Disability is never an obstacle to success and this Indian woman has proved it literally by reaching the top of the world. Even though her legs used to start bleeding every time she went climbing- her determination of doing the impossible helped her to move forward.
Arunima Sinha became the world’s first female amputee to climb Mount Everest, the 8848-meter peak on May 21, 2013. This was just the start of her incredible journey. She has now gone on to be the first woman amputee to climb the tallest mountains in Africa, Europe, Australia, and South America. In 2015, she was presented with the Padma Shri, which is India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
On Tuesday, 6th November’18, for her inspirational achievements, the 30-year-old woman has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Strathclyde at a graduation ceremony in Glasgow.
For her extraordinary courage and inspiring journey in mountaineering, she was honored in the Barony Hall.
“I’m very happy and grateful to receive this honorary degree from the University of Strathclyde. This award delivers a good message to the youth of India and the world over that if you strive to reach your goals in life your achievements will be recognized,” Arunima said in an interview.
Professor Jim McDonald, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde said, “Arunima is an inspiration to amputees around the world. Not only has she shown real spirit, courage, and determination in overcoming adversity, she is using her compassion and positivity to help other people.”
He continues, “Arunima embodies the values of Strathclyde and we are delighted to recognise her achievements by making her an Honorary Doctor of the University.”
The award also recognises Sinha’s effort to empower women, disabled people through the Arunima Foundation. The idea of this initiative is to improve the health and social and economic situation for poorer communities.
Not many are aware that she is also a former Indian national Volleyball player and once while resisting a robbery, she was thrown from a running train and had to amputate her left leg below the knee.
While coping with her physical deformity, she made up her mind to climb Mount Everest and later trained with the first Indian women to climb the world’s highest peak- Bachendri Pal.