Survivors shape support system for cancer

Bhavana M | NT
Bengaluru

In her journey to defeat cancer, Archana Rao said she involved her social media "friends" every step of the way to keep herself sane. A fitness enthusiast with considerable followers on her Instagram page for her workout reels, Rao said she was diagnosed with breast cancer just as she turned 50 years old, about six months ago.

Rao was one among the 10 cancer survivors who shared their story at an event organised in Bengaluru on Wednesday to launch Can Win, a cancer support group that is open to all, free of cost. An initiative by Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) to mark the National Cancer Survivors Month, Can Win is rooted in the belief that shared strength can change lives.

Can- Win will bring together oncologists, psychologists, patients, survivors, caregivers and volunteers to create a community and a safe space for those grasping at a life with cancer. "In my immediate circle, nobody had cancer. So, they had no clue about the fear that grips you when you are diagnosed with cancer," Rao said.

Dr Sridhar P S, radiation oncologist at Apollo Cancer Institute at Bannerghatta Road, said even given the fact that support groups can be a double-edged sword at times -- and could easily result in fear mongering -- they have proven them- selves to be integral for cancer patients' as well as their caregivers' mental health. Shahina, who won her battle with breast cancer and has remained cancer free for two years now, said the memory of her struggle is still afresh even after two years. "I could not have made it without the support of family and friends. So many friends called me when I had gone bald because of chemo."