Chennai: Veeralakshmi from Theni, the first woman ambulance driver of Tamil Nadu, says that women can achieve in any profession if they come forward without fear.
Veeralakshmi, a mother of two, joined the Government Hospital at Avadi in Chennai, as the first woman 108 ambulance driver in Tamil Nadu. She had migrated to Chennai from Theni with her husband, a taxi driver, in search of a better life but the income was still inadequate.
Enrolling her children in a government school, Veeralakshmi began working as a taxi driver along with her husband to make ends meet. The pandemic circumstance and need for sustenance drew Veeralakshmi's attention to an application form for ambulance driver in Chennai.
Veeralakshmi, who wanted to try her luck at the job. But to her surprise, she succeeded in getting it. With a lot of expectations and dreams, she has set out to start her new job.
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Job as an ambulance driver
Driving an ambulance is not an easy task. In fact, it is dangerous and requires a great presence of mind. An ambulance driver is expected to drive the vehicle fast, negotiating difficult road traffic condition as the condition of the patient would not unknown. Similarly, an ambulance driver should also be ready to assist the patient without any hesitation. While many drivers avoid volunteering for the service in the backdrop of the pandemic, Veeralakshmi came forward to take up the job that was offered to her. She says that all information related to the service was explained to her during the interview.
Family and neighbour’s reproval
Society often fails to recognise the skills of female drivers. Veeralakshmi was no exception and she too had to overcome several barriers. Veeralakshmi was subjected to criticism by family members and neighbours when she took up a job as a taxi driver. Regardless of that, she is now happy that she gets all the support from her husband.
Anything is possible...
Women have made a mark in almost every profession. Women have grown past self-doubt and proved over the years that they can do anything under the sky. Veeralakshmi is one such example and wishes other women could join her in the service. She says any dream could be achieved if there are hard work and tolerance.
