Mumbai/Kolkata, 5th January’25: As William Shakespeare said, ‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women are merely players’, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (A part of Manipal Hospitals Group) celebrated in a unique manner this World Cancer Day. Medica will be giving cancer survivors the spotlight to script their own inspiring stories—turning their journey from struggle to strength into a powerful performance. Today, Medica Superspecialty Hospital hosted an inspiring cancer survivor’s meet on World Cancer Day in the esteemed presence of Mr. Chandan Sen, renowned theatre artist and director along with Prof. (Dr.) Subir Ganguly, Senior Consultant, Advisor, Radiation Oncology; Dr. Sourav Datta, Director, Medica Oncology & Senior Consultant, Head and Neck Oncosurgery; Dr. Abhay Kumar, Senior Consultant & Head (Urology, Surgical Oncology, Robotic Surgery) and Dr. Arunava Roy, Senior Consultant and Head, Gynaecologic Oncology and Robotic Surgery. The venue echoed with applause as survivors, their families and doctors came together to share the tale of fear, hope and strength. Any cancer hero with a flair for acting, they will be able to participate in the workshop under the direction of renowned thespian Chandan Sen, these warriors will take centre stage, turning their battles into inspiring performances. This World Cancer Day, these survivors don’t just continue their lives, it is time they will shine under lights, stage and action.
Cancer’s impact is deep and extensive. Yet, in the darkest times, the human spirit finds a way to lighten the path to recovery. The road to survival is not only about fighting against cancer but overcoming emotional and psychological hurdles. The World Cancer Day 2025 marks the first year of the new ‘United by Unique’ campaign, which focuses on a people-centred approach to cancer care. This approach represents a fundamental shift in how health and cancer services are designed and delivered, placing individuals, families, and communities at the heart of health systems.
According to recent data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the projected number of cancer cases in India by 2025 is expected to reach 15.7 lakh, indicating a rise from 14.6 lakh cases in 2022. Globally, the number of cancer cases is expected to increase to 35 million by 2050. To build a community where survivors can gain mental strength from each other’s experiences and encourage one another on their continuing journeys. Medica wanted to establish a supportive network for patients on the occasion of World Cancer Day.
Prof. (Dr.) Subir Ganguly, Senior Consultant, Advisor, Radiation Oncology, stated, “This program is to raise cancer awareness among the common people at large. Understanding the urgency and the need to bridge this healthcare gap, Medica’s Oncology team is taking proactive steps. We recognize that the density of cancer or the potential for timely detection is higher due to the lack of awareness and persistent social taboos. We firmly believe that cancer knows no boundaries, and our efforts aim to ensure that quality healthcare reaches every corner.”
Dr. Sourav Datta, Director, Medica Oncology & Senior Consultant, Head and Neck Oncosurgery, opined, “It is not just the treatment of the patient, but we want to give them back the normal life as well. Despite of all the odds, they can enjoy every bit of life, and this is our key idea. So, for that reason, we have thought of organizing a drama workshop, which can be participated by any cancer survivor. This initiative will not only boost the morale of the patients, but also give a huge positive message to all the cancer survivors, that cancer has not stopped anything from their life.”
In the meet, Baishali Mukherjee, an ovarian cancer survivor stated “Five years ago, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer—a moment that turned my world upside down. I never thought I would be able to lead a normal life again. The journey through treatment was tough, but today, I am fully recovered, married, and blessed with a beautiful baby. Today, completing my first day at work here at Medica, the very place that played a crucial role in my recovery, feels like life has come full circle. I am grateful for this opportunity and hope my story inspires others to never give up.”
In the meet, Dipankar Saha, a male kidney cancer patient shared his story. He said, “I was diagnosed with kidney cancer and underwent radical nephrectomy (procedure of removing the entire kidney along with surrounding tissues) and I am now out of danger. Cancer may have taken an important organ from my body but failed to snatch my spirit. Today I am standing strong and leading a healthy life. I am grateful to all the doctors of Medica Superspecialty Hospital and my caregivers.”
Shibnath Dutta, a male prostate cancer patient stated, “I was a Central Government Health Scheme employee. My retirement was meant to be the time of peace. This cancer journey is difficult. I am now going through the hormone therapy, and the disease is under control. Now I am cherishing every moment of my life with family.”
Rakhi Bhattacharjee, from Harinavi, South 24th Parganas, Professional Singer and Homemaker, stated, “From battling adrenal tumour to embracing a disease-free life, my journey is one that was mired with challenges. With Medica Cancer Hospital’s expert care, I regained my health and could return to my passion of music – living life to the fullest.”
Kartik Chandra Ghosh, stated, “Fighting bladder cancer was a tough journey. This was detected in the pathological tumor stage but with the right treatment and support from Medica oncology team, I have emerged cancer-free. Today, I continue my duty with West Bengal Police and find joy in playing musical instruments – living life with gratitude and passion.”
Mr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals, East, shared, “Human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. As the saying goes that we cannot direct the wind but can adjust the sail. So, if cancer strikes, we need not think that it is the end of the journey neither we can stop it from striking. But we can consult doctors and with advancements in technology and clinical protocols we can treat the disease. The government’s focus to facilitate setting up of Day Care Cancer Centres in all district hospitals in the next 3 years during the recent union budget gives all of us a relief, hope and strength. Let us not lose hope, rather let’s fight cancer.”
