In a bold step toward challenging the stigma surrounding cancer and fostering a sense of hope, the Cancer Care and Cure Society of Bengal hosted an impactful awareness session at Kalamandir. The event underscored a powerful message: cancer is no longer a death sentence, and many patients today are successfully overcoming the disease, returning to healthy and fulfilling lives.
The medical community’s central theme, “Cancer is not the end – it can be cured, and life can return to normal,” resonated deeply, offering a message of resilience and optimism for all those affected by cancer.
The evening commenced with a thought-provoking panel discussion led by distinguished doctors, who offered valuable insights into the latest innovations in cancer treatment, survival, and the transition back to everyday life after treatment. The program continued with poignant testimonies from cancer survivors, whose moving personal stories of resilience and hope highlighted the extraordinary strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity. Their powerful accounts served as a testament to the unwavering courage and determination that inspire others facing similar battles.
“Cancer no longer defines the end of a story—it can mark the beginning of a new chapter. With early detection and evolving treatments, we are not just extending lives—we are restoring hope, dignity, and the simple joy of living without the shadow of fear.” said senior surgical oncologist, Dr. Gautam Mukhopadhyay.
“This event is about visibility,” added radiation oncologist, Dr. Sayan Paul. “When people see survivors telling their stories, it reinforces the fact that cancer can be fought – and won.”
Dr. Tanmay Mandal (medical oncologist) emphasized, “Community support is essential. We want to create a safe space where patients and their families feel they are not alone.”
“Raising awareness is our biggest tool in changing perceptions,” said Dr. Soumen Das (cancer surgeon). “And through events like this, we can show that cancer care is evolving – and so are the lives of those who go through it.”
To conclude the evening on a celebratory note, the audience were treated to a soulful performance by the acclaimed musical duo Sourendro – Soumyojit, whose music uplifted and unified attendees in a shared sense of hope and community.
A large number of cancer patients and their families attended the event, making it not only a night of awareness but also a community gathering of support, solidarity, and healing. Their performance on the same stage as the celebrity singers accentuated the overall appeal of the program.
While talking about her journey, cancer survivor Gayatri Chatterjee said, “Cancer is not the end—it’s a challenge to be faced with knowledge, courage, and unwavering determination. I am not just a survivor; I am proof that hope heals.”
Cancer survivor Pradipta Ghosh also added, “I was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer in 2011 and
underwent surgery in 2012. Since then, I’ve lived a full life riding my motorcycle, meeting friends, and for over a decade, visiting the homes of people battling cancer to spread awareness and positivity. Cancer is curable, and there’s nothing to fear when faced with it.”
Additionally, the Institute of Breast Disease, Kolkata, has officially launched ‘Jiboner Sathi’, India’s first structured Cancer Navigator Program, marking a groundbreaking advancement in patient-centered cancer care. This pioneering socio-academic initiative aims to transform cancer survivors into trained Level 1 Navigators who can provide emotional, informational, and practical support to new patients navigating their cancer journey. Initially focused on breast cancer, ‘Jiboner Sathi’ empowers treated patients with specialized training in communication and guidance, enabling them to serve as compassionate companions and credible resources for those newly diagnosed. This program represents a significant step toward humanizing healthcare and strengthening survivorship care through community-led support.
“This program is about creating a community of healing through shared experiences,” said Dr. Tanmoy Mondal and Dr. Soumen Das, Directors at the Institute of Breast Disease. “Our goal is to ensure that no patient feels alone in their cancer journey.”
Volunteers who have completed their cancer treatment and are willing to support others are invited to apply. The application form is available at the Institute’s website or may be collected from the Institute directly.
