Love Beyond Loss: Chennai Couple Brings the Wild to Life for the Differently-Abled

Tell My Story

For 29-year-old Dhanalakshmi, who lives with dwarfism, it was a dream come true. Seeing her favourite animal — the majestic tiger — up close at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur, Chennai, brought tears of joy to her eyes. “I am so happy visiting the zoo. We can’t do this on our own. I am so happy to see the differences in birds and animals, compared to how they look on television,” she told TellMyStory.in.

She wasn’t alone. Nine others, including senior citizens and differently-abled like Mariammal, spent a day filled with smiles, laughter and wonder — travelling from Ennore to the zoo to meet lions, elephants and exotic birds. “I saw lions, elephants and many birds. I am so happy,” said an elated Mariammal.

The outing, called “Vandalur Wonder Outing”, was more than just a picnic — it was an escape from isolation and depression for individuals largely confined to their homes. The initiative was organised by a couple, S. J. S. Selvinson and his wife Graciana, who turned their personal tragedy into a mission of hope through their Catherine Hope Foundation. The couple lost their elder daughter, Catherine, to cancer five years ago. Though one of her legs had been amputated, they recall that she never once gave in to despair.

“Never was Catherine depressed though one leg was amputated. She fought cancer bravely. Our heart is to fight against depression,” Selvinson said. Graciana added, “Our daughter Catherine isn’t with us now, but the joy this programme has brought them is a source of comfort for us.”

The community also held placards that said “Say no to depression” and “Live every moment”.

Nearly 30 volunteers joined hands to make the event special — from arranging meals and transport to individually assisting each participant throughout the day. Volunteer Divya David shared, “They have come out of their surroundings and are seeing the beautiful things in the world. We can see the real joy in their faces, and that joy spreads to us.”

In a city bustling with everyday struggles, this quiet act of kindness made a profound difference — offering joy, dignity and hope to those often forgotten.