Radha Narayanan

Family, friends, and supporters of Radha Narayanan are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with a catastrophic illness. Radha has chosen to fundraise with Help Hope Live in part because donations are tax deductible for contributors and will only be used to cover medical and related expenses.

My name is Radha, and I am reaching out for help during one of the most challenging periods of my life.

For many years, I built a career in science, education, innovation, and professional development. I worked hard, pursued advanced education, and dedicated my life to helping others solve complex problems. I believed that determination and perseverance could overcome almost any obstacle.

Then my health began to change.

Today, I live with multiple disabling conditions that affect nearly every aspect of my daily life.

I am legally blind due to a progressive vision disorder. Tasks that many people take for granted—reading mail, navigating unfamiliar environments, driving, recognizing faces from a distance, and managing paperwork—have become increasingly difficult or impossible without assistance and adaptive technology.

I also experience moderate to severe hearing loss, which creates additional barriers to communication, social interaction, and independence. Conversations can be exhausting, especially in crowded environments or when important information is being discussed. The combination of vision and hearing loss presents unique challenges that many people never have to consider.

In addition, I live with schizoaffective disorder, a serious mental health condition that requires ongoing treatment, support, and careful management. Despite my best efforts, the condition can affect concentration, emotional well-being, and daily functioning. Maintaining stability requires continuous medical care and access to resources.

As if these challenges were not enough, I also suffer from severe pain in my sacroiliac (SI) joints and lower back. Chronic pain affects my mobility, sleep, energy levels, and ability to perform everyday tasks. Simple activities such as standing, walking, sitting for extended periods, or traveling can become physically exhausting.

Each of these conditions alone would be difficult. Together, they create overwhelming obstacles to independence and financial security.

Despite these challenges, I continue to fight every day to maintain my dignity, independence, and quality of life. I remain committed to contributing to my community and helping others whenever possible. I refuse to let my disabilities define who I am.

Unfortunately, many disability-related expenses are not fully covered by insurance or assistance programs. Adaptive technology, accessibility tools, transportation, medical care, hearing-related devices, mobility support, and other essential services create ongoing financial burdens.

That is why I am partnering with Help Hope Live.

Funds raised through this campaign will help support disability-related expenses that allow me to remain as independent, safe, and engaged as possible. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps reduce barriers and provides access to resources that improve daily living.

If you are unable to donate, sharing my story with others can make an enormous difference.

Living with legal blindness, hearing loss, chronic pain, and mental health challenges has taught me that hope often comes through the kindness and compassion of others. Your support reminds me that I am not facing these challenges alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for your encouragement, and for any assistance you may be able to provide.

With gratitude,

Dr. Radha Narayanan