Page 80 - Essentia Vol 5 Issue 1

VOL V | ISSUE I | 5 AUGUST 2026 VOL V | ISSUE I | 5 AUGUST 2026
A BIANNUAL NEWSLETTER OF ASSAM CANCER CARE FOUNDATION A BIANNUAL NEWSLETTER OF ASSAM CANCER CARE FOUNDATION
Walking Beside

Patients in

Oncology

Nursing

Dimpi Hazarika
Nursing Superintendent
Dibrugarh Cancer Centre

One experience that stayed with me was with a
still remember my first day in the oncology ward. young woman undergoing treatment for breast
The air felt heavy with uncertainty, but there was cancer. She was more afraid of losing her hair than
I also a quiet strength in the room. Some patients of chemotherapy. I sat with her, listened and shared
sat with IV lines delivering chemotherapy, some stories of other patients who had found strength
read books and others simply looked out of the through the change. Weeks later, she walked into
window. I quickly realised that oncology nursing is the ward wearing a bright scarf and a smile. That
not only about medicine; it is about being present moment reminded me that compassion can also
in moments that matter deeply. heal.
Each morning begins with rounds, reviewing Oncology nursing has taught me resilience. I
laboratory results, preparing chemotherapy and have held hands during difficult conversations
checking that every detail is correct. Administering and celebrated when patients rang the end-
treatment requires precision, but it also requires of-treatment bell. Both moments taught me to
patience. Explaining side effects in simple balance hope with honesty.
language and reassuring patients through the It has also changed my perspective. Patients often
process can be as important as the drug itself.
remind me to value the smallest joys: laughter with
family, a walk in the morning sun, or one peaceful
The Role of an day without pain. The connection nurses build
Oncology Nurse with patients and families is profound. Even when
outcomes are not what we hope for, the trust they
 Goes beyond administering treatment by place in us is humbling.
preparing chemotherapy with precision and Being an oncology nurse can be challenging.
explaining side effects in simple language Some days carry an emotional weight that is

 Reassures patients and supports families difficult to describe. Yet there are also days filled
throughout the treatment journey with gratitude, courage and hope. Every patient

 Remains present through moments of fear, teaches me something new about love, resilience
hope and recovery and living fully despite uncertainty. This is more
than a profession; it is a journey of shared humanity.

80 Small healthy habits make a big difference 81