started his PhD. Yet, he did think of
giving up his childhood dream of becoming a ‘Doctor’. "After a
few months, I have changed my mind. I need to show them that the
sickness does not matter," Dr Arul said.

Despite the trials and tribulations, Dr Arul completed his PhD
in two and a half years. Recalling the journey of fighting off
his sickness for 12 years, Dr Arul said that his medication dose
increased dramatically within the first two years in order to
control his symptoms. Currently Dr Arul is coping well with
his sickness, thanks to the latest treatment – Deep Brain
Stimulation.
Dr Arulselvan completed his
master in Bagan Serai & PhD in
Tamil Classical Literature.
Dr Arul accepted his sickness as a part of his life
process. “This is God’s wish,” he said. It is possible
that it is the reason he is able to relate his story in
a calm demeanour. Meanwhile, it was also his
responsibility as a father that pushed him to face
his sickness bravely. “My kids are still small, I need
to take care of them.” Other than his beloved
daughters, his students need him too. Dr Arul
said that he is an educator, in other words, a role
model to others. Dr Arul hopes to inspire people Dr Arulselvan Raju with his students
struggling in their life to think positively, and the
easiest way to start off is to use fewer negative
words.

“ Online interview session with Dr Arulselvan

There is no point to stay put and do nothing about it, life still goes on. Be open-minded and embrace
challenges. Here I am giving my life, as an example.
- Dr Arulselvan Raju

29