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Breast cancer survivor recounts her story

October being the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we chatted up with a few breast cancer survivors in westcoast

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Every year, approximately 2,000 to 2,500 cases of breast cancer are detected in Mumbai. From early detection to heavy radiation therapy followed by regular check-ups, breast cancer patients have a battle to fight, and win. We chat up with a few survivors to know more about their tough encounter.

Kandivali resident Varsha Bhimjiani, 44, says, "I was living the busiest days of my life when I ignored all possible signs. I was misguided at first, which led to a year of not knowing about the condition. Due to that ignorance, I found myself reaching the third stage of cancer. Finally, after much time had passed, I was operated and went through my radiations. Later, during my regular check-up, I was told about the possibility of contracting a liver cancer. I was told that I would live for a period of one year only; I was totally disturbed. But my family's support got me back on track to fight the disease. I went on to take Ayurvedic medicines, which worked like a miracle for me. I am stable now. "

Santacruz resident Swaranjit Sahani, 68, says, "I was operated upon in 1994; it has been 20 years now. I was lucky enough to detect the cancer at an early stage and I immediately opted for surgery. My biggest advantage was in taking prompt action. My five daughters have supported me and I am grateful to my husband and in-laws, who have stood by me. I had a positive outlook and I strongly believed that I could get through this."
Dr. Mandar Nadkarni, Breast And Colorectal Cancer Surgeon, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital And Medical Research Institute, Andheri, says, "Generally, when a woman finds a painless lump in her breast, she doesn't do anything about it, whch is wrong. Don't let the lump start causing problems. Eight out of 10 women with painless lumps do not get cancer. But there is a problem and it is detected early, she can visit the doctor and get the right treatment. Women above the age of 40 years must definitely get examined once a year."

Virar resident Leena Matthew, 49, says, "After two years of treatment, I have recovered completely. While my sons kept me going, I am also very grateful to the Cancer Patients Aids Association—they gave me the strength to get through it. Now, I have a strict schedule planned out for me. I don't want people to pity me because of my condition; I live a normal life just like regular people. One should face the problem with utmost confidence and never look back."
Juhu resident Neelam Dalal, 63, shares, "Breast cancer is just like any other disease; it is absolutely curable. Women should not ignore any symptoms. The support of family and friends is one of the biggest strengths. Be confident, stay strong and you will get through it."

The Treesome Café in Andheri supports the cause of breast cancer. Throughout October, they complimented those who entered the restaurant dressed in pink. "We came up with the idea of complimenting customers who walked in wearing pink, this October. We wanted to make our customers aware of breast cancer and also the fact that it is curable. It all started because of a family member who was once a cancer patient," says, Syesha Kapoor, Associate Director, Treesome Café.

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