Writer who defied doctors’ prediction shares inspiring journey of survival

When doctors predicted that she would not live beyond 18, few could have imagined that Fikayomi Aaron would defy the odds and become a voice of resilience and hope for people living with disabilities.

Now 32, the Kogi State-born writer and publishing coach is sharing her powerful story of survival after years of battling a rare and painful condition known as heterotopic ossification — a disorder that causes bones to grow abnormally in soft tissues.

Aaron’s ordeal began at the age of 10 when she started experiencing unexplained pain and difficulty walking.

What initially appeared to be a minor ailment soon escalated into a lifelong struggle as her joints stiffened and her hands became locked in place. For years, doctors could not identify the cause of her condition, misdiagnosing it as osteomyelitis and later as a bone tumour.

It was not until 2021, after undergoing corrective surgery on one of her hands, that she finally received an accurate diagnosis.

The writer described her childhood as a period filled with confusion, pain, and uncertainty. Her deteriorating condition forced her to drop out of school after Junior Secondary School 3 in 2006 due to mobility challenges. Despite the setbacks, she turned to writing as a means of expression and empowerment.

Aaron, who lost her father at the age of two, credits her mother and siblings for their unwavering love and support throughout her journey.

“My mother is my greatest inspiration,” she said, recounting how her family’s sacrifices kept her going even during her darkest moments.

Her condition, which worsens with physical trauma, has led to multiple surgeries and health complications, including calcification of internal organs. Yet, through it all, she has remained determined to live with purpose.

Beyond her health struggles, Aaron has also had to contend with societal stigma and misconceptions.

She recalled being labelled as “possessed” by some individuals who attributed her illness to spiritual causes.

“At 13, a family friend accused me of being a witch,” she recounted, describing the emotional pain of being misunderstood.

Despite facing ridicule and rejection, she found strength in her faith and passion for writing.

Over the years, she has become a mentor and advocate for people living with disabilities, urging society to view them beyond their physical limitations.

Aaron is set to launch her debut book titled Is Disability a Burden? on November 29. The book, which is the first in a planned eight-part series, explores disability, resilience, and the power of self-acceptance.

According to her, the project aims to “educate society and inspire people with disabilities to find their voice and define their own paths.”

She emphasised the need for greater inclusion and accessibility in Nigeria, calling on policymakers and architects to incorporate disability-friendly designs in public spaces.

“Accessibility should be part of every plan — ramps, features, and opportunities,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey, Aaron said she has attempted suicide multiple times in the past but now sees her survival as a divine calling.

“I believe I’m still here because someone needs to hear my story. Even in brokenness, there is beauty,” she said.

Her message to others living with disabilities is one of hope and self-belief: “You are not defined by your condition. You are human first — full of dreams, purpose, and potential. You may be limited in body, but never in spirit.”

Through her words and work, Fikayomi Aaron continues to prove that even in the face of pain and impossibility, the human spirit can still triumph and shine.