Shakira Hussein’s relationship with music has transformed profoundly since she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that initially threatened her passion for the violin. Once a vibrant part of her life, her ability to play began to slip away, prompting her to explore new avenues of musical expression. Through her resilience, Shakira has not only adapted to her changing circumstances but has also embraced a new instrument that allows her to continue sharing her love of music with her daughter.
A Struggle Recognised Too Late
For Shakira, the onset of MS was insidious. The early warning signs—extreme fatigue, unexpected falls, and a gradual decline in her violin skills—were attributed to various other causes while she struggled to articulate the deeper issues at play. It wasn’t until her physical capabilities deteriorated significantly that she began to connect the dots. “This feels neurological” became a stark, haunting realisation as she faced the daunting prospect of a life altered by a chronic illness.
When the neurologist delivered the diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, it felt simultaneously terrifying and oddly reassuring. The fear of losing her life wholly as a mother to her then eight-year-old daughter, Adalya, was alleviated somewhat by the knowledge that there were treatments available. Amidst the uncertainty, Shakira found a glimmer of hope in the possibility of managing her condition.
The Pain of Loss and the Fight for Adaptation
After a period of remission, Shakira’s body regained some functionality, allowing her to step away from her walking stick and return to writing her PhD thesis. Yet, the bittersweet reality remained: her once-competent violin skills were now a distant memory. The instrument she had cherished since childhood became a painful reminder of what she had lost.
“I had only ever been a very ordinary violinist,” she reflected, yet the impact of her diminished abilities was profound. The simple joys of spontaneous jam sessions with friends and family, and the delight in creating music for children, had faded.
As a single mother on a modest income, Shakira had previously busked outside local shops, where Adalya would dance to her tunes. The dreams of playing the Bach double violin concerto with her daughter felt increasingly out of reach, leaving Shakira to watch from the sidelines as Adalya pursued her own musical journey.
A New Path: Embracing the Tabla
While grappling with her new reality, Shakira eventually decided to pass her violin on to Adalya, purchasing a less expensive instrument for herself with the hope that her fine motor skills might improve. Yet, as she explored the guitar, it soon became clear that her frustrations outweighed the joy of playing.
In a serendipitous moment, Shakira recalled the tabla, a traditional hand-drum she had admired during childhood visits to India. The tabla presented a new challenge, but one that felt more achievable given her current limitations. Inspired by her memories of tabla performances, including those by renowned musician Ustad Zakir Hussein, she embarked on a new journey of musical exploration.
Over the past 18 months, Shakira has committed herself to learning the tabla. Each lesson has been a chance to rediscover the joy of making music, even when faced with obstacles. “Playing music—even on an unfamiliar instrument—feels like a homecoming,” she says. “I can take pleasure in my slow but steady improvement.”
Creating New Memories Together
While the dream of performing the Bach double with her daughter may never materialise, Shakira has found a way to create new musical memories. The combination of violin and tabla can lead to beautiful collaborations, allowing them to forge their own unique musical bond.
Shakira’s journey highlights the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. She may have faced the loss of her violin skills, but she has discovered new avenues for expression that resonate just as deeply.
Why it Matters
Shakira Hussein’s story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those living with chronic illnesses. It underscores the importance of finding new ways to pursue passions and connect with loved ones, even when faced with daunting challenges. Her journey not only inspires others grappling with similar circumstances but also reminds us that music, in its many forms, can be a source of healing and connection, transcending the barriers imposed by our physical limitations.
