In observance of Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month this year, Medica Group of Hospitals, the premier private hospital chain in Eastern India, hosted an inspiring survivors meet at Medica Superspecialty Hospital on Saturday, September 23rd. The event, themed “Standing with the Warriors of Hope,” was convened to shed light on critical aspects of gynaecological cancer. Dr. Arunava Roy, Senior Consultant, Unit Head of the Department of Gynecologic Oncology & Women Cancer Initiative, and Robotic Surgery Specialist and Trainer at Medica Hospital, dispelled myths, shared essential facts, and outlined potential signs indicative of gynaecological cancer. The event featured inspirational life stories shared by approximately 40 cancer survivors.

During the gathering, Dr. Arunava Roy, remarked, “While celebrating Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month this year, our focus is on mitigating patient uncertainties. Our aim is to facilitate swift and accessible testing for individuals of all age groups who suspect any symptoms related to gynaecological cancer. Medica has consistently waged a battle against the misconception that cancer is inevitably terminal. When detected early, cancer is highly treatable, especially through regular screenings and appropriate interventions.” He further emphasized, “It takes a collective effort to educate ourselves and our loved ones about the significance of routine check-ups and screenings. By doing so, we can detect cancer at an earlier stage and enhance the life expectancy of patients. We must persist in advocating for improved cancer treatments and prevention strategies.” He also said that “Gynecological cancer survivor meet is to celebrate the sheer courage, determination and strength of the women who underwent or are undergoing cancer treatment and surviving this dreaded disease. We hope that the stories of their journey will inspire many more women who are recently diagnosed with Gynae cancers”.

The event and the interactive session took the viewers through clinically oriented topics ranging from defining the symptoms of this cancer to the technicalities of managing the same for well-being.

As survivors continued to share their stories, Ms Suparna Rakhit, a 33-year-old, recounted her experience, saying, “I underwent Robotic surgery to remove my uterus and both fallopian tubes while preserving both my ovaries in February 2022 for stage IB uterus cancer. Since then, I have been under the exceptional care and support of the oncology team at Medica, and I am deeply grateful for their expertise and compassion. Dr. Roy gives me hope of future fertility through uterine transplant within 5 years after my treatment”

Following her, Mrs Jaba Rani Das, a 68-year-old woman, shared, “I was diagnosed with advanced stage high-grade ovarian carcinoma and underwent interval debulking surgery (removal of cancerous tumors) on February 1st, 2022. I completed chemotherapy by March 2022. I was on regular follow-up. Ovarian cancer is known for recurrence and my disease came back in lymph nodes of chest.  I received 6 cycles of chemotherapy and have been on maintenance therapy since June 2023. Today, I am relishing a normal life and remain in constant communication with my doctors. I am now cancer-free, and I encourage fellow cancer patients to seek treatment because cancer is no longer a death sentence.”

Medica, the fastest-growing healthcare group in Eastern India, had worked over the years to establish a world-class cancer treatment facility in Kolkata with excellent clinicians, cutting-edge technologies which provide a 360-degree caregiving approach.

Mr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Jt. Managing Director, Medica Group of Hospitals, conveyed, “Todays survivors gathering aims to spread the message that cancer can be effectively treated, allowing individuals to return to a regular life following proper medical care. Cancer survivors represent a beacon of hope, demonstrating that timely and appropriate treatment can truly make a significant impact. Our primary focus remains on preserving lives. Today, we are delighted to witness that the champions of cancer has come forward to spread hope among us. On behalf of Medica Oncology we are happy to witness them leading a healthy life, despite the obstacles which they have overcome.”