"We seek your empathy not sympathy", said Swarnalatha Founder of Swarga Foundation at the launch of "I am Special" calendar for 2017-18. Despite being a victim of Multiple-Sclerosis, a neurological disorder, Swarna never surrendered herself to the disease, but she made the disease surrender to her.
Amidst her struggle, Swarna's thought went out for several others who were suffering from such neurological disorders. She decided to identify many such victims and contribute meaningfully to their lives while educating the society that their disability doesn't curtail their talents, and that's how her 'Swarga Foundation' was born.
Every year the foundation launches a special calendar featuring 12 specially-abled people who suffer from such neurological disorders yet shine as stars in the field of sports. As a part of their 3rd year anniversary, the "I am Special" calendar was launched yesterday in a private hotel in Avinashi Road which was attended by several people including social activists and differently-abled people.
Speaking on the occasion, Swarnalatha said " As special people we seek empathy, opportunity, inclusiveness from the society, rather than sympathy. Sympathy does not no good to us it only reminds us of our disability. This calendar "I am Special" initiative was started to highlight the performers in sports who stand tall despite their disability which is a valid proof that if opportunities are given, we are no lesser. People often misjudge our talents looking at our disability, it's unfortunate that they forget to judge our talents".
"Our mission is to bridge the gap between the specially-abled and the society and contribute in uplifting their lives. Inclusiveness can create a great impact in the lives of such people and through our Foundation we have been emphasizing this strongly to the society and the government", Swarnalatha said.
Following her moving speech, the calendar "I am Special" for the upcoming year 2018 was launched amidst the special stars who have been featured in the calendar. The table top calendar will feature one such star for every month and hence 12 such stars for 12 months.
All those who were featured in the calendar shared their journey and how much they value this recognition by Swarga Foundation.
A member from the Swarga Foundation also briefed the audience on the future plans and initiatives. And, how they plan to reach more people. The proceeds from the calendar will be used for the initiatives of the Foundation.
Dr. Balaji, Director of Coimbatore Cancer Foundation among other eminent people were present during the launch event.