Shakira Hussein, a passionate violinist and dedicated mother, faced the daunting challenge of multiple sclerosis (MS) as it began to erode her ability to play the instrument she loved. Rather than surrender to despair, Hussein embarked on a transformative journey, exploring new musical horizons while redefining her dreams.
The Initial Struggles
For Hussein, the early signs of multiple sclerosis were subtle. Initially preoccupied with other health issues—extreme fatigue, unexplained falls—she failed to connect these symptoms to her declining violin skills. It wasn’t until her condition reached a critical point that she suspected something was profoundly wrong. The diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis came as both a shock and a relief, offering clarity amidst her fears for her future and that of her young daughter, Adalya.
After her diagnosis, Hussein experienced a glimmer of hope as her condition went into remission. She was able to resume her PhD thesis and momentarily set aside her walking stick. However, the disease had inflicted lasting damage; her fine motor skills and balance were compromised, making it impossible to ride her bike or enjoy her beloved violin in the same way.
The Pain of Loss
Despite having played the violin since childhood, Hussein considered herself an ordinary player. Yet, the loss of her ability to engage with music was deeply painful. She reminisced about the joy of busking with her daughter, who had eagerly awaited the day they could play the Bach double concerto together. As her physical capabilities waned, she found herself watching from the sidelines, grappling with the reality of her new limitations.
Acceptance took time. When Hussein finally passed her violin on to Adalya, she clung to the hope of one day playing alongside her daughter again, even if that moment seemed increasingly elusive. This longing propelled her to explore alternatives in therapy, including the possibility of switching to a guitar or a tricycle, but both endeavours fell short of rekindling her passion for music.
A New Path
In a surprising turn, Hussein’s journey led her to the tabla, a traditional pair of hand drums from South Asia. Inspired by childhood memories of tabla performances, she recognized the instrument as a more accessible avenue for her musical aspirations. Unlike the violin, the tabla could accommodate her reduced dexterity, allowing her to reclaim a sense of musical expression.
Over the past year and a half, Hussein has embraced lessons in tabla playing, learning the intricacies of finger positioning and rhythmic patterns. This new pursuit has brought her immense joy, offering a sense of homecoming in the world of music. The contrast between her experiences with the violin and the tabla is striking; while the former serves as a constant reminder of what she has lost, the latter presents an opportunity for growth and discovery.
A Future in Music
Although Hussein acknowledges that she may never perform the Bach double concerto with her daughter, she refuses to let that diminish her enthusiasm for making music together. The harmonious blend of violin and tabla opens new possibilities for their musical journey, fostering a connection that transcends the barriers imposed by illness.
Hussein’s story serves as a testament to resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. It underscores the power of music as a healing force, capable of bridging gaps and forging new paths, even when life takes unexpected turns.
Why it Matters
Shakira Hussein’s experience with multiple sclerosis and her subsequent exploration of the tabla highlight a broader narrative about the impact of chronic illness on personal identity and passion. It reminds us that while challenges may alter our paths, they can also lead to unexpected discoveries and new forms of expression. In a world where many face similar obstacles, Hussein’s journey encourages us to seek alternative avenues for joy and connection, demonstrating that passion for art and music can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances.
