Archive · 27 Jul 2025
From AFMC Topper to Neurologist: Harinder Dhaliwal's Inspiring Journey
Harinder Dhaliwal, who was at the top of his class in medical school, had a life-changing accident that left him unable to walk.
Despite this, he finished school, became a doctor, and moved to Canada.
There, he married a woman who also has a disability.
He continued his medical training and is now a specialist in the brain and nerves, helping patients in Canada.
He credits the kindness of others and the support of his wife for his success.
Harinder Dhaliwal topped the AFMC entrance exam and became a paraplegic after an accident in his final year.
He completed his medical degree after the accident, with the Ministry of Defence waiving his fees.
He later moved to Canada, married a quadriplegic woman, and completed his residency and a fellowship.
Dhaliwal is now an EEG & EMG Lab Director, Neurologist, and Clinical Assistant Professor in Canada.
Dhaliwal emphasizes the support he received from institutions, mentors, and his wife.
- Who
- Dr. Harinder Dhaliwal, a neurologist who is a paraplegic, and his wife, Kiran, who is a quadriplegic.
- What
- A neurologist overcame significant personal challenges to become a successful medical professional.
- When
- The accident occurred in 1998, and Dhaliwal moved to Canada in 2004.
- Where
- He is currently working in Canada, after studying and training in India and the US.
- Why
- Despite facing physical disabilities, he was able to pursue his passion for medicine, thanks to support and determination.
Challenges Faced
Triumphs Achieved
Physical Obstacles
Challenges Faced
Paralysis after accident.
Triumphs Achieved
Determination to keep going
- Profession
- Neurologist, EEG & EMG Lab Director, Clinical Assistant Professor
- Medical School
- Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC)
- Accident
- Spinal cord injury leading to paraplegia
- Spouse
- Kiran, quadriplegic, IT professional
- Fellowship
- Neurology at Yale University
- Residency
- University of Calgary
- Current location
- Surrey, British Columbia, Canada