It was a random conversation with family members after her SSC exams that led to the birth of this visually impaired doctor, probably the country’s first.

From performing anatomy practicals in an open courtroom to dictating her answers in the exams, the 24-year-old Nallasopara girl has come a long way to make her dream come true.

Dr Kritica Purohit, who lives at Lotus Apartments in Nallasopara West, was in class three when optical nerve damage caused her to lose vision. However, after completing SSC through National Association For Blind, Purohit didn’t have to think twice before opting for Science stream.

Her first hurdle came in the form of Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) in 2010 when she had to appear for Common Entrance Test (CET). She approached the Bombay High Court and the court order came in her favour.

Her second hurdle was getting a seat in a government college. The rules stipulated that none can be exempted from practical exams and since a visually challenged cannot perform the practicals, she was denied the seat.

“I again moved court, and on court orders performed anatomy in the courtroom on a specimen which was brought from London specially for the case. I had to perform a practical session to prove that I too can become a qualified doctor,” said Purohit.

“After securing admission, I worked hard and scored maximum marks in anatomy practicals, and brain was the most difficult part in it. But I was taught in such a manner that I could decipher it rightly,” said Purohit.

With the Maharashtra State Council for Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Mumbai issuing her the certificate on her clearing the exams, she has become the first government-certified visually challenged doctor in the country.

“I feel content that I have achieved what I aimed for. Now I will have to pass on this content feeling to those approaching me for treatment,” said Purohit.