Born with hydrocephalus, Vignesswaran s/o Anbalagan, or Vicky, is a sprightly 43-year-old whose life journey speaks to his resilience and a mother’s love. Contrary to the doctor's bleak prognosis that he would lead a life filled with limitations, Vicky has defied the odds. His mother, Mdm Punitha, 74, refused to let those limitations define him. She dedicated herself to his care, believing in his potential, and nurturing his spirit. Today, Vicky thrives at the Red Cross Day Activity Centre for the Disabled, where he has forged friendships with employees, volunteers and fellow clients alike.

Born with Hydrocephalus, a condition where excess fluid builds up in the brain, Vignesswaran s/o Anbalagan (Vicky) had to undergo an operation when he was only 17 days old. 

"The doctors said he would be a ‘vegetable’ for life, and he would not live very long," said Vicky’s mother, Mdm Seetharam Punithavathi (Mdm Punitha).

A Mother's Devotion and Overcoming the Odds

Still, Mdm Punitha remained undaunted. She refused to let the doctor's prognosis define her son. Her persistence has paid off — though Vicky lives with speech and mobility limitations, he continues to thrive as an adult, much to his mother’s delight.

Vicky was enrolled in special schools from the ages of nine to 18, but did not continue under professional care following that period. Yet, his mother never gave up her search for a suitable facility. Against all odds, Mdm Punitha's unwavering belief in Vicky's potential gave him a fighting chance at life. Her persistence paid off when she eventually discovered the Singapore Red Cross’ Day Activity Centre for the Disabled (DAC), which officially opened in April 2019. Vicky was enrolled in the DAC that year when he was 38.

“After 20 years of not finding a place which could care for Vicky professionally, finding the DAC was a blessing,” said Mdm Punitha. 

Thriving at the Day Activity Centre for the Disabled

Since enrolling in the DAC, Vicky has blossomed as the Centre opened avenues for him to grow independently and confidently. His daily activities include gardening, arts and crafts, meal preparation, group therapy games such as basketball, and gait training.

"He enjoys playing games such as ball games and interaction games," shared Azmi Bin Abd Karim, a Therapy Aide at DAC who helps to provide Vicky with appropriate care.

These activities and social interactions have bolstered Vicky's confidence and sharpened his language skills. The environment at the Centre has empowered him to explore his strengths, feel a sense of inclusion, and forge fulfilling friendships. Occasionally, the care team would bring Vicky and other DAC clients outdoors to the hawker centre, basketball court, or playground, and for special outings to attractions like the Singapore Flyer.

Contrary to the doctors’ initial prognosis, Vicky is far from being passive. He continues to fill his days with his passion for learning and a zest for life. 

"He watches Mandarin serials and understands basic Mandarin. Apart from that, Vicky enjoys doing word searches on the computer, and searches for things online," said Mdm Punitha with pride. 

Besides these, "Vicky loves interacting with us and sharing some lighthearted jokes. We also watched Shah Rukh Khan video clips on YouTube," Azmi said. 

Vicky’s charm lies in his love for simple pleasures and his passions. His favourite pastime is collecting watches, particularly his favourite brand and line, the Casio G Shock. His eyes would glimmer with excitement whenever the conversation turned to watches. His two sisters have also played instrumental roles in adding to his watch collection. Having been supportive of Vicky throughout his life, they now continue their support from abroad.

An Endearing Personality That Brings Joy to Others

Vicky's amiable and cheerful disposition radiates warmth to everyone he meets. The DAC has become his home away from home — Vicky has been thriving, surrounded by employees and volunteers caring for him, and peers enjoying his company.

"He is such a cheerful person despite his disabilities. He tries his best to be as independent as he can," said Azmi. 

Echoing his sentiment, Mdm Punitha said, "He gets bored if he stays home. Vicky enjoys his time at the DAC as he enjoys meeting people. Besides comprehending people's conversations, he engages in lively and witty exchanges with other DAC clients, employees, and volunteers, who have become his friends."

Just as others have uplifted his life with love and care, Vicky uplifts the spirits of those whom he interacts with.  

His radiant smiles light up the room, spreading joy to everyone around him. As Azmi shares, "He never fails to smile. He always smiles gleefully at me and the other employees at the DAC. As he is so polite and fun to talk to, chatting with him brings me much joy.”

Mdm Punitha is deeply grateful for the DAC’s positive impact on her son’s life. This compassionate environment has given her peace of mind, knowing Vicky is well-cared for by people who respect and value him.

When he returns home after his DAC sessions, Mdm Punitha remains Vicky's pillar of strength. Despite grappling with diabetes, thyroid and mobility issues, Mdm Punitha shows her care by going to great lengths to shower, wash his hair, shave him, and brush his teeth. Though the question remains in her mind of who might continue caring for Vicky with the same dedication when she can no longer do so, she finds comfort in knowing that, for now, he is in good hands at the DAC.

A Message of Hope for Other Families

Mdm Punitha has a message for parents of children with disabilities. 

“I would encourage parents of children with disabilities to find a place like the DAC where they can thrive. Like all of us, persons with disabilities need motivation, and they need to feel appreciated."

Mdm Punitha believes that a supportive environment like that of the DAC can bring persons with disabilities much joy as they engage in activities that ensure their physical, emotional and social well-being, enabling them to lead a life of dignity and happiness.

Finding a Place Where He Belongs

Vicky's story reminds us that with love, belief and the right support, every individual can rise beyond their limitations and shine. Through the DAC, Vicky has found a community that celebrates him for who he is — a warm, cheerful person with a heart full of kindness and love for life. He continues to thrive and bring happiness to everyone around him, and is living proof that love, support and a sense of belonging can unleash the best in every person. As his mother wisely says, "Disability does not define him — his kindness, joy and love for life do." 

By Aparna Johri, Volunteer

Copyedited by Michael Gutierrez, Volunteer, and Sondra Foo, Marketing and Communications