Vandana, India

I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2009. Surgeries, treatment and follow-ups left a deep impact on me physically and emotionally. Post my second surgery I had flatlined ( my heart stopped) and I was revived just in time ( the doctor said so) . A few seconds delay would have cost me my life. Today I live with an irreversible condition where my body does not produce/ absorb any calcium( complete parathyroidectomy). I am on a daily dose of very  heavy calcium supplements. A day without them would mean death the next day! From losing my voice for an year to nearly dying...it's been a rollercoaster ride!! No , I am not scared of death, I have embraced it as an inevitability but am grateful to get another chance at life. Forever in gratitude to the universe and God almighty! 

Being someone with lived experience of cancer, I can say that life is and will never be as it was prior to diagnosis. I have multiple health challenges as a fallout of the treatment ;so I have redefined my NORMAL. I live with a NEW NORMAL and I live life to the fullest. 

While going through my treatment I had the best treatment for the cancer but did not receive any emotional support nor did my family . I made it my life purpose to be there for others who experience cancer and su port them emotionally.  I did various courses in counselling, cancer care and palliative care. Today, I am a cancer and palliative care counsellor. I have supported thousands of patients and Caregivers in their cancer journey. All my work has been pro bono. I  am also a patient advocate and raise the voice for others affected by cancer. 

I am associated with Lung Connect India foundation, as their Lead counselor.

I was felicitated by the President of India and Army wives welfare association, India for the work I do in cancer care. 

My purpose is to be there for those affected by cancer and be the voice for those who can't speak for themselves. The love of these people is my fuel and keeps me going. This is my end game!!

Finally, I believe the rhetoric that cancer is a war needs to go. Cancer is not a war. It's is a disease ...some respond to treatment and live , some don't respond to treatment and die. 

No one wins and no one looses!