Women's Day Special: This woman is completely paralysed but it hasn't stopped her from running a school

Uma Sharma's story is an inspiration to all of us. Photo Courtesy: Twitter/ YourStory

Giving up is very easy. Fighting back can take a lot of courage but it is fulfilling. Yet, most of us look for a way out when things don't go our way. For instance, if your boss is an incarnation of Hitler, you quit your job because it is too hard for you to manage. Or if a there's a subject at school you find too complicated, you stop trying. These are a few trivial problems we all face in our lives. Then there are some bigger ones that leave you depressed and you lose your will to fight. But, what we are about to tell you might just inspire you to face your challenges. Meet 64-year-old Uma Sharma. She is the principal of National Public School, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. And her story will leave you speechless for a while.

What Makes Uma Sharma So Special

Sharma is completely paralyzed from neck down. Yet, this doesn't stop her from running an entire school. "Technology has helped me to perform my duties without any glitches. Surendra Chauhan, owner of the school, appointed me as the first principal on March 2, 1989. Earlier we had classes till standard V, but I expended it till standard VIII," she says in an exclusive interview to us.

"In 2007, I suffered from partial paralysis. Obviously things became a little difficult then. By 2010, I was completely paralysed. Only my head and hands could move. But, I decided not to let my condition defeat me. I fought back," she says.

How Technology Helps Uma Run the School

Thanks to digital innovations, Sharma found a way to run the school without any glitches. "Mr. Chauhan installed two antennas--one in the school and one at my house. The antenna was connected to my computer. This enabled me to transmit live audio and video feeds. In 2013, I got the same technology synchronized with my tablet. I could do live videos and direct my staff. Also, later CCTV cameras were installed in classrooms, staff room, and playground. I could access the live feed on my phone. It is how I conduct most of my meetings. Also, I keep monitoring the school. When I spot something, I immediately call them up," says Sharma.

Uma Sharma is the principal of National Public School, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Photo Courtesy: Twitter

But, It Was Not That Easy

Thanks to her courage, Sharma has managed to take her school to new heights. But, it was not that easy. When Sharma became bed ridden, she called a staff meeting at her house. 27 teachers flocked to her residence in Numaish Camp in Bhopal Nagar. This is the only joint staff meeting she has had so far.

During the meeting, she asked the teachers to continue showing their dedication towards the school and the students. "I told them this is how it is going to be. But, it shouldn't stop you from giving your best. I will continue taking care of the school and will keep monitoring everything. Moreover, I am there for you and the students all the time," continues Sharma.

And she sure did. Over the course of seven years, Sharma has pulled up mischievous students; lend them a supporting hand, and given hope to students who even the teachers found hopeless.

Thanks to her courage, Sharma has managed to take her school to new heights. Photo Courtesy: Twitter

All this she does while battling her own health conditions. "When I suffer from severe knee pain, I take a break of few hours. Or when I suffer from high blood pressure, I take my medicines and go on with my work," she reveals.

Uma Sharma's Personal Tragedies Did Not Break Her

If you are applauding Sharma for her immense strength and courage, then hold on--there's more. In 1984, Sharma opened her own institute. However, due to domestic reasons she had to close it down. Later, she got busy with her duties after being appointed as the principal of National Public School. But, tragedy struck in 1991 when her husband passed away. She had children to feed and duties to uphold.

All the schoolwork gave her little time to spend with her children. But, while she was battling the loss of her husband, her 21-year-old son passed away in 2001 due to kidney failure. Unfortunately in 2007, her youngest daughter passed away too. It was then Sharma's health took a toll and she became paralyzed. But, despite all the tragedies she did not give up fighting. If her story doesn't inspire you to face your fears, then God knows what will!

Giving up is very easy. Fighting back can take a lot of courage but it is fulfilling. Photo Courtesy: Twitter

And for all those who are struggling with their problems, Uma Sharma Has a Message

"I don't believe being handicap should stop you from living your life. Forget disability, even if you have any other challenges in your life that are weighing you down, don't run away. Face them. There is really no point in crying over things that are not in your control. I know that. Instead, gather whatever courage you are left with and fight the situation. I did not let my tragedies get better of me. If I can, so can you," she signs off.

Well, kudos to Sharma for her inspirational story and her will to overcome tragedies. We really need to learn a thing or two from her.