When cancer survivors share their trials and tribulations with those undergoing treatment for the disease, the tales of courage provide hope to the grief-stricken. “Nobody should fear cancer. They should embrace it and then muster courage to fight it boldly. And if patients do that, then they will come out of the ordeal unscathed,” says Sravanthi, a survivor.
Such experiences and suggestions, by cancer survivors, on ways to counter the pain of treatment for cancer were abundant in the World Cancer Survivors Day celebrations, held at Apollo Hospital on Thursday.
Informative
True to the theme ‘I am a Survivor', former cancer patients tried to provide vital information to the existing patients.
“Family support, a good doctor and loads of self-confidence are vital to fight this ailment. I was diagnosed of this ailment a year back and now I am normal. Early diagnosis also helps a lot. But, at the end, the patient should not lose hope and strive to fight on,” says Venkateswara Rao, another survivor.
Nearly 150 such cancer survivors are participating in the two-day celebrations at Apollo Hospitals inaugurated by Minister for Health Danam Nagender.
“A survivor who has already undergone cancer treatment is the best person to share experiences with patients. The aim is to drive home the point that cancer is curable and there is hope,” said Director of Apollo Cancer Hospital Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy.
“It gives us courage that we are not alone in this fight. After interacting with them, I feel confidant enough that I would survive this ordeal. I am lucky that they have diagnosed cancer early and the doctors are giving me hope,” says Laxmi, a chemotherapy patient.
Carnival
A ‘Cancer Survivors Carnival', replete with cultural programmes including songs, mimicry and other cultural activities are lined up on Friday, for patients and survivors. Well known actor Daggubati Rana was present in the function.
