22 October,2021 08:20 AM IST | Mumbai | A Correspondent
Disha Suryawanshi (second from right) with spine surgeon Dr Niraj Kasat (left), and her family members
Two months after meeting with a car accident that injured her spinal cord, 16-year-old Disha Suryawanshi is finally able to walk on her feet again. The accident took place on August 10 when Disha was travelling with her family; their car lost control and overturned on Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway. While all her family members survived the crash, Disha was referred to Wockhardt Hospital in Mira Road for treatment as her spinal cord suffered the hit.
Dr Sharad Yadav, emergency care consultant, who was the first doctor to check Disha, said, "Her X-ray, CT scan, and MRI of the spine revealed that she had spine and hand fractures. Her lower body was paralysed with no movement below the waist, no sensation of urination, or passing motion. She had a D12 vertebral body fracture which was compressing the spinal cord." The family was counselled for emergency surgery for spinal decompression. "We fixed her fractures too. She was in the ICU for three days," said Dr Yadav.
After the surgery, Disha had to undergo aggressive physiotherapy. Dr Niraj Kasat, her spine surgeon, said, "She was completely bed-ridden. She underwent aggressive physiotherapy and was discharged after two weeks when she could at least get up. Her physiotherapy continued at home. During follow-up after six weeks, Disha came walking independently on her feet without any support."
"We were in a happy mood, enjoying and singing songs when we met with an accident. Thankfully, all my family members sustained only minor injuries. Unfortunately, my condition was serious; I couldn't even move or understand what was going on. I couldn't move, sit, stand, bath, or do anything else. I was determined not to give up and do whatever it takes to get back on my feet. I followed the doctor's instructions. Life has given me a second chance, so I want to make the most out of it. I am happy that I will be able to fulfil my dream of becoming a YouTuber and will strive to reach my goal," said Disha.
