Email
Print
ShareOne in every 14 women runs the risk of developing breast cancer. Incidence of breast cancer is 25-30 per thousand population. It devastates women not just physically, but also psychologically.
Roopa Venkatesh, 44, a chartered accountant, was detected with breast cancer three years ago. Not only has she overcome the disease, she has also written a book on it. Cancer is a comma not a full stop was released on October 28. Roopa narrates her experience with the disease -- and how she overcame it -- to Soumita Majumdar.
How did you face the fact that you had breast cancer?
In December 2006, one day I noticed a lump in my breast. Immediately, I rushed to the nearest diagnostic centre. Mammography, ultrasound examination and biopsy -- one followed the other, and by four in the afternoon, it was confirmed that I had breast cancer. I was devastated. My perspective on life changed. Surgery was scheduled for January 2007.
How was your journey through the disease and how is life now?
With breast cancer and its treatment, it was 11 months of hell for me. My elder sister had died of cancer when she was just 33. I was determined to overcome the disease as I didn't want my parents to suffer again. My family was extremely supportive and helped me overcome the disease.
Life after breast cancer is absolutely normal. Five years ago I co-founded a software company and now it is doing very well. I also go trekking and mountaineering, participate in drama, dance and other activities.
Does cancer -- breast cancer in particular -- need a lot of emotional support?
Yes. Women associate breast with their sexuality. Thus, breast cancer instills insecurity among the patients. Cancer treatment results in the loss of hair, which is again associated with femininity. When there is the fear of losing the two, there is an emotional turmoil from within. It needs a lot of support from doctors, the immediate family and close friends to overcome this.
What motivated you to come up with a book on breast cancer?
When I got to know that I was suffering from the disease, I had so many questions, but only a few answers. There was nothing available at hand from where I could get answers to my questions. I then thought of coming up with this book.
What is your book about?
The book talks about breast cancer and the myths associated with cancer treatment. It has six chapters. Each chapter has a section on doctors' advice and a section on how family and friends should support patients in fighting the disease. Each chapter also has an inspiring story of a cancer survivor. This book will be of use to all those who want to be aware of the disease. Also, when you buy the book, the proceeds will go to a fund for breast cancer awareness among rural women.
