Page 59 - ACCF - Stories of Resilience

a promising new approach to treatment.

Early detection and prevention are crucial in the fight against cancer. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies
and skin examinations, can help identify cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. Lifestyle modifications, such
as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, can also reduce
the risk of developing cancer. In conclusion, cancer is a serious health challenge that affects millions of people worldwide.
While the disease can be devastating, advancements in research and treatment offer hope for the future. By promoting early
detection, prevention and continued research efforts, we can work towards a world where cancer is no longer a major threat
to human health. Here, below is my personal experience with my aunt who suffered and passed away from Cancer recently:
The insistent cough wracked her frail frame, a constant, unwelcome guest in her already fragile body. At 59, Usha (my aunt)
was not supposed to be this weak, this vulnerable. For decades, she had been the sturdy oak, the unwavering pillar of her
family. Her mother, now gone, had leaned on her and her two younger brothers, still struggling to find their footing, had
always looked to her for guidance, for support. Usha, the eldest, the unmarried one, had shouldered the responsibility of their
small household with quiet dignity. Cancer, a cruel and insidious enemy, had crept into her life like a thief in the night. Five
months, that’s how long she had been battling it, a silent, exhausting war waged within the confines of her small family in a
small house. The initial shock had given way to a grim determination. But the fight was draining her continuously for nearly
2 months at Assam Cancer Care Centre, Dibrugarh. She was suffering from breast cancer. She underwent a critical surgery
where her right breast was removed from her body. Due to extreme pain, she had to undergo radiation and chemotherapy
which left her weak, nauseous, feverish, depressed, anxious and so on. This shattered her completely. The financial burden,
always a constant worry, grew heavier with each passing day. Fear gripped her heart - fear for her future, fear for her brother’s
future. Then, a few weeks before her own demise, her mother, her anchor, her pillar, passed away. The loss was a blow that
nearly shattered her. On November 9th, Usha took her last breath. Usha, the single, unsung hero of her family, might be gone
but her spirit, her strength, will forever live o in their hearts.

Dimpee Konwar
Palliative Nurse COP, Dhemaji

ASSAM CANCER CARE FOUNDATION 59