Quadriplegic writer teaches life lessons in new release

An adventurous and charismatic Havenside native recently released a novel, which delves deep into her struggles, motivations, and accomplishments following the effects of a rare genetic disorder, which left her to be a quadriplegic.

The book entitled, ‘My Life, My Rules- My Style, My Attitude’, is 32-year-old Nevonia Moodley’s first crack at writing a novel, as she seeks to spread her story to the masses.

At the age of 12, Moodley fell ill with the common flu. She spent a year being in and out of hospitals, with doctors taking blood samples, sending her for numerous scans and tests, only to find out that she has a rare genetic disorder known as Fredrich’s Ataxia.

This disorder affects her central nervous system, muscles, bones, and joints. Since her diagnosis, Moodley’s life has been heavily impacted.

She explained, “It is comparable to when you have a baby, you have to teach the child how to do everything, from bathing to eating by themselves. It felt like that for me, I had to learn to do the small things by myself, including using a restroom. The anger and frustration I had towards myself was overwhelming. But I learnt to accept it, which at first was the most difficult part.”

Apart from providing a unique perspective on the trial and tribulations, which an able-bodied person faces following such a daunting diagnosis, the inspiring story also shows a woman, who, is made to accept a startling change in the midst of her disorder.

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This turned Moodley into the strong, smart, and brave woman, who lives her life the way she deems it fit.

“I focused mainly on my five years at high school, growing up. I experienced a lot more than most of the children my age as I had more challenges and obstacles along the way. I take the reader on a journey through my life and hopefully, you will understand my feelings and me better. I survived losing myself on so many levels, but I came back stronger mentally. It built my character and taught me life lessons and skills,” Moodley continued.

After completing matric, Moodley went on to obtain her national higher certificate in accountancy, as well as her national diploma for internal auditing, and a course in counselling.

She studied through UNISA and the Tax Faculty. When asked what inspired her to write the novel, Moodley stated, “After high school, I wanted to become a motivational speaker, and people I had met and knew encouraged me to do just that, as they believed that my story and passion for life could inspire and uplift others. But I prefer to write so I decided to give this a try. It’s the first time I’m speaking up about my life experiences. Putting pen to paper felt like therapy. I want to show people that your life is a journey filled with many challenges, obstacles and opportunities, and I’ve been given my fair share. However, you are also offered choices and that depends solely on your thoughts and perception. Never place judgment on someone else without fully understanding the circumstances they are facing and remember that could be you tomorrow.” Moodley is an adventurous soul, who loves to try out activities, which give her an adrenalin rush.

Activities to which she would love to try are horse riding, paragliding, rock climbing, and bungee jumping.

“My dream is to someday build a centre that accommodates quadriplegics and paraplegics on a permanent basis, while providing a safe and care-free environment where they can develop themselves to be the best that they can be without judgement and prejudice from society,” she concluded. Her book will be available online at Amazon Kindle stores and other eBook retailers. It will be printed once the spread of COVID-19 eases.