October being the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we chatted up with a few breast cancer survivors in the city
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 chatted up with a few survivors to know more about their tough encounter.
Anita Vesuwala, a Dadar resident, shares, "When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 39, I felt my whole life crumbling around me. Like most patients, I questioned God 'Why me? What wrong have I done? What does the future hold for me?' As I returned to normalcy, I kept thinking of whether I could help others who are going through a similar process. My onco surgeon, Dr. Sultan Pradhan, further encouraged the idea."
The Cancer Rehabilitation Clinic, initiated by Dr. Pardhan at the Prince Aly Khan Hospital, provides free non-medical support to patients and their families. Trained volunteers, including former cancer patients and health professionals, run the clinic, where free counselling and helplines are available to those who seek guidance and support.
Cancer survivor and a Nepean Sea Road resident Bani Narvekar* shares, "I hate it when people pity me because of my condition; by the grace of God I have recovered now. Apart from my husband who nurtured me despite being a chronic diabetic patient himself, I'm grateful to Anita Peters, Dr. Jayesh Shah and Purvi Dalal who taught me power yoga and still urge me to keep going."
A government employee Sheetal Patel* who is also a cancer survivor, says, "Early detection is important, otherwise the disease spreads, only to worsen the condition. After my detection at TATA Hospital, I immediately went in for a surgery. A few NGO volunteers, who counselled me after the surgery, were my biggest support. They motivated me to continue with my treatment. Now, I conduct breast cancer awareness camps for women."
The Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA) is a registered, charitable organisation working towards total management of cancer patients from awareness to rehabilitation. CPAA plays an important role in propagating "prevention through early detection" by conducting screening camps for healthy individuals at their workplace, mills, factories, etc., and also through their unique Cancer Insurance Policy.
Anita Peters, Executive Director, CPAA, says, "We are trying our best to spread the awareness about breast cancer, including door-to-door check-up facilities. We believe in helping people in need, without any discrimination. This October, we had staged a play with the help of actress Neetu Chandra of Umrao fame. The play was followed by an awareness session."
*Names changed on request
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