In a world that often measures women by appearance, perfection, and conventional standards, Linges Warry Apparao, fondly known as Linda Rao is redefining what it truly means to be strong.

Diagnosed with Nemaline Rod Myopathy, a rare neuromuscular disorder classified as a rare disease in Malaysia, Linda has lived her life navigating physical limitations that most cannot imagine. The condition, which causes muscle weakness and reduced muscle tone, affected her from the age of two.

“Until I was six, I could walk with the help of a walker, but I couldn’t run,” she recalls.

But while her muscles may have weakened over time, her spirit only grew stronger.

From a young age, Linda knew she looked different. Society, she says, often built invisible walls around her shaped by rigid standards of what a “normal” body should look like.

“There were moments when it became serious and challenging to accept,” she admits. “Because society has its own standards.”

Yet education, along with the unwavering support of her family and close friends, became her anchor. Instead of allowing judgment to define her, she chose resilience.

“I keep my circle very small and positive,” she says. “Not everyone is meant to stay. Sometimes people choose to let go, and we must accept that too.”

That emotional maturity and the ability to protect her peace became one of her greatest strengths.

For years, Linda avoided showing the realities of her life: the wheelchair, the medical equipment, the physical struggles. But eventually, she decided to show up to the world exactly as she is.

“I just wanted to come out as who I am,” she shares.

That decision transformed not just her public image, but her own self-acceptance. By embracing visibility, she quietly challenged the discomfort society often has towards disability.

Today, her presence serves as representation for many who rarely see themselves reflected in mainstream narratives. In a culture where women are frequently judged by appearance, Linda’s definition of beauty is refreshingly powerful.

“Beauty is what’s inside your heart,” she says firmly. “If you don’t have good character, there is no point in being beautiful.”

She believes talent, integrity, and character matter far more than surface-level standards.

“You must showcase who you are. Just focusing on beauty alone won’t work.”

Her words resonate deeply especially on Women’s Day, as they challenge the narrow definitions often imposed on women, particularly women with disabilities.

Entering the workforce as a differently abled woman was not easy. Linda is candid about the discrimination she faced.

“It’s already difficult to find a job. As a differently abled woman, it’s even harder,” she explains. “Sometimes they don’t see what I can offer. They don’t see my knowledge or what I can bring to the table.”

Yet she refuses to see herself as limited.

Her message is clear: do not underestimate a woman’s capabilities based on physical appearance or health condition. Talent does not diminish because mobility does.

Speaking about the days that she wanted to give up..

Despite her strength, Linda is honest about her struggles.

“Oh, always,” she says when asked if she has ever felt like giving up. “Even one or two weeks ago.”

Her honesty dismantles the myth that strong women never break. They do. But what makes them powerful is that they rise again. The difference, she says, lies in support and self-awareness.

“The people who love you will always make you move forward.”

She credits her parents and close circle for grounding her, while also recognising that self-love is a daily practice.

This Women’s Day, Linda has a powerful message for women who feel limited by their appearance, circumstances, or health conditions:

“Do not depend too much on others : physically, emotionally, or financially. Learn to earn your own money. Love yourself. Spend time with yourself.”

She speaks frankly about independence, encouraging women to build their own stability and self-worth.

“If you are capable of taking care of yourself, you can also take care of your family,” she says.

Looking back at her younger self, the little girl who sometimes felt alone and afraid, Linda’s message is filled with compassion.

“I want people to see me as someone who is living, even with a lot of challenges in life.”

And that is exactly what she is doing.

Linda Rao is not just surviving with Nemaline Rod Myopathy, but she is thriving, speaking, working, inspiring, and rewriting the narrative around disability and womanhood.

This International Women’s Day, let’s honour the women who show us that strength is a mindset, beauty is about being real, and courage knows no bounds. Here’s to you, Linda Rao!

This is an exclusive story by Astro Ulagam. Any reproduction or adaptation requires prior consent from the interviewee to ensure accuracy. If referencing this article, please provide proper credit to Astro Ulagam along with a backlink in recognition of our editorial efforts.

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