Saluting Cancer Survivors

Saluting Cancer Survivors

The word CANCER can make the bravest of hearts quake with fear. Yet, there are people who have battled against this “enemy within” with courage and dignity to be called survivors. On Cancer Survivors’ Day, MapmyGenome salutes their warrior spirit — an inspiration to all. Some of our team members share true stories that are bound to inspire.

Building a New Life

When I met him at his genetic counselling appointment, he was a man who had just conquered cancer but also knew there were chances of a relapse. His first question to me was: “Yes, I have survived. How do I build a cancer-free life?” We chalked out a plan of action to help him lose weight, switch to a healthy lifestyle, and build immunity. He started running — his short-term goal was to run in the marathon. When he participated in the 10K run, it was a proud moment for him and, as his genetic counsellor, I was very proud of him too.
— Pooja Ramchandran, VP-Genetic Counselling

Darr Ke Aagey Jeet Hai

I’m a Punjabi — a born warrior. From a young age, we are taught to win. It is this instinct that probably helped my mother beat ovarian cancer. She started going for regular health checks after 40. When she was diagnosed with a tumour in the ovary, she was scared, but knew she had no choice but to fight it. When she started losing her hair during chemotherapy, she had the rest of her hair shaved off and carried off her bold and bald look in style. When she emerged victorious, she decided to help her fellow women battle cancer.
— Udbhav Relan, Product Manager

The Boy Who Lived

In 2010, our sub-staff’s son was diagnosed with a brain tumour. He survived through the darkest times thanks to his mother’s sacrifices — her jewellery, savings, hours of caring while managing a full-time job. Now, over five years since the nightmare, her son continues to live and do well.
— Pushpalatha, MapmyGenome team member

Fight Till the End

When she was first diagnosed with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma which had spread from her lungs to the brain, the doctor gave her six months. My father and brother were not willing to give up. She was left paralysed, but they ensured she got the best of care. She continued to be cheerful through her brain surgery and chemo sessions. When the end came two years later, I knew she wouldn’t suffer anymore. She lived that long because she was willing to fight. She was a true warrior.
— Geethanjali

Going Cold Turkey

“You have a month to quit tobacco — or I’m not going to do a thing about that cancer!” To my dad, who started chewing tobacco at 16, this was a decisive moment. In 2014, his “recurring” ulcer in the mouth was diagnosed as stage 4 cancer. The minute he came out of the doctor’s cabin, he threw away his stash of chewable tobacco and started preparing for the battle. It was a 15-hour surgery. Biopsy revealed that the cancer was still in its early stages and he wouldn’t need chemotherapy. He is learning to live a healthy life through regular health checks, physical activity, and a balanced diet.
— Vaibhav Gupta, Corporate Sales Manager

Do You Know a Cancer Survivor?

Share your story with pr@mapmygenome.in. We will review your story and publish it on our blog.