Bhubaneswar: Only four year back, Manoj Kumar Mahapatra was contemplating suicide. After months of trying allopathy, homeopathy and even Ayurvedic medicines, the doctor confirmed his worst fear – he had prostate cancer.
“My father had died of cancer in 2008. When I was also diagnosed with it, I thought I would die as well. I had to take care of my mother, wife and two children, but we didn’t have enough money. In fact, there was no money for my treatment. That is when I thought of ending my life,” said Manoj, almost choking.
When all his hopes were drying up, his consulting doctor gave him the contact number of ‘Umeedein,’ an NGO, which conducts cancer awareness programmes all over the state and also facilitates treatment for the underprivileged cancer patients.
“I met them and they informed me about several initiatives with which I can avail treatment with almost no money. I went through one year of chemotherapy and now I am fully fit. For me, these people are god,” he added.
On Sunday, cancer survivors like Manoj walked the ramp, exemplifying confidence as they celebrated life. The initiative was organised by the NGO started by group of youngsters, mostly software engineers.
“The number of cancer deaths in our country is very high, but unfortunately a lot of people are not aware about the stages and treatment methods. Most of them even are of the impression that the treatment is very expensive. We started this NGO to act as facilitators between cancer patients and the doctors,” said a volunteer, who wished to be recognised as part of ‘Team Ummedein.’
Besides walking the ramp with celebrities, the cancer survivors spent the evening dancing and singing.
“It is an honour to be a part of the evening. I feel truly humbled in the midst of these fighters today,” said Mihir Das, who was the star attraction at the event.
Several doctors, celebrities and fighters also formed a human chain, saying it loud and clear ‘Let’s dare to fight cancer’.
