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Cancer Survivors Unite: Adyar Institute Celebrates Life
2 Aug
Summary
- Hundreds of cancer survivors reunited at Adyar Cancer Institute's annual event.
- The institute, founded in 1954, has grown from a 12-bed hospital.
- Survivors shared inspiring stories of recovery and reintegration.
Hundreds of cancer survivors congregated at the Adyar Cancer Institute (WIA) in Chennai on Saturday for its Annual Survivors' Reunion Day. This significant event, organized after a hiatus necessitated by the Covid pandemic, brought together a diverse group of survivors, medical professionals, and hospital staff. The institute, established in 1954 by Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy, has transformed from its humble beginnings as a 12-bed facility into a prominent center for cancer care.
During the reunion, survivors shared their personal journeys of overcoming the disease and reintegrating into society. One such survivor, Diya Fathima, a 10-year-old when first admitted in 2010, is now in her final year of college, testament to the institution's life-saving impact. Dr. Kalpana Balakrishnan, CEO and Medical Director, emphasized that the event honors those who have successfully recovered and returned to their lives. Sara Cherian, founder of Cherian Foundation, which provides free wigs to the hospital, highlighted the event's importance in assuring survivors they are not alone. Deepa Ramani, a survivor of a childhood brain tumour, spoke about the emotional challenges faced during treatment, advocating for empathy over sympathy.
