Beat Cancer Together

23/05/2023

Read Ias's incredible journey of triump over lymphoma and discover the power of resilience and hope.

""I live in this exact moment, so I want to make every second count."

I am Ias Naibaho, a resident of Indonesia, and I have been battling stage 4 lymphoma Hodgkin's cancer since 2017. However, the symptoms and pain started in mid-2016, primarily in my spine.

From 2016 to 2018, life felt like a roller coaster ride, but one that only went downhill. There were fleeting moments of hope, but they quickly turned into deeper despair, akin to being trapped in quicksand. I was plagued by countless suicidal thoughts, with every second filled with excruciating pain. Breathing itself became a painful ordeal. I no longer wished for recovery; all I desired was an end to the suffering. Death seemed like a viable option to escape the unbearable agony. Even painkillers offered little relief; at times, they only made my head spin. I questioned why I was still alive. Walking became a near-impossible task, and the longest distance I could manage was merely a few steps from my bed to the bathroom. It was undoubtedly the most challenging period of my life.

Yet, despite the darkness, I refused to give up entirely. Though I held little hope, I persisted and explored various medical treatments. Even if the odds were low, they were not zero. I cherished myself and mustered every ounce of strength to face this battle. To date, I have undergone 30 rounds of chemotherapy, 55 sessions of radiotherapy, and 35 sessions of immunotherapy—all while enduring the presence of cancer. Additionally, I have ventured into alternative therapies, exploring herbal, traditional, and spiritual approaches.

Today, I find myself in a much better place. I feel significantly improved, even though I am uncertain about what lies ahead. I can now lift weights at the gym, work in the office, and spend quality time with my loved ones. Life has taken on a new meaning, and I value every moment. I no longer take anything for granted.

To those reading this, cancer may seem like a gateway to death, but it might not be. The most crucial aspect lies in how we face it. Regardless of the outcome, let us give our best, live in every moment, and embrace life to the fullest."

You may support Ias Naibaho and other cancer survivors by subscribing and showing appreciation on his YouTube Channel :

15/05/2023

From Awareness to Victory: A Doctor's Triumph Over Cancer Through Early Diagnosis and Determination - Read on to know how Samrakshini G beat the beast!

"In 2021, after completing over a decade of medical education and attaining my post-graduation, I began my journey as a senior resident doctor in the same hospital. With the exams behind me, I was ready to embrace the life I had always dreamed of and was even planning to get married in a few months.

However, life had other plans for me—an unexpected and formidable exam: cancer. My cancer journey took a unique turn as I had known about my heightened risk due to a gene I carried. Despite leading a disciplined life, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing yoga and meditation, I discovered a tiny tumor in my right breast during a routine scan, much earlier than expected.

At 29 years old, I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer, even before experiencing any symptoms. The tumor was small and hadn't spread, but its aggressive nature demanded immediate action. I underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, all while navigating through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Isolated and immunocompromised, I battled moments of depression but was fortunate to have a supportive family, experienced doctors, and my personal coping mechanisms of meditation and painting.

As both a doctor and cancer survivor, I recognized the gaps in our healthcare system and yearned for a cancer support group. Seeking reassurance and camaraderie, I connected with fellow survivors, which strengthened my belief that everything would be alright one day. After my recovery, I resumed my work as a gynecologist and IVF specialist in a renowned fertility hospital. I also joined an NGO where I dedicated my free time to conducting cancer awareness and screening campaigns, primarily focused on breast and cervical cancer.

My mission is to raise awareness about cancer risks and the significance of early detection through regular checkups. I aspire to break the societal stigma surrounding cancer and create a supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their journeys. Though my own experience was emotionally, physically, and financially challenging, the prospect of a beautiful life ahead made every struggle worthwhile.

I feel fortunate to have been aware of my risk and maintained regular checkups, even in the absence of symptoms. It was this vigilance that saved me. I am driven to create awareness so that others may understand their risks and take charge of their own health. Together, let us strive for a world where early diagnosis truly saves lives."

29/09/2021

Cancer has a major effect on marriages and other long-term partnerships. After a cancer diagnosis, both individuals may experience sadness, anxiety, anger, or even hopelessness. Listen to Dr. Shubham Sabherwal on how to respond to a break-up due to cancer

17/09/2021

It has been seen that as many as half of patients with cancer have problems sleeping. The sleep disorders most likely to affect patients with cancer are insomnia and an abnormal sleep-wake cycle. There are many reasons a cancer patient may have trouble sleeping, including Physical changes caused by cancer or surgery.
Dr. Shubham Sabherwal discussed some good practices with respect to good sleep which can help cancer patients!

Shubham Sabherwal-your friend and guide

19/08/2021

"Jodi tor daak shune keu na aashe tobe ekla cholo re."
(If they pay no heed to your call walk on your own.) ~ Rabindranath Tagore
I was diagnosed with Endometrial cancer in November 2020, a day before my 30th birthday. I had a history of heavy bleeding which was often brushed off as normal and nothing worrisome. While going through heavy periods on and off, my symptoms worsened during the lockdown. I experienced incessant bleeding and huge clots - that’s when I knew something was off. An ultrasound revealed I had a very small tumor in the uterus which was thought to be a benign polyp - apparently something very frequent in women my age. This was followed by a hysteroscopic investigation, biopsies, PET scans and MRIs. Based on the reports, I was given stage IB and was told I needed a radical hysterectomy. Post my surgery, the final histopathology report came out as stage IA.
A radical hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy was performed on me - which basically means removal of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries. This surgery put me into medical menopause. Since I do not have a history of cancer in the family, the doctors deduced that my cancer was caused due to excess of estrogen hormone in the body, probably because of undiagnosed PCOS.
The major obstacle I faced was disbelief from the doctors as they had never seen this cancer in young patients. The medical fraternity believes that it is an ailment of older post-menopausal women. I had to undergo multiple biopsies and MRI reviews for everyone to finally accept that I in fact, did have cancer.
Yes, I received all the support possible to go through this tumultuous journey. My family has been my backbone and my friends - both personal and professional have stood by me in this challenging phase of life. I feel blessed for being loved by so many.
I’ve had the support of exceptional doctors who’ve lifted my spirits at every step of the way. I’d like to specially mention my onco surgeon Dr. Archit Pandit at Max Shalimar Bhag, Delhi for being my saviour and giving me a new life.
Nothing prepares you for an adversity like this. Especially when you're busy making your plans for life. I was due to be engaged in the month of my diagnosis and was to be married in April 2021. However, the diagnosis obviously gave a cruel jolt to my plans. I was suddenly thrown into survival mode where I questioned if I’d even live. I felt cheated and was now a part of the ‘Why me?’ circle. But with things like cancer, you really don’t have many convincing answers. It just happens. And the acceptance comes gradually I guess.
It’s been six months since the diagnosis and four since the surgery. I am physically healing. But mentally, I think it’s a long road ahead. The key really is to take everyday as a blessing and take it one day at a time. When death stares you in the face, you tend to change for the better. Even on days I struggle, I am thankful for everything I have and the love I receive from everyone around me.
As a 30 year old, I had never imagined cancer would befriend me. I did have some knowledge but not enough to take my symptoms seriously. It is a myth that gynecological cancers happen only after a certain age. Through my story, I want to break this myth and wish that doctors factor cancer as a possibility for all ages while treating females for gynecological ailments.
Another social devil I wish to fight is the stigma around cancer and infertility. My surgery left me infertile. Soon after, my partner and his family broke off all ties. I was now merely a cancer patient and an infertile woman - I ceased to be a ‘normal’ in their eyes. I cannot help but wonder that if an educated, independent and progressive woman like me has to bear the brunt of this societal hypocrisy, what happens to thousands of innocent females who suffer in silence due to life threatening illnesses, misdiagnosis or abandonment? This is heartbreaking and unacceptable at so many levels. Where are we heading as humans?
To all my fellow cancer warriors, I’d like to say that don’t ever think of yourselves as any less. Your illness does not and should not define you. It should only empower you. We all are stronger than we think and we are here to bloom. We got this! 🙂
~ Prakshi Saraswat, Endometrial Cancer warrior, India

11/08/2021

Caregivers often face a lot of stress and anxiety while they are taking care of patients. One of the caregivers asked a question to Dr. Shubham on how to manage such stress-related anxiety. The caregiver (kept anonymous) had asked Dr. Shubham how should she manage anxiety-related stress when her oncologist has mentioned that the life expectancy of the patient is less than a year. She needs strength to manage the patient as well as support the family emotionally. In response, Dr. Shubham reinforces that acceptance is the key to manage anxiety-related stress. Anyone who has arrived on this planet will have to leave and hence it is better to accept that leaving the planet is a part of the journey. However, he also mentions that life span prediction is a rate. In 5 years, it is seen how many patients have survived, and based on that a rate is determined. The rate can also be impacted by the response the patient is giving to the treatment and the fight the body is giving against the cancer spread. In this context it is important to note that response is not accounted for in determining the life expectancy, if the response is changed, the survival rate can change. The survival rate depends on the type of cancer, stage of cancer, age, and time period. Hence, it is important to keep the hopes high, and depending on the positive response, the survival rate may go up significantly.

Please watch this video and listen to Dr. Shubham Sabherwal

Part II | Life expectancy & Cancer

01/08/2021

Depression, anxiety, and stress affect patients & caregivers during Cancer. Hence, Beat Cancer Together welcomes Dr. Shubham Sabherwal, an experienced psychiatrist, to share his valuable expertise to help patients and caregivers deal with such situations.
Dr. Shubham says "Hope" is one of our biggest weapons in fighting against this deadly disease and it has helped both patients and caregivers! Let's listen from the doctor himself!

Shubham Sabherwal-your friend and guide

Part - I | Hope & Cancer

25/07/2021

"Believe you can and you are halfway there"

It all started when I was pursuing my B.Tech. On a fine day, I suddenly realized that my nose was bleeding after sneezing. I also realized that I am facing a huge problem with jaw movement. Unable to sustain the pain, I consulted a dentist from where I was referred to an ENT.No one could properly diagnose the problem and I was stuck in this confusion for more than 10 months. It was during one MRI scan when I had to undergo FESS( Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery) and the doctor found an unknown mass behind the nose. Eventually, the dreaded news arrived - I was diagnosed with Nasopharyngeal carcinoma IV B stage. A young promising individual looking to start his life was told about what he would never want to hear.
We went to Apollo cancer hospital and I was fortunate to meet Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy. I started chemotherapy (1st cycle, 3 days) from may 1st-3rd 2015. After that radiation was given to me for 45 days. 3 chemotherapy cycles were given to me. It was during this phase that I met a small 6 years old kid who was also taking chemotherapy with me in the same hospital. The boy was an orphan and he used to come for treatment from a small village. Dr. Vijay helped him financially. From our conversations, I realized how jovial the kid was. His innocence made my belief stronger and gave me the confidence to fight this disease. After treatment, I was advised for 3 months of bed rest. There was some official miscommunication from my college administration and I could not apply for campus placements as my B. Tech results were getting delayed indefinitely. However, I did not give up and I completed my B. Com course in 2019. Now, I also have completed my B. Tech, B. Com and will be completing M.Tech as well.
Throughout this journey, my father always said 3 things to remember - accept the situation, think for a solution, and never give up in the middle. And it inspired me to travel and see the light at the end of the tunnel. Soon after completing my treatment, I joined an NGO to help people affected by cancer. Meanwhile, I also underwent cataract surgery. By end of 2017, a piece of shocking news came my way when I realized that the NGO I have been working for is misusing 80% of the funds. Hence, I decided to come out of the NGO and start my own NGO named Daksha Welfare Association. Tough times make you understand people who care for you! And thanks to my parents and that one friend who stood with me in this fight!
Cancer has re-defined me, has changed my perspective, and made me bolder. It came as a revelation and I re-discovered myself!

~ Anjani Kumar, Nasopharyngeal carcinoma IV B stage warrior, India

10/07/2021

“Life doesn’t happen to you, it happens for you” – Tony Robbins.

It was June’19, when I detected a tiny lump in my left breast. I conveniently ignored it. After all, I can’t be the one having ‘that’ lump. I am only 32. Even voluntary mammogram tests are done only after the age of 40.

Little did I know.

A few weeks later, the lump was persisting. The doctor asked me to immediately get a ‘sono-mammogram’ done. There was concern in her voice. The report was handed over to me and I was asked to meet an oncologist. I hoped for the report to be wrong. With no family history of cancer, we decided to get an opinion from an oncologist as well to rule out chances of cancer.

Online searches and reaching out to local communities helped us zero down an Onco-surgeon in Mumbai for Breast Cancer. Fate made us meet one of the BC survivors residing in our apartment itself. The survivor family opened up for a hearty chat and shared their entire 7-8 months of cancer journey with us. The way they had fought cancer was encouraging. They were the ones who recommended one of the best Onco-surgeons and helped get an immediate appointment.

We went to see the doc next. We were still praying for the diagnosis to be wrong but Biopsy & PETScan showed Stage-2 Breast cancer. However, the good news was that while cancer had spread to my lymph nodes it had not metastasized to any other organ. Hence, was a better case of being CURABLE. It was the most precious word I had heard in the past 6 weeks.

With the diagnosis confirming breast cancer, the next step was to get the lump removed immediately. Lumpectomy was suggested in my case.

My hospital days were about to start but suddenly I got cold feet. I did not want to leave the house. I hugged & kissed my son. The tears only stopped when my husband hugged me and said “Don’t’ worry, we are together in this. This too shall pass”

While on the way to hospital, in my head I was talking to cancer. I told it that In a day, I was going to move from being a Cancer victim to a Cancer Fighter. The Game was ON. And with the upcoming Lumpectomy it was now my time to strike.

Finally, I got admitted. My surgery was successfully completed. But as I regained my senses, I noticed that I was unable to move. There was a prickling pain at multiple places in my upper body. It was part & parcel of Lumpectomy. The lump and the nearby tissues from my left breast, lymph nodes from my left armpit were all removed and tested, and finally, the “chest port” was inserted just below my right collar bone. A few simple exercises were advised to be done thrice a day to strengthen my left arm and to avoid swelling in the hand. More life-changing practices were strongly recommended and the reality finally hit me.

We received the detailed biopsy report. My line of treatment as finalised was – chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy for a total span of 15 months to kill the cancer cells (if any).

I took a sabbatical from work and stayed at home. I spent time with my family and my son and mentally prepared myself for the battle days ahead. I cut my hair short after my first chemo and after about two weeks post my first chemo, my hair started raining. I shaved them all. On noticing my shaved head, my son kept staring at my head. He wasn’t used to this sight.
During chemo months, I lost my appetite but made sure I ate and exercised well. This helped the weekly results to come out good. With the new drug, I lost my brows too. I knew that nothing was permanent so I kept my sole focus on the finish line. I was amazed at the slow transformation that was going on for both my Soul and the mind. I started writing blogs and discovered the writer in me. It gave me the courage to start working on a book which is now under progress. I got invited at multiple forums to spread breast cancer awareness and discovered the speaker in me. My story got featured at multiple forums as an inspiration for other cancer fighters. What else could I have asked for? I could not resist drawing a parallel to the transitioning caterpillar who slowly transforms to a beautiful butterfly after passing through the painful struggle to reach there.
Amidst the lockdown due to Covid, my radiation therapy was started. Due to just concluded chemo, The infection risk was high so the hospitals took extra precautions. The side effects slowed down with time and I also joined back at work. Life slowly started going back on track. I worked out at home, took extra care, and focused on being positive. I did things that made me happier.
Finally in November, 2020 my treatment got completed. Though I am under watch for the next few years, I know with my family and friends by my side, my life would be filled only with health and happiness moving ahead.

Cancer was that life threatening challenge, which actually turned into a life transforming opportunity for me. I am grateful to Cancer for the path it has set me on. The path towards living the purpose of my life daily.

~ Shreshtha Mittal, Breast Cancer warrior
Mumbai

01/07/2021

Thank you doctors for taking care of us!

12/06/2021

"Save a life. It feels good."

2013. I was 24 years old, preparing for my Ph.D. when suddenly I experienced bleeding in my gums followed by fever and loss of energy. I saw a dentist and then my family doctor. I started having nasty coughs where I would feel like life was being sucked out of me.

I underwent urine and a blood test to confirm that I was indeed diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The doctors informed my uncle about my cancer, but he could not muster the courage to tell me.

96% of my body was undergoing a cancer blast. It was high-risk cancer and I needed a bone marrow transplant as soon as possible. Out of all the resources and channels that we used, we found only one matching donor in Germany. I lost weight rapidly after the transplant. It dropped down to 35 kgs, and I showed immense weakness. Along with the transplant, my cancer treatment demanded chemotherapy and radiation. The side effects were unimaginable. I couldn't feel my legs or stand at all. It felt helpless not to be able to support my body weight for even a minute.

My treatment took place in Vellore, and I returned home after five to six months. My transplant was successful on the 6th of April 2014, but life has not been the same ever since. I gained weight healthily. Initially, my body did not have the stamina to take up a full-time job. It took six months to improve my body, mind, and overall stamina.

I got married to my long-term boyfriend in 2018. He was a constant support throughout the battle. Right from visiting me in Vellore for a week to watching me at my worst, he stood by it all and never let his choice flicker.

Though I have defeated acute lymphoblastic Leukemia at a superficial level, my battle continues to date. I have post-treatment Stress disorder and often face days of Depression where I need to fight it with all my will. I have a compromised immune system, and each year, during December or January, the cold months, I fall sick with colds. My period cycle is irregular, and I am under therapy right now.

I don't have any particular role model as such, but what inspired me were the people around me. My mother was always there for me. My father used to work abroad back then, but he left everything behind to stay by my side and read intensively about the treatment. He educated me as well. The doctors, hospital staff, and each of my family members supported me. I invested my time in reading books, writing my book on cancer, and watching a lot of cookery shows.

I published a book on my experience with the disease. It is called That Girl in the Black Hat. In my first Ted talk, I spoke about the importance of registering as a bone marrow donor. DATRI is a leading bone marrow NGO that needed a voice, and I needed a platform. Presently, I am their Goodwill ambassador.

I have finished my Ph.D. I was a Lecturer at St Xavier’s College in Ahmedabad in Gujarat. I have moved to Canada now. At the moment, I am running an initiative called The Marrow Story. It is an attempt to spread awareness about cancer and bone marrow donation through the stories of survivors.
page: The Marrow Story
Instagram:
Website: www.themarrowstory.com

Despite everything, I consider myself to be extremely blessed. I have everything life has to offer me and more. All of this because one woman in Germany decided to save my life. Imagine how many lives we could save if everyone stepped up? I just want people to know that we are all heroes. All of us have a kind of strength we haven't tapped into. We can all make it. :)

~ Steffi Mac, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Warrior, India

10/06/2021

We have extended the deadline to 16th June!

Put your thoughts and express yourself! Let's beat it together :)

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe5Vs61Ro4HDSyALeh1BzJY_W9FKUW586rfJz_8rCC_TVF8WQ/viewform

Fighting cancer is a journey, both for the patient and for the caregiver, and during this journey, it is normal to feel a need for mental support. It is important that we stand up and fight the disease together. So if you are facing depression, anxiety, or need support, this is the right place for you. We have with us Dr. Shubham Sabherwal. Dr. Shubham is associated with Global Cancer Trust and is a specialist in this field. He has helped many patients dealing with depression & anxiety due to cancer. So do not wait and share all your doubts and negative thoughts in the attached google form with this post and we promise to put up that smile on your face and help you fight this disease because together, we can :)

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe5Vs61Ro4HDSyALeh1BzJY_W9FKUW586rfJz_8rCC_TVF8WQ/viewform