The Sounds of Healing
A timeline of songs, love, and healing through music
👁️ Bubbly Vision
Right around Diwali, my mother starts seeing bubbles in her left eye, which interfered with her vision. Upon examination, a sub-total retinal detachment was confirmed. Surgery is urgently needed to prevent total detachment.
♥️ My Mother in Law
My mother-in-law Manisha Khetan was a great support during her entire journey. From recommending their family eye doctor, to accompanying my parents to each and every checkup, lab visit, and doctor appointment, and helping with daily chores, her presence was a true blessing.
🏥 Before Surgery
Getting ready for the procedure — "Scleral Buckling". This photo was taken by my mother-in-law
👨⚕️ Our Doctor - Dr. Bhushan Khare
A big thank you to Dr. Bhushan Khare for performing the surgery with such expertise and care. His humor kept my mother's spirits high during a difficult time. He patiently explained every aspect of the procedure and recovery, helping us stay positive and calm throughout. His reassuring presence made all the difference.
💪 After Surgery
The surgery went well. The first couple of days after surgery were rough, but by day 3, things looked much better (no pun intended). Now begins the journey of healing and patience.
🛏️ Not Over Yet
Her condition was improving, but the retinal break is still open. Gas injection and laser procedure performed. She has to stay in this position for 18 hours a day for about2 weeks to aid healing. This pillow setup made by my father demonstrates his jugaad skills that kept her as comfortable as possible! Her neck and back were sore from maintaining this position. Checkups continued regularly and the hard work of being in this position was gradually paying off. Small victories felt very significant.
🧡 My Father
He was a constant support and a witness to this journey. Besides being with her every step of the way, my father gave her daily massages to help with the soreness from maintaining that position.
1 song, 1 day at a time
Each day, as her vision and confidence improved, she recorded a new song — all while maintaining the recovery position.
Chhota Sa Balma
The first song after surgery. A playful, light-hearted tune. You could hear the smile in her voice—the spark returning.
🍲 Jayu Maushi's Daily Care
Jayu Maushi has been a pillar of strength throughout my mother's recovery. She sent home-cooked meals every day when my mother was unable to cook for herself.
Tu Hai Toh
One of my recent favorites. Her voice carries hope, even through the fragility of recovery. The strength in her singing grows with each passing day.
⚡ Another Session of Laser
Her progress was steady, though she still wasn't fully healed. Another session of laser procedure performed to repair the retinal micro tears.
Meri Jaan Mujhe Jaan Na Kaho
Growing stronger with each note. This classic tune reminded us all of her dedication and the joy she finds in every melody.
Yeh Raatein
Full of emotion and strength. Each note carries the weight of her journey and the hope of healing.
2 songs today!
Getting in the groove now—recorded 2 songs today as her confidence soars!
Betaab Dil Ki Tamanna
A beautiful melody that showcases her growing confidence. Each day brings more strength to her voice.
Kehna Hi Kya
A soulful rendition of this AR Rahman classic. Her voice carries the depth and emotion that only comes from truly feeling the music.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
One of her favorites. The passion in this classic shines through, reminding us why she fell in love with music.
Sapna Jahan
A dreamy, hopeful tune to complete the collection. This marks her full return to the joy of singing.
💝 Love from Her Music Family
Pradnya Mahajan, founder of The Rutu Vasant Music Club, shared one of my mother's voice notes during a club session to let her know she was missed and loved. Pradnya-Kaaki was a tremendous support throughout my mother's recovery. She also came up with the idea of documenting this journey of recovery through music. This post wouldn't exist without her.
🎤 Back to Live Singing
She performed at The Orange - Art & Book Cafe in Pune. After her performance, an audience member requested her to sing something in Marathi. Check out her YouTube channel for more such performances!
🙏🏽 Thank You!
Thank you for being a part of Aai's recovery journey. Her vision continues to improve, and she continues to sing every chance she gets 😊.
