Opting for a full life after cancer, women cancer survivors have formed a support group to counsel and advise others grappling with the trauma of having being diagnosed or under treatment for cancer.
The brave survivors launched a programme, titled Sparsh—Ek Pahel , at BLK Super Speciality Hospital here recently. The event was attended by over 50 cancer survivors and patients.
Surgical Oncology Head of Department and initiative patron Kapil Kumar said the group is aimed at providing regular support to survivors and to organise activities and counselling sessions to help cancer patients.
“The participants underwent an interactive physiotherapy session to reduce lymphedema risk. Besides this the participants also attended a counselling session by a psychologist on post-treatment management, a physical well-being and self care session by dietician who provided various tips, and a yoga and meditation session,” said Dr. Kumar.
Cancer survivor and coordinator for the event Sarika Rana noted that every cancer survivor is special and a unique story.
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 and underwent breast-conserving surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. I was hugely supported — research guide, friends and doctor, all of whom made a proud survivor. Fifteen months later, I am committed to making lives of cancer patients/survivors positive and to help them on the path of recovery and rehabilitation,” Ms. Rana said.
She added that she never let her battle with cancer come in the way of her professional commitments.
“I went to work every single day after my surgery, except the days I had to go for chemotherapy. My doctor said occupation therapy would take my mind off the illness. So when people like to argue that work won’t comfort you on your deathbed, I smile and say that I would like to differ.”
“The journey was all about winning small battles on an everyday basis in order to win the bigger war against cancer in the long run. I told myself every morning, even if I happen to lose my looks to cancer, I will be happy to have won the war against this disease.”
Doctors at the hospital explained that post-treatment care is very important in the prognosis. “Sparsh is a unique and first-of-its kind initiative in India for rehabilitation of 1,000 survivors who have been suffering from side effects, mood swings, social isolation, recurrence stigma, body image and physical well-being. Consultation through volunteer meeting will benefit many patients,’’ said Dr. Kumar.
Cancer survivors claim they see this as an opportunity to connect with other survivors and now work to create awareness about the social costs of the stigma attached to cancer. “The major concerns of cancer survivors include rising medical costs and a lack of awareness about common symptoms,” noted a survivor.
