From bedridden to bureaucrat: A story of grit and grace

February 3, 2026 Unknown Wizards Valli Sarvani

In a powerful testament to human resilience, a 36-year-old man has transformed years of physical suffering into an inspiring personal victory by securing a prestigious Group-2 government post.

Motukuri Suresh Babu’s journey stands as a reminder that determination can overcome even the harshest physical limitations.

Suresh’s life took a sudden turn in 2016 when he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune spinal cord disorder.

The condition, which affects roughly one in a lakh people, left him paralysed and confined to a wheelchair and bed.

Once an active accountant working in Tirupati, he became dependent on his ageing parents for even the most basic daily needs.

Multiple consultations with doctors in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Tirupati brought little hope, as there was no confirmed treatment beyond uncertain physiotherapy.

The emotional toll was immense. From being the family’s support system, Suresh felt he had become a burden.

However, this phase also became a turning point. Inspired by the achievements of people with disabilities, especially UPSC ranker Madhavilatha, he decided to rebuild his life through education and public service.

He believed that meaningful achievement could restore his dignity and allow him to contribute to society.

Prepared from his bed, Suresh began studying for competitive examinations. Sitting for long hours was painful, yet he trained his body gradually through discipline and persistence.

He relied on online classes and YouTube resources, focusing on the Andhra Pradesh Group-2 examinations.

His first major attempt in 2018 ended in disappointment when he missed selection by just two marks. Still, he refused to give up.

When a new Group-2 notification was issued in 2023, Suresh renewed his efforts. The long examination process, with prelims in 2024, mains in 2025, and results in 2026, tested his patience and resolve.

Finally, his perseverance paid off when he was selected as an Assistant Section Officer in the Andhra Pradesh Secretariat.

Born and raised in Proddutur, Suresh is the son of Subramanyam, a night watchman at the Chennakesava Swamy temple, and Anjanamma.

A B.Com graduate with an MBA, his career had once stalled due to illness. Today, he credits his parents and family for their unwavering support.

His message is clear and powerful: if determination is strong, limitations can be overcome, and life can regain purpose.

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on January 20, 2019