Nearly 150 cancer survivors and their near & dear ones today along with the team of doctors and nurses that helped them brave through cancer; enjoyed themselves at an exclusive screening of the latest film ‘Toilet EkPrem Katha’ organised for them by Saarthak, the Cancer Support Group of Fortis Cancer Institute, Mohali. The movie was screened at a multiplex for these brave soldiers battling cancer.
The idea of an annual get together of Cancer Survivors is to celebrate the spirit of those who have fought physically and psychologically against cancer to conquer their fears and start life afresh. The gathering reinforces the concept that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality. With snacks in hand and a hearty laugh, the survivors seemed to have left their troubles behind.
Jasbir Singh, a survivor of cancer, said: “We all are indebted to Fortis Cancer Institute Mohali for bringing us together to watch such a great movie. The few hours we spent together, made us all realize that we are not alone. The film ofcourse gave us the perfect excuse to forget about the very reason we all come together. I wait to meet others like me who have survived cancer. It gives me strength to keep fighting.”
Dr. Rajeev Bedi, Director – Medical Oncology, Fortis Cancer Institute, Mohali suggested to the Cancer Survivors to reach out to other members of the community and get them to join any free support group like Saarthak. “Typically, patients tend to become emotional and start feeling that other people can’t understand what they are going through. This makes it hard for them to relate to other people and can lead to loneliness. Don’t let them deal with their loneliness on their own. Help them join a support group with other cancer survivors who are having the same emotions,” Dr Bedi said.
Dr Narendra Bhalla, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Fortis Cancer Institute, Mohali, said, “While undergoing radiation, many patients feel scared and insecure about the future. These get-togethers help them meet people who’ve benefitted from the treatment due to their positive outlook. We hope this day turns out to be a celebration of the survivors’ indomitable spirit!”
