New Delhi, Feb. 22 -- I was born with a frail constitution. My family didn't believe I would ever live a normal, healthy life. My mother used to say in my presence, 'I would be happy if you make it to twenty.'

But I fought the illnesses and won. From the age of fourteen, I began to hope I might not die young after all. By the time I finished middle and high school, I was confident that with effort, I could live and work in good health. Compared to others my age now, I'm arguably doing better than most.

I'm deeply grateful that I've never been hospitalised, nor have I ever undergone surgery. I've rarely had to put my work on hold due to illness. For this, I'm beyond grateful.

At thirty, I grew confident in my ability to work in good hea...