'Thus I took up sports and decided to do something different in life. Yes, we are different and so even our lives should be a shining example of that difference,' she added.

According to her, physically challenged people have undergone so many difficulties in their lives because of the discrimination rampant in society.

'But, we don't need any sympathy, rather we need empathy from society to prove our mettle.'

Malathi is not only a sportswoman, but also works as a manager with Syndicate Bank and shelters 16 children with various disabilities at Mathru Foundation, a charitable trust in the city, established by her friends and her.

'My aim is to help and guide victims of polio from rural areas, whose parents cannot afford to send their children to school or provide medical treatment,' she said.

The book has some poignant stories from her life. Right from a hostile mother who failed to understand her properly, to poor facilities for physically challenged people in the country, Malathi has seen and gone through many difficulties.

But that has not deterred her from winning a flood of recognitions like the Padma Shri, Arjuna and Ekalavya awards.

The book has been published by Inspired Indian - a movement of writers, journalists and thinkers that promote good writing and unsung heroes.

The book has been priced at Rs. 200. It has to be ordered through the website (www.adifferentspirit.com) as it will not be available in bookstores. Part of the proceeds from the sale of the book will go to Mathru Foundation.

'Whatever struggle I have been through should be able to inspire others and that is what I wish for from the book,' Malathi signed off.