As Shakira Hussein navigates her life with multiple sclerosis, she reflects on the transformative journey from her beloved violin to the tabla, an unexpected yet fulfilling musical pivot. Once aspiring to perform the Bach double concerto with her daughter, Hussein’s story illuminates resilience in the face of adversity and the power of adaptation.
The Deterioration of a Dream
Initially, Shakira Hussein dismissed the gradual decline in her violin skills. Overwhelmed by fatigue and unexplained falls, she failed to connect these symptoms with her musical struggles. It was only when neurological impairment made even basic tasks like writing and walking a challenge that the possibility of a serious condition dawned on her.
The diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis felt like a double-edged sword—while it confirmed her fears, it also brought a sense of relief. The prospect of treatment offered hope, particularly for her young daughter, Adalya. With therapies at hand aiming to mitigate her symptoms, Hussein managed to reclaim some aspects of her life, including her long-overdue PhD thesis. Yet, the remnants of her condition left a lasting impact on her fine motor skills and balance.
The Loss of a Lifelong Passion
A once avid violinist since the age of seven, Hussein confronted the emotional weight of her inability to play. The thought of no longer sharing spontaneous jam sessions with friends or entertaining children through music was daunting. Despite never considering herself an extraordinary musician, the loss felt profound, stripping away a vital aspect of her identity.
As a low-income single mother, Hussein had busked outside local shops, with Adalya dancing to her tunes. The desire to perform the Bach double violin concerto together remained a cherished dream, but her condition rendered even simple melodies a struggle. Eventually, she passed her violin on to Adalya, holding onto the hope that her own skills would one day miraculously return.
Finding New Rhythm with the Tabla
During her rehabilitation, an occupational therapist urged Hussein to identify activities curtailed by her illness. While she initially listed ambitious goals, it was the desire to play music with her daughter that resonated most profoundly. The therapist suggested exploring alternatives like riding a tricycle or switching to guitar, leading Hussein to try her hand at a guitar salvaged from rubbish. Unfortunately, this attempt led to frustration rather than joy, prompting her to part with the instrument.
In a moment of inspiration, Hussein decided to embrace the tabla, a traditional South Asian drum. With memories of tabla players from her childhood and the recognition that the instrument might be more forgiving to her reduced dexterity, she committed to learning. For the past 18 months, she has taken lessons, slowly mastering finger techniques and compositions. The tabla has provided a sense of homecoming, allowing her to experience the joy of music once more.
A New Musical Future
Though Hussein acknowledges she may never perform the Bach double with her daughter, she remains optimistic about their potential to create music together. The combination of violin and tabla can yield beautiful harmonies, proving that even in the face of loss, new possibilities can arise.
Why it Matters
Hussein’s journey exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of music on personal identity. As she adapts to the challenges of multiple sclerosis, her story resonates with countless others facing similar struggles. It serves as a reminder that while we may not always follow the paths we initially envision, embracing change can lead to unexpected joy and connection.