Reinforcing the message that cancer is a chapter, not the end of the story, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, one of India’s largest healthcare providers – Manipal Hospital Group

 Reported bySanchita Chatterjee, Kolkata:

 Reinforcing the message that cancer is a chapter, not the end of the story, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, one of India’s largest healthcare providers – Manipal Hospital Group – organised a heartwarming Survivors Meet – “Celebrating Cancer Warriors”. The meet was attended by Dr. Shuvayu Banerjee, Advisor and Consultant – Consultant, Comprehensive Cancer Care Centre, Senior Consultant-GI Oncology, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria and other eminent oncologists and physicians of the hospital. The event brought together cancer survivors, caregivers, doctors and community members to honour the triumph of resilience, recovery and the human spirit.

Cancer remains one of the major health challenges globally and in India, with lakhs of new cases being reported every year. However, advances in early diagnosis, precision medicine and multifaceted care have significantly improved survival rates and quality of life.  Platforms like Cancer Survivors Meets play a vital role in breaking down fears, spreading awareness and providing emotional reassurance, showing that cancer is no longer a life-ending disease, but rather a manageable and often curable disease if detected and treated on time.

The event also provides a meaningful platform for cancer survivors to share their journeys of courage and determination. Many spoke about how cancer has not stopped them from pursuing their passions, hobbies and goals. By showcasing talents such as painting, photography and other creative pursuits, they showcased their strength and resilience, inspiring patients currently undergoing treatment with a message of hope that life can continue with purpose and positivity beyond cancer.

 Speaking at the event, Dr. Shubhayu Banerjee, Senior Consultant-GI Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Care Centre, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, said, “Today, cancer is no longer taboo or a fear. With advances in treatment and timely intervention, many cancers are curable, and the life expectancy and quality of life of survivors are increasing day by day. Such survivor meetings remind patients that life after cancer can be fulfilling, meaningful and empowering.”

Shri Dilip Kumar Roy, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, added, “At Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, we are committed to providing the best comprehensive cancer care through advanced technology, expert physicians and a patient-first approach. Our focus extends beyond treatment to long-term survival, mental well-being and community awareness.”

 Sharing his experience, 68-year-old male patient Pranab Sarkar said, “I no longer call myself a cancer patient, as I have been healthy for the past six years. I had prostate surgery in 2020 and fortunately, my condition was successfully treated without the need for chemotherapy or radiation. Today, my PSA report is normal, and my doctors are happy with my progress. This journey has taught me the importance of early diagnosis. I strongly believe that every man above the age of 50 should get a PSA test done once a year, as prostate-related problems are common and can be effectively managed if diagnosed at an early stage.”

 Abhishek Nandi (name changed), a 14-year-old patient, said, “I am Abhishek Nandi (name changed), and at the age of 14, I was diagnosed with a tumor on my leg, which later turned out to be cancer. After receiving initial treatment elsewhere, my family was informed that my condition was very critical. Then we came here, where Dr. Ashutosh Daga took over my treatment. For a whole year, I received dedicated care, constant support and hope during one of the most difficult times of my life. My family and I are deeply grateful for the compassion and commitment shown throughout my journey.”

Through initiatives like “Celebrating Cancer Warriors”, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria continues to spread awareness, compassion and confidence - ensuring that every cancer patient not only gets advanced treatment, but also permanent support and hope. The event was attended by leading experts, such as Dr. Prabhu Ghosh, Consultant - Urology; Dr. Ashutosh Daga, Consultant - Medical Oncology;  Dr. Shreya Bhattacharya, Consultant - Head and Neck Surgery/Oncology; Dr. Sagnik Roy, Consultant - Surgical Oncologist; Dr. Jashasvi Chakraborty, Consultant - Haematology; Dr. Parmita Roy, Consultant - Gynaecologic Oncologist; and Dr. Anirban Halder, Consultant - Radiation Oncology. The programme was further enhanced by the virtual presence of Dr. Soumen Basu, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology and Dr. Tanmoy Kumar Mandal, Consultant, Medical Oncology, which reiterated the hospital's multifaceted and patient-centric approach to comprehensive cancer care.