Breaking Barriers: Two Months Anxiety, One Marathon, Infinite Strength at 3rd Federal Bank Kochi Marathon

Kochi: A mother participated in the Federal Bank Kochi Marathon with her two and a half month old baby, seeking a way to overcome anxiety and emotional struggles. Dr. Sreelakshmi Prashanth, an ophthalmologist at Mar Sleeva Medicity in Palai, took part in the 3 km category, hoping the marathon would help her regain mental strength.

“I gave birth to my baby two and a half months ago, and I started feeling like I was slipping into depression. During my pregnancy, I found joy through yoga. My mother-in-law, Shiji Unnikrishnan, is a breast cancer survivor. She and my husband were my biggest inspirations to participate in this marathon,” Dr. Sreelakshmi shared.

“I longed for relief from the emotional struggles I faced after childbirth. I don’t see this as a personal achievement, but rather as a message of confidence for other women who face similar challenges postpartum and wish to return to work.”

“I was anxious about being away from my baby, but during the marathon, my child was safe with my mother. This experience reassured me that my family is fully capable of taking care of my baby. My baby was absolutely fine, and I felt a significant reduction in my anxiety. Now, I have the confidence to return to work,” she added.

Dr. Sreelakshmi participated in the marathon alongside her husband, Harikrishnan, an assistant professor at MG University, their children four year old Viyan Krishna and newborn Sanvi Bhadra and her mother, Sreeja Prashanth, making it a truly family-supported endeavor.