Sushma was a beautiful girl and unlike her mother was docile and sweet natured. She had survived the nightmare of a nomadic existence with her mentally unstable mother. On arrival at Udavum Karangal, she was placed in Shishu Bhavan, a home for children. Once a month she met her mother as Udavum Karangal believed in maintaining the mother- child bond. It looked as if once the child was safe , Janaki stopped being attached to her.

Sushma grew up as a shy introvert girl. She struggled with academics but managed to finish 10th standard and a course to be a nursing assistant. She joined a course to become a technician in ophthalmology. In between the courses she worked as a volunteer and care- giver. She was very kind to the children and the psychiatric patients.

Mr. Vidyaakar felt it would be good for Sushma to have a family of her own, to leave behind the past and to have a fresh start in life. When she was 21, she was married to Hemanth Kumar. The bridegroom was informed of Janaki’s condition.

How much have the first 3 years of her life affected Sushma? Udavum Karangal recognised its importance and made sure that Sushma’s husband and mother- in –law received counseling to help Sushma leave the past behind. With the support of Udavum Karangal and her new family there is every reason to believe that Sushma will triumph and move on.