Debdulal Chakraborty, from Bankura, West Bengal, was struck with a devastating diagnosis in January 2019: lung cancer. The once-familiar symptoms of cough, breathlessness, and fever turned into a nightmare. Despite numerous tests, the local doctors couldn’t pinpoint the cause. It wasn’t until a CT scan revealed a tumor in his right lung that the truth dawned upon him.
“It was like a bolt of lightning,” Debdulal recalls. “I was terrified. What would happen to my family? How would I provide for them?”
The news was a cruel blow. Debdulal, the sole breadwinner for his young family, faced an uncertain future. Fear gnawed at him as he thought of his wife and children. Yet, he knew he couldn’t give up. With the support of his loved ones, he sought help at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai.
There, a series of tests confirmed his worst fears: he had ALK+ lung cancer. The doctors prescribed Crizotinib, a medication that came with a hefty price tag. For a middle-class man like Debdulal, the cost was a mountain he feared he couldn’t climb.
“The medication was expensive, but I knew it was my only hope,” Debdulal says. “I was determined to do whatever it took to get it.”
The pandemic further complicated his journey. Lockdowns made it difficult to access his life-saving medication. But Debdulal found solace in Lung Connect, a support group that provided not just medicines but also emotional support.
“Lung Connect has been a lifeline for me,” Debdulal says. “The support and encouragement from other patients have helped me stay strong.”
Debdulal hopes to inspire others battling lung cancer and advocate for more accessible life-saving medications. He also seeks support from those who want to contribute to managing the cost of this treatment.
“I want to make a difference,” Debdulal says. “If my story can help even one person, then it’s worth it.”
This is the story of Mr Debdulal Chakraborty who is from Bankura, West Bengal. He was detected with lung cancer in January, 2019. First, when he was having symptoms like cough and breathlessness, fever, vomiting, pain in the right leg the doctors here thought maybe it was tuberculosis (TB). He went through all the tests for TB but everything came out to be negative. So, the local doctor suggested to go to a bigger facility. He went to the district hospital without any delay. A CT Scan was done for him in the Pulmonology Department. The reports devastated him as it showed a tumor in his right lung. To add further information to the tumor, the doctors performed FNAC, where it came out to be malignant. He became numb in that point that how he went to the hospital as a normal patient and came out of the hospital after a week as a cancer patient. So many thoughts tickled his mind which he had never thought in his nightmare also. He was only thinking about his children who were too young and his wife who is a homemaker. He is the sole bread earner of the family. However, the journey has to go on, so his well-wishers and family suggested him to go to Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. He was even facing some problem with his right eye. Over there again, he went through a series of test which confirmed that he had ALK + lung cancer. The doctors over there suggested him to take Crizotinib 250 mg. The medicine is very expensive for a middle class person. The medicines cost 1 Lakh approximately per packet which contains 60 capsules. He is very worried that how many months he can pull this off! In 2020, due to lockdown there was a deadlock situation as he was not able get his medicines at home. Lung Connect India Foundation came to his rescue over there and helped him to get his medicines on time. He has been a very regular supporter of Lung Connect and also tries never to miss the Support Group Meetings. He appreciates Lung Connect for providing him some emotional and mental support. He shares his cancer journey with us saying, “may be my story will inspire a few more new lung cancer patients”. He wants to join us in patient advocacy where he wants to reach out to the policy makers for helping patients like him to take these medicines for a long time as these medicines are very expensive. He says, “If anyone feels to extend any financial help for my treatment, kindly reach to Mr Sanjeev Sharma for the same.
Swapna Zimba, from Siliguri, West Bengal, has been battling metastatic adenocarcinoma since May 2023. Her journey has been marked by immense physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
“The day I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer was the toughest day of my life,” Swapna recalls. “I felt like I was drowning.”
Despite the overwhelming odds, Swapna has remained determined. She has undergone a series of treatments, including radiation therapy, to combat the disease. “I’m fighting every day,” she says. “I won’t give up.”
However, the journey has been far from easy. Lung cancer has taken a toll on her physical health, leaving her feeling weak and exhausted. The mental and emotional strain has been equally challenging.
“It’s not just the physical pain,” Swapna explains. “The fear, the uncertainty, the constant worry – it’s overwhelming.”
Financial burdens have also compounded her struggles. The cost of treatment, medications, and daily living expenses can be overwhelming for many cancer patients.
Despite these challenges, Swapna remains hopeful. She finds solace and support in the Lung Connect community. “The support group meetings have been invaluable,” she says. “I’ve met so many compassionate people who understand what I’m going through.”
Swapna’s story is a testament to her strength and resilience. She continues to fight bravely, one day at a time. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
She ends by saying, “Even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.”
This is the story of Mrs Swapna Zimba who is from Siliguri, West Bengal. Through this article, she wants to express her feelings about how she has been dealing with lung cancer and also some problems that she is dealing with. She was detected with Metastatic adenocarcinoma in May, 2023. She did not spent much time in Siliguri and promptly came to Tata Memorial Hospital for taking a proper treatment. Over there, she went through a series of tests like CT Scan, PET-CT Scan, MRI Brain and finally found out that my lung cancer is metastatic and in Stage 4. That day was the toughest day in her life and felt like drowned in a duck well. She could not believe that how could this happen to her as a young age woman. She is an emotional person and cannot hold her tears when I remember that day. However, she is a strong part of her society and her family. They are all looking forward to her that she will go through this with ease. So, she made up her mind to fight this. She got Osimertinib 80 mg- one capsule per day as her lifetime friend. The disease was under control with this tablet till nine months. However, after that the medicine decided not to work in my body and my disease progressed. The disease has metastases to brain and currently she is undergoing radiation. She says, “Now, let me talk about my challenges because we have to Lung Cancer is not like fever. Sometimes, it will throw challenges at you that you never thought.” It has taken over my physical health now. I am also facing significant mental and financial strains. The journey has been really difficult for her not only because of her obvious physical breakdowns but also mental and financial burdens. She is trying her best to fight the disease till now, but she says that this article will help other patients understand that you cannot win over cancer every time. She loves to be a part of Lung Connect because from here she gets very resourceful stuffs and also some mental support. The support group meetings also help her solve her some physical problems from the doctors who join here. She says, “Despite so many hurdles, there are many compassionate people who try their best to help you and Lung Connect is one of them”. Please keep her in your prayers so that she can fight the disease as long as possible.
Rushikesh Jayale, from Yavatmal, Maharashtra, was living his dream life when his world was shattered by a devastating diagnosis: lung cancer.
“It was a shock,” Rushikesh recalls. “I was so young, and I had never smoked a day in my life.”
The symptoms crept up on him gradually – persistent coughing, blood in his sputum, and a growing sense of weakness. When the tests confirmed his worst fears, Rushikesh felt like his world was crumbling around him.
“I was broken,” he admits. “I couldn’t believe it was happening to me.”
The road ahead was filled with challenges. Rushikesh underwent surgery and chemotherapy, enduring the physical and emotional toll of treatment.
“It was tough,” he says. “There were days when I didn’t think I could make it.”
But Rushikesh’s spirit was indomitable. With the support of his family, friends, and medical team, he fought bravely against the disease.
“I’m grateful for everyone who helped me,” Rushikesh says. “Their support gave me the strength to keep going.”
Today, Rushikesh is a lung cancer survivor. He is determined to use his experience to help others who are battling the disease.
“I want to be a part of Lung Connect,” he says. “I want to share my story and offer support to others who are going through what I went through.”
Rushikesh believes that more research is needed to understand and combat lung cancer. He also emphasizes the importance of clinical trials and staying informed about the latest developments in the field.
As Rushikesh looks to the future, he is filled with hope. He is determined to live a full and meaningful life, free from the fear of cancer.
“I need all of your blessings,” he says. “So that I can be cancer-free for life.”
This is the story of a young man Mr Rushikesh Jayale who is from Yavatmal, Maharashtra. He had finished his mechanical engineering and was working in a company and almost living his dream life when he started coughing. The symptoms persisted even after taking all the regular medicines possible. One fine day he saw there was blood while coughing. Then he quickly told his family about this. They took him the National Cancer Institute, Nagpur without any delay. Over there he got his CT scan, PET-CT Scan and Biopsy done which showed carcinoma in his right lung in October, 2021. He was literally broken down to know that he had Lung Cancer at such a young age being a nonsmoker. His symptoms were weakness, swollen joints and after some days he could not walk properly or hold a pen properly. He had continuous spells of fever and lost 10kgs of weight at an alarming rate. Doctors suggested for surgery and chemotherapies. He got his surgery done in March 2022 and after that he was prescribed with with some oral medicines. He is a lung cancer survivor now. He fought it really well with the help of all the doctors, support staffs and all the blessing received. As he is a very young man he wants to be a part of Lung Connect so that he can help more and more people who are going the same situation as his. He wants to add his values to the patient advocacy. He feels a lot of research is needed in Lung Cancer. He also feels that the clinical trials are very important and one must keep yourself informed about the latest developments going on in Lung Cancer. And whoever reading this he says, “I need all of yours blessings so that I can be cancer free for life”.
Bhuaal is caregiver and husband to Anita Bharti, a young woman from Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh, has been battling lung cancer since January 2023. Her journey has been filled with fear, uncertainty, and immense courage.
“When the doctor told me I had lung cancer, it felt like my world was falling apart,” Anita recalls. “I was terrified. I had lost my father-in-law to cancer just a few years ago.”
The disease had spread rapidly, affecting her eye, breast, lungs, and throat. Anita underwent a series of surgeries and treatments, but the pain and suffering were unbearable.
“There were days when I thought I couldn’t take it anymore,” she says. “But I knew I had to fight for my family.”
Anita’s husband, Bhuaal, was her unwavering support. Together, they faced the challenges head-on, refusing to give up hope.
“We told each other that we would overcome this,” Bhuaal says. “We had to stay positive and strong.”
Anita’s family and friends rallied around her, offering their love, support, and prayers. The Lung Connect community also provided invaluable support, answering her questions and offering encouragement.
“The Lung Connect group has been a lifeline for me,” Anita says. “I’ve received so much support and advice from other cancer patients.”
Despite the physical and emotional toll of the disease, Anita remains determined. She is undergoing targeted therapy at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, and her condition is stable.
“I’m fighting every day,” Anita says. “I won’t let cancer defeat me.”
Anita’s story is a testament to her courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit. She is a beacon of hope for others battling lung cancer. As she says, “Your courage and strength are greater than the disease.”
This is the story of a young couple who are from Maharajganj district in Uttar Pradesh and currently reside in Gorakhpur district, Uttar Pradesh. The patient, Mrs. Anita Bharti, aged 32, is suffering from lung cancer. Her treatment is ongoing at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. Her journey with cancer began in January 2023 when she developed swelling in her right eye, which began to bulge outward. After an MRI, it was discovered that there was a tumor in her eye, and she was referred to AIIMS, New Delhi, for further treatment. Upon learning about the tumor, she was devastated and terrified due to an unknown fear, as I had lost my father in law to hepatocellular carcinoma caused by a liver tumor five years ago in 2018. From February 2023 to July 2023, she had got treated at AIIMS, New Delhi, where a PET CT scan revealed that the disease had spread to several areas, including the eye, breast, lungs, and throat. Doctors at AIIMS conducted additional tests such as ultrasound and mammography for the throat and breast. After a biopsy and subsequent surgery, it was determined that the breast tumor was thankfully benign. However, there was no effective treatment for the eye tumor, and by July 2023, the pain in the eye had become unbearable, and it appeared even more bulging. Due to delays in scheduling eye surgery in the eye and neurosurgery departments, she on the advice of well-wishers and friends, went to the renowned eye hospital in Chennai, in August 2023. After a PET CT scan, biopsy, and other related tests, it was found that she had Stage 4 lung cancer. Upon learning this, she and her husband, Bhuaal cried for several days. They lost their appetite and were consumed by thoughts of why this was happening to them. They were overwhelmed with anxiety about our family and children, and the future seemed bleak. Then, while in Chennai, she and her husband and said that if they give up, this disease will take over, so they must not surrender but fight and overcome it. They needed to maintain positive thoughts, stay happy, and practice regular yoga and pranayama. After that, she spoke with relatives, close family, friends, and colleagues. They all gave me immense courage, support, and committed to helping us as needed. Understanding the severity of the patient, her husband decided to have her treatment at the premier cancer institute, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and traveled directly from Chennai to Mumbai. After reviewing all previous tests and conducting additional necessary examinations, treatment began after a month doctors recommended targeted therapy. Treatment commenced on October 5, 2023. Currently, her condition is stable. There were some issues with the side effects of the medication, but now almost everything is normal, and the medication continues uninterrupted. They are trying to live our lives happily. She would like to tell all fellow cancer fighters that while the disease is significant, your courage and strength are even greater. The advocacy group Lung Connect has played a highly commendable role in this journey. I have received immense support from the creators, organizers, doctors, and fellow cancer patients in this group. Many questions that arose in my mind were answered without even asking. My husband is really very stressed out on how he will manage the expenses of my medicine. She wants to tell everyone especially to the policymakers that the cost of treatment for lung cancer is very high for middle class people like them. Her support system is her husband and her two small daughters. Bhuaal says, “Anyone wants to donate any amount for my wife’s treatment, kindly reach out to Mr Sanjeev Sharma. We are trying our best to fight this.
Hello everyone, I am Paresh Shah, and I hail from Gujarat, India. I would like to share my personal journey with all of you, in the hope that it might offer strength and support to those facing similar challenges. In 2018, I received the diagnosis of lung cancer, and that moment was, without a doubt, one of the most devastating of my life. When the doctor told me the news, I was overcome with emotions and tears. The thought of facing such a serious illness filled me with fear, and I wondered how I would cope with what lay ahead. However, as I reflected on my situation, I realized that life, in general, is uncertain. No one is guaranteed tomorrow. Every day, we hear about accidents, heart attacks, and other untimely deaths, and yet, we continue to move forward. My cancer diagnosis, as difficult as it was, was just another challenge to face. Over time, I came to a powerful realization: cancer is not a death sentence. It is simply a disease that gives me time to live my life in a different way—perhaps more fully than before. From that moment on, I decided that I would not allow my diagnosis to break me. I would choose to live my life with purpose and joy, no matter the circumstances. I understood that while I may not have control over the disease itself, I still had control over how I responded to it. This mindset helped me regain my sense of peace and focus. I am extremely fortunate to have a deeply supportive family. My wife, in particular, has been my pillar of strength. Her constant encouragement has kept me going through the toughest times. She often reminds me that while we can’t control when our time will come, we can certainly control how we live until that time arrives. Her support has been unwavering, and I truly believe that her positive attitude and care have been instrumental in my healing. She was especially firm about ensuring that I eat properly during my treatments. Chemotherapy and radiation took a huge toll on my body, and I lost around 10 kilograms in the process. At times, I simply didn’t feel like eating, as chemotherapy often causes a loss of appetite. But my wife’s gentle reminders to eat and maintain a balanced diet were vital. She made sure that I consumed nutritious meals to help my body heal and stay strong, even when I didn’t have the energy or desire to do so. To anyone undergoing treatment, I urge you to listen to your body and take the time to nourish yourself properly, even when you don’t feel like it. You may not have an appetite, but eating a proper diet is essential for maintaining your strength and resilience. Cancer treatment can drain you physically and mentally, and the body needs fuel to recover. Don’t neglect this—eat well, even if it’s just small portions at a time. Throughout my treatment, I have been receiving care at Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) in Mumbai, which is one of the leading cancer treatment centers in India. I have undergone chemotherapy, radiation, and am currently on targeted therapy. The journey has not been easy, but I have learned so much from the process. The medical team at TMH has been exceptional, and their support has made a huge difference in my treatment. Their professionalism and compassion give me confidence in my ability to keep fighting. However, despite the medical treatments and physical care, it is also essential to look after one’s mental health during this journey. There will be days when negativity and fear will cloud your thoughts, and that’s completely normal. I have certainly experienced moments of doubt and frustration, but I have learned that it’s important not to let those thoughts control me. I realized that staying busy with whatever strength I had—whether it was reading, spending time with my family, or engaging in a hobby—helped keep my mind off the negative thoughts. It’s not easy to completely avoid negativity, and I don’t believe it’s realistic to try to suppress it. But keeping my mind occupied with positive activities has helped me stay grounded. Another crucial element of this journey has been the support from others who understand my experiences. This is why I chose to join Lung Connect India Foundation, a patient support group for lung cancer patients. Being part of such a group has been incredibly comforting. It is a space where I can connect with others who are going through similar struggles and share my fears, hopes, and triumphs. We support each other, and in that support, I find the strength to continue. I believe that the journey of cancer treatment is not one that should be faced alone. It’s important to find people with whom you can share your hardships and who can help you keep your spirit alive. The group provides an invaluable sense of belonging and camaraderie, and it’s a reminder that we are not alone in this fight. In conclusion, my cancer journey has taught me the importance of embracing life with gratitude, even in the face of challenges. I have learned to cherish every moment, to stay strong, and to surround myself with positive influences. It’s not easy, but with the support of loved ones and communities like Lung Connect India Foundation, we can face even the darkest days with hope and resilience. To anyone facing cancer or any other difficult circumstance, I urge you to never give up. Keep fighting, stay positive, and always remember that we are stronger than we think. Stay strong and live each day to the fullest.
Nandlal Gupta, a resident of rural Uttar Pradesh, India, is courageously battling advanced lung cancer, a disease he never expected to face. Diagnosed in 2022, his journey has been filled with immense challenges. Initially, Nandlal had no major symptoms except for a persistent cough, which he thought was harmless. However, the shock was overwhelming when he learned that this seemingly minor issue was actually a sign of advanced lung cancer. The news was particularly hard to accept, as Nandlal had never smoked or consumed alcohol, two factors often associated with the disease. Nandlal comes from a modest financial background, and his diagnosis has placed a significant strain on his family. Before his illness, he worked hard selling goods door-to-door, earning a living through his own labor. His work allowed him to provide for his wife and young son, but his health soon began to decline, making it impossible for him to continue his job. Faced with this challenge, Nandlal opened a small shop near his home to support his family, but the costs of cancer treatment quickly overwhelmed his finances. While he has received some support from Lung Connect India Foundation, the ongoing medical expenses have continued to add pressure, making it difficult to make ends meet. With a 3-year-old son and a wife to care for, Nandlal is understandably anxious about their future. His illness has not only impacted his ability to earn a living but has also placed a heavy emotional burden on his family. He worries about the financial stability of his household and his ability to provide for his loved ones. As the cost of treatment continues to rise, Nandlal’s anxiety only deepens, and the fear of an uncertain future weighs heavily on his mind. Nandlal’s story is not unique; it is a reflection of the struggles faced by many cancer patients in India, especially those from lower-income backgrounds. In a country where financial instability often limits access to quality healthcare, many cancer patients find themselves in a desperate situation. The cost of treatment is often too high for families to bear, and many are forced to choose between life-saving care and basic necessities. Nandlal’s situation highlights the urgent need for greater access to affordable healthcare and financial assistance for cancer patients. Despite these challenges, Nandlal remains determined to keep fighting. He shares his story not only to raise awareness about his own struggles but also to highlight the plight of countless others in similar situations. Nandlal urges others to help those in need, as every person battling cancer deserves a chance to live. His strength and resilience in the face of such adversity are truly inspiring. Through his story, Nandlal calls on the community to come together and support cancer patients who are struggling with both the physical and financial toll of their illness. Nandlal’s plea is a reminder that we all have a role to play in helping those in need. Whether through financial support, raising awareness, or simply offering emotional encouragement, we can all make a difference in the lives of those battling cancer. His journey is a powerful call to action, urging us to recognize the challenges faced by cancer patients and to offer our support in whatever way we can. Every person battling cancer deserves a chance at life, and together, we can help make that a reality for more families like Nandlal’s.
Mohammad Rizwan’s experience as a caregiver to his wife, Sana Rizwan, shines a light on the many emotional, financial, and physical challenges that families face when dealing with a serious illness. In 2021, Sana was diagnosed with Stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer, a diagnosis that came after months of unexplained leg pain. Rizwan’s persistence in seeking further medical attention, including urging for an X-ray review, ultimately led to the discovery of the cancer, which had otherwise been missed in earlier examinations. His determination to ensure that his wife received the correct diagnosis was crucial, and it underscored the critical role caregivers play in navigating the medical system. The couple’s journey became a constant balancing act of stress and uncertainty. Rizwan found himself managing treatment decisions, dealing with the financial strain of medical costs, and supporting the emotional well-being of their young son. The emotional toll was overwhelming. As a father, Rizwan had to find a way to explain his wife’s illness to their son while also providing stability and care. At the same time, he was overwhelmed by the reality of the financial burdens that came with cancer treatment. Although the costs were daunting, Rizwan found some relief through the support of his workplace, which provided assistance during this difficult time. Additionally, his family rallied around him, offering both emotional support and practical help whenever needed. Despite the many obstacles, Rizwan’s mental and emotional well-being was also a priority. He realized that caregiving could take a toll on his own health, and he recognized the importance of seeking mental health support. Rizwan’s openness to seeking professional help ensured that he could continue to care for his wife without sacrificing his own well-being. This decision was a crucial one, as caregivers often neglect their own health while focusing on the needs of their loved ones. By taking care of himself, Rizwan was better able to support his wife through her treatment journey. Alongside the daily struggles, Rizwan and Sana made a conscious effort to live fully, cherishing the moments they had together. Despite the grim diagnosis, they found solace in small joys, such as traveling to Kashmir to create lasting memories as a family. They also planned a pilgrimage to Mecca, an important spiritual journey that brought them peace during such a difficult time. These experiences, while bittersweet, served as reminders of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of finding moments of joy even in the face of hardship. Rizwan’s story is a powerful reflection of the challenges caregivers face. Caregiving for a loved one with a life-threatening illness is often emotionally and physically exhausting, and caregivers must navigate countless responsibilities. Rizwan’s ability to manage his wife’s treatment, support his son, and maintain his own health speaks to his incredible strength and resilience. His story highlights the need for a robust support system for both cancer patients and their caregivers. It also emphasizes the importance of mental health support for caregivers, reminding us that they, too, need care and attention as they manage their roles. Rizwan’s journey is an inspiring reminder of the power of love, resilience, and community in the face of life’s most difficult challenges.
I am Suchismita Das, 27 years, a lung cancer survivor. My life was just like any unnoticed girl studying engineering before I started facing difficulties with my health. I started having breathlessness, cough and exhaustion in my day to day life. I went to a doctor who gave me some medicines but they did not give me much relief. So, I went to bigger facility for treatment where they diagnosed that my left lung was receiving less oxygen than my right lung in June, 2019. I underwent a CT scan which showed some presence of pleural effusion the lung. Going through the report, the doctor suggested for a biopsy and drained out the liquid from my lung at the hospital. Some thermocol type balls were taken out for biopsy and the liquid was tested. Though the liquid tested negative for malignancy the biopsy report mentioned some round cell tumor. So, the doctor advised us to go to a cancer hospital. We went to one of the famous cancer hospital in Mumbai. The oncologist went through the reports and said it is a rare soft tissue tumor “RHYBDOMYOSARCOMA”. He advised for chemotherapy and said a PET-CT scan will be performed post 4 cycles. If my condition improved then I need to get 12 more and 28 cycles of radiation. I was positive in my mind, that I will be take the chemotherapy and get fit and fine. However, it was not so easy. The side-effects are adverse and painful enough. Some common side-effects were vomiting, constipation and fever. In fact once my blood pressure was so low that I fainted. I lost all my hairs after second chemo. Every time, I looked into the mirror and saw myself bald I had tears. However, my family and friends always supported me. I saw many people facing the same side-effects but still continuing bravely with their treatment. I took some inspiration from them and my journey continued. I successfully completed my treatment in April, 2020. Then I completed my engineering (B.E, ECE). There was this covid and lockdown also. During the check-ups, they found a small relapse in Feb 2021 and I went through the chemotherapy and radiation once again but with a lesser intensity. The treatment finally ended in Dec, 2021. From that time, I am doing well by the grace the God. Currently, I am working. Other than that, I am also a part of an organization names- Lung Connect. I have also received 2 certificates as a cancer warrior helping other patients. I want to make people aware about lung cancer and how even if there is treatment or medicines available people are not able to take them because they are quite expensive. Though the lung cancer scenario has become much better in the last 10-15 years, but still we have a long way to go. My ultimate goal is set up some campaign like “Chai for Cancer” by which I can do some fundraising for the needy people. And also advocate from patients who come from middle class families whom no scheme actually supports.
This World Cancer Day, I find myself reflecting on a journey I never expected to take. As a physiotherapist, my life had always been about helping others recover, heal, and regain their strength. But in 2021, my own life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with lung cancer. Suddenly, I was no longer the caregiver but the patient. The transition was jarring and, at times, overwhelming. It reshaped not only how I viewed my profession but also my understanding of resilience, strength, and what it truly means to fight. The physical and emotional challenges that came with my diagnosis were immense. I went from being someone who guided others through their rehabilitation to experiencing my own struggle with treatment and recovery. The toll that cancer takes on the body is hard to put into words—the fatigue, the pain, the moments of fear, and the sense of losing control. But amidst these overwhelming challenges, I found an unexpected source of strength. I realized that the lessons I had taught others in my career—about patience, perseverance, and the power of the mind—were lessons I had to apply to myself. The journey was not easy. There were countless days when I questioned my ability to continue, when self-doubt crept in and the future seemed uncertain. But I kept pushing forward, one small step at a time. After months of treatment and rehabilitation, I reached a milestone I once thought was beyond my reach: cycling 20 kilometers. It wasn’t just a physical accomplishment; it was a powerful reminder of the resilience that lies within each of us. It symbolized not just medical progress but also the mental strength required to push through the darkest moments. That moment was a turning point. It showed me that cancer, while it alters our path, cannot define who we are or limit our potential. In fact, it often uncovers hidden strengths we never knew we had. My journey became a catalyst for transformation, not just in my body but in my mindset. I learned to appreciate every small victory, to celebrate moments of progress, no matter how minor they seemed. Today, I stand not just as a survivor, but as a cancer advocate. My mission is to amplify the voices of those who are fighting cancer, to share their stories, and to inspire others to embrace their own journeys. The road is never easy, and the challenges can feel insurmountable at times, but every step forward—no matter how small—is a victory. My own experience has taught me the importance of finding joy in the small moments, to appreciate the beauty of life, even in the face of adversity. Cancer may alter the course of our lives, but it cannot take away our spirit, our determination, or our ability to find hope. This World Cancer Day, I encourage everyone—whether you’re battling cancer or supporting someone who is—to remember that resilience lies within all of us. Together, we can continue to move forward, find strength in our shared experiences, and inspire one another to embrace the journey ahead. Let’s use this day to honor the strength of every individual fighting cancer and to keep pushing for a future where no one has to face this battle alone.
I’ve been diagnosed with ALK-positive lung cancer, and while it’s been a challenging journey, I firmly believe that it doesn’t define who I am. I am much more than my diagnosis. I am a fine arts student, and art has always been my escape, my way of expressing myself, and my source of strength. Creating artwork has been a way for me to focus on the beauty and positivity around me, helping me avoid negativity and maintain a hopeful mindset. Despite the physical and emotional toll that cancer treatment brings, I find solace in my paintings, sketches, and sculptures. They allow me to channel my feelings, my experiences, and my hopes into something tangible. I pour my heart and soul into every piece, and it’s through art that I feel most connected to my true self. The process of creating is therapeutic for me; it brings a sense of calm and purpose that helps me keep going, even on the tough days. I hope that others will connect with my art and find meaning in it. If my drawings and creations can inspire even one person or bring a little bit of joy into someone’s life, then I feel that I have succeeded. Through my artwork, I want to show that, no matter the challenges we face, there is always room for beauty, hope, and resilience. Cancer may have changed my life, but it will never take away my love for art or my desire to share it with the world. To everyone facing their own struggles, whether with illness or other challenges, I encourage you to find something that brings you peace and joy. Like art has done for me, it can serve as a reminder that we are more than our hardships, and we have the power to create, to inspire, and to continue moving forward with hope.
Mr. Soumendranath Das, a dedicated Biology teacher from Tomluk, West Bengal, India, is courageously navigating his battle with lung cancer. His journey began in September 2022, following a school trip to Darjeeling, when he developed a persistent cough. Initially, he was treated for what was thought to be a common infection. However, his symptoms worsened, and he was later misdiagnosed with tuberculosis (TB). Despite undergoing multiple treatments for TB, his condition continued to deteriorate, with increasing fatigue, weight loss, and breathlessness. It wasn’t until a CT scan revealed pleural fluid in his lungs that the true severity of his condition came to light. Further tests confirmed that he had Stage 4 Adenocarcinoma Lung Cancer, a form of cancer that is especially prevalent in non-smokers. This diagnosis was a devastating blow, but Mr. Das, who had always been a pillar of strength for his family, quickly focused on his treatment options. After molecular testing, he was prescribed Lorlatinib, a targeted therapy, which has significantly improved his condition. Though the treatment is helping, Mr. Das still faces two major challenges: mental and financial. As a father of two young daughters, the thought of their future without him weighs heavily on his heart. He constantly worries about providing for them and ensuring they have everything they need as they grow up. Financially, the cost of his treatment, approximately 1.5 lakhs per month, remains a substantial burden despite assistance programs that have provided some relief. Mr. Das is passionate about raising awareness about lung cancer, particularly the importance of early diagnosis. He encourages everyone, especially non-smokers, to seek medical help even for the smallest of symptoms. His own experience highlights how crucial it is to trust one’s instincts and seek further medical attention when necessary. He is deeply grateful for the support he has received from the Lung Connect India Foundation, which has been a pillar of emotional and practical assistance throughout his journey. Their support has given him hope, and he urges others to stay strong and hopeful, no matter how challenging the path may seem. Mr. Das’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. His unwavering focus on his family and his continued fight for life is an inspiration to all who hear his story. His journey also underscores the importance of community support and the need to raise awareness about cancer, particularly in its early stages. With each passing day, Mr. Das remains determined to stay hopeful, continue his fight, and provide for his family—proving that the strength of the human spirit is unyielding.
In 2021, during a government tour in Bangladesh, I suddenly began experiencing a persistent cough, followed by a high fever. Concerned, I consulted a doctor, and after further tests, a tumor was discovered in my right lung. While an initial biopsy showed no signs of harm, the tumor continued to grow, leading to the need for a lobectomy. Unfortunately, the biopsy results from the surgery revealed that I had invasive adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer. This diagnosis was a shock, and the journey that followed was filled with uncertainty. I underwent four rounds of chemotherapy in an attempt to control the cancer, but the treatment process was difficult and exhausting. Seeking further medical care, I traveled to Tata Memorial Hospital in India for additional treatment. As a foreigner navigating a complex medical system in a different country, I felt overwhelmed and unsure of how to manage the various procedures and challenges I faced. However, I was fortunate to receive incredible support from a social worker affiliated with The Lung Connect Foundation. Their guidance was invaluable. They helped me navigate the intricacies of the healthcare system, ensuring that I received the proper care and assistance every step of the way. The Lung Connect Foundation’s support gave me the clarity and confidence to face the challenges of my treatment with hope. Without their help, I would have struggled to manage the overwhelming situation on my own. Reflecting on my journey, I have learned a powerful lesson: “CANCER HAS SO MANY ANSWERS.” It’s not just about the diagnosis—it’s about finding the right help, the right resources, and the right support that can make all the difference. To all cancer patients and caregivers, I want to emphasize how crucial it is to reach out for support, whether through family, friends, or patient advocacy organizations like The Lung Connect Foundation. With the right help, the journey becomes a little less daunting, and the strength to overcome it grows. I am deeply grateful for the support I received and remain hopeful as I continue my treatment.