Page 90 - ACCF - Stories of Resilience

into her face, broke down in tears. His sons exchanged worried glances. Yet, amidst their anxiety, it was Mr. Baruah who
surprised me the most.

“This is not the end,” he said firmly, his voice steady. “If this disease can be fought, I will fight it.”
THE FIGHT BEGINS

On January 4, 2025, Mr. Baruah underwent a CECT scan of his face, neck, thorax, and abdomen. The results showed that the
tumor had spread to his upper jaw, affecting the gingivobuccal mucosa and nearby tissues. Lymph nodes in his neck were
involved. Despite minor fibrotic changes in his lungs, these were unrelated to the cancer.
The treatment plan involved surgery to remove the tumor, followed by radiation therapy and potentially chemotherapy.
However, logistical challenges loomed large. The cancer center was miles away, and the family’s financial situation was
precarious. His five sons, all daily wage earners, struggled to make ends meet.

Yet, his community rallied around him. Neighbors provided rides, monetary contributions, and moral support. “Bhuban Da
has always been there for us,” one villager said. “Now it’s our turn to help him.”

A MEETING THAT CHANGED PERSPECTIVES
During one hospital visit, I introduced Mr. Baruah to Rajiv, a patient in his early 30s battling oral cancer. Rajiv shared his
regretful story of tobacco addiction:

“I started chewing tobacco as a teenager. Everyone around me did it. I never thought it would lead to this.”

Hearing Rajiv’s story left a deep impression on Mr. Baruah. Although he had never used tobacco himself, he recognized its
prevalence in his village. Inspired, he began sharing Rajiv’s cautionary tale with his family and neighbors.
“Tobacco is not just a habit,” he said one evening. “It’s a poison. If you value your life, stay far away from it.”

90 FEED YOUR FAITH, AND YOUR FEARS WILL STARVE TO DEATH