Physician to Patient: Dr. Viraj’s Stroke and Aphasia Journey

Genevieve Richardson Author

Life can change in an instant. For Dr. Viraj Sudhalkar, an accomplished ophthalmologist and researcher, that moment came after the birth of her twins.

Physician to Patient: Dr. Viraj’s Stroke and Aphasia Journey

Life can change in an instant. For Dr. Viraj Sudhalkar, an accomplished ophthalmologist and researcher, that moment came after the birth of her twins. A stroke left her grappling with aphasia, a condition affecting her ability to speak and write. In this blog, we explore Dr. Viraj’s inspiring journey from the operating room to the rehabilitation room – and how she found a new purpose along the way.

A Passionate Career in Ophthalmology

Dr. Viraj Sudhalkar’s career as an ophthalmologist was marked by passion and dedication. After completing her MBBS and ophthalmology specialization in India, she pursued further training with a fellowship at the University of Utah. Her focus on cataract surgery led her to operate, teach, and present at international conferences. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Viraj published research manuscripts and became a well-respected figure in her field.

Her days were filled with long hours in surgery, counseling patients, and mentoring students. She balanced a thriving practice with an ever-growing curiosity to expand her skills. But life had other plans.

The Stroke That Changed Everything

At the age of 36, shortly after delivering healthy twins via cesarean section, Dr. Viraj experienced what seemed like an ordinary day. However, just days later, she felt something wasn’t right. A sudden medical emergency revealed a clot in her brain, resulting in a stroke. The aftermath was severe – parts of her skull had to be removed, and she faced extensive physical and neurological challenges.

Perhaps the most daunting hurdle was aphasia. Speech, a skill she had mastered in multiple languages, was now challenging. Words escaped her, and simple expressions became frustrating puzzles. As an ophthalmologist accustomed to diagnosing and treating patients, she now had to navigate life from the other side of the stethoscope.

A Long Road to Recovery

Dr. Viraj’s rehabilitation journey was not linear. Initially confined to a wheelchair, she spent months regaining her strength through physical therapy. Her speech, however, returned more gradually. “At first, I didn’t realize I was struggling,” she recalls. “But slowly, I understood the limitations.”

Therapists, family, and her own relentless determination became her guiding forces. She committed to speech therapy multiple days a week, practiced walking daily, and embraced positivity as a conscious choice. "There are two paths – to stay depressed or to choose positivity. I had no choice but to choose the positive path,” she says.

Her mindset became an anchor. Even during moments of frustration, she leaned on gratitude and focused on small victories, like walking in her garden or enjoying a cup of chai.

A New Purpose in Counseling Patients

While Dr. Viraj could no longer perform surgeries, her passion for patient care did not waver. Drawing from her personal experiences, she began counseling patients, particularly those dealing with chronic illnesses and vision loss.

“My perspective shifted completely,” she reflects. “As a patient, I saw the fear, frustration, and hope that others feel. It made me a better counselor.” Her dual role as doctor and patient allowed her to empathize more deeply. Patients found solace not only in her medical advice but also in her lived experience.

One of her greatest joys became sitting with patients, sharing stories over coffee, and offering encouragement. Her humility and genuine compassion became the cornerstones of her new professional identity.

Lessons for Patients and Caregivers

Dr. Viraj’s journey holds powerful lessons for anyone facing health challenges or caring for loved ones.

• Mindset matters. "Positivity is a choice, and it makes all the difference." Dr. Viraj emphasizes focusing on what’s possible rather than dwelling on limitations.

• Support systems are vital. She credits her recovery to the collective effort of those who stood by her, from therapists to family members.

• Embrace the small joys. Simple moments, like a walk or a shared laugh, carry profound healing power.

• Patience is key. Progress can be slow, but every step forward counts.

Take the Next Step

If you are caring for someone recovering from aphasia or a stroke, know that you are not alone. Studies show that stroke survivors experience better recovery outcomes when their caregivers feel supported, in control, and equipped to cope with the changes. Your role as a care partner plays a crucial part in their healing journey.

Join our free 5-day caregiver course, “From Chaos to Clarity.” This course offers simple, practical tips to help you feel empowered and more in control.

Spend just 15 minutes daily for five days – because small steps lead to significant changes. Start transforming your caregiving journey today.

[Sign up here] and take the first step towards confidence and clarity.

Warmly, Genevieve Richardson.

And as Dr. Viraj says, “A simple smile can change everything.”

You can catch her full story on Episode #126 of the Listen for LIFE Podcast

Categories: : SURVIVOR STORY