No matter how hard it is, or how hard it gets, I'm going to make it!”
It’s often said that we don’t truly understand someone else’s pain until we go through it ourselves — unless, somehow, we feel it in our very soul.
I had seen cancer patients, heard their stories, watched documentaries on survivors- brave souls who either conquered the disease or faced it with remarkable strength.
Hats off to every single one of them - those who fought to live, and those who kept smiling through the storm.
Today, I want to share my story.
My journey through this so-called cancer!
It began on the morning of 15th July 2023 with acute abdominal pain. What seemed like a simple stomach infection was diagnosed as ovarian cysts on 10th August 2023. The cysts were presumed malignant. Thanks to my friend Dr. Vrushali Chaudhari, tests like sonography, CA125, CA19-9, and CT scans were done immediately. Even though the diagnosis was becoming clearer, the truth was gently shielded from me. All I was told was that I’d need surgery - and soon.
But doubts lingered.
What if…? There were so many questions - and none of the answers felt complete.
Yet somewhere inside, I knew ,I wasn’t done with life.
I had dreams to chase, moments to live, responsibilities to fulfill.
Life, in that moment, felt like a flicker of light at the end of a long tunnel.
But I couldn't give up. I prayed, I believed, and I gathered all the courage I could.
On 6th September 2023, I walked into Dr. Ambrish Chatterjee’s cabin at Apollo Hospital, Nashik, carrying my reports — and a smile.
He explained everything with clarity: the surgery, the risks, the chances of malignancy. I listened carefully and thanked him — silently praying for strength as I stepped into a new chapter.
The surgery was scheduled for 12th September 2023. It lasted 9 long hours. Bilateral ovarian cysts and three tumors — all in Stage 1C — were removed. I was told I had fought bravely — my surgeon called me a warrior.
After three days on a ventilator and in the ICU, I was moved to a room, recovering steadily. But life had more surprises.
On 20th September, Dr. Ambrish shared the full post-surgery report - confirming ovarian cancer. That day, I learned I would need six cycles of chemotherapy.
The news hit hard. My mind went blank. My heart went numb. It felt like life wasn’t done testing me just yet.
Yes, I cried - for a couple of days, but giving up was never an option.
How could I, after surviving such a major surgery? It was just four more months. It sounded short - but felt overwhelming and yet deep down, my faith held strong.
On 10th October 2023, I met Dr. Chandrashekhar Pethe at Hope-M|O|C, Nashik. He explained everything about the therapy, side effects, and expected outcomes. And once again, my faith aligned. I braced myself.
On 14th October, my first chemo session began.
It went well - and I walked back home like a warrior who had just won a battle.
Because it was a battle of the body. Of the mind. Of my faith.
It wasn't easy, the side effects, weight loss, weakness, pain, emotional ups and downs... But it was worth it.
Worth understanding life more deeply.
Worth realizing how precious each day is.
Worth learning that giving up only makes you lose yourself.
Worth discovering that we are stronger than we ever imagined.
This journey wasn’t full of joy, but I’m proud I walked it head held high & took care of my physical and mental health - and today, I stand here smiling.
My last chemo was on 29th January 2024 and here I am - a new me, filled with new hopes and a deeper appreciation for life.
I am so grateful to all those who stood by me. My friends, family, doctors, and silent supporters - my pillars of strength, those who helped me cope, lifted me when I felt low, and never let me fall apart.
A little note to you, dear reader: Life is a blessing - always.
Even when it hides behind clouds, there’s a silver lining waiting to be seen.
Keep smiling.
