Cerebellar ataxia awareness talk

On 13th November 2025, the Neuro Physiotherapy Department of St. Andrews College of Physiotherapy organized an awareness talk on cerebellar ataxia, delivered by Mr. Vilas Shinde, a patient living with the condition. Dr. Venkatesan Ramakrishnan felicitated him with a shawl and bouquet. Mr. Shinde shared his personal journey, describing the challenges he faced from age 15, including difficulties in schooling, employment, and mental health struggles. He highlighted how support from NGOs and adaptive strategies, such as customized tricycles and vocational activities like paper bag making, helped him regain independence and confidence. He also discussed the role of regular exercises, pranayama, and yogasanas in managing his condition, and his ongoing work in awareness programs with the Cerebellar Ataxia Association. The session included active participation from 3rd- and 4th-year BPTh students, followed by a question-and-answer segment where Mr. Shinde addressed students’ queries. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Jayden Francis and was noted as highly informative and inspiring for the students.