Mumbai, 22th July’24: Cancer’s impact is deep and extensive. Yet, in the darkest times, the human spirit finds a way to lighten the path to recovery. Among the various forms of this deceptive illness, bone cancer stands very challenging. It attacks at the very core of human structure, attempting to weaken the foundation of human beings. The battle against bone cancer is a testimony to the human condition, characterized by a persistent quest for health and normalcy in the face of difficulty. Today, Medica Superspecialty Hospital hosted an inspiring ‘Ortho Onco Champions Meet’ with the tagline – “Don’t give up my friend”, to celebrate resilience and hope. This meeting brought together both the bone cancer survivors and their caregivers. The event’s guest of honour was Mr. Nicolas Facino, Executive Director Alliance française du Bengale, other than him, the gathering witnessed the gracious presence of Mr. Partha Sarkar, Chairman, Cancer Awareness and Prevention Committee, Rotary International, District 3291; Swami Suparnananda, Secretary, RKM Institute of Culture, Goplark; Shri Shakti Prasad Mishra, Nivedita Chair, Centre for Indological Studies and Research, RMIC, Golpark; Swami Dheyananda, Principal, RKM Shilpapitha Engineering College and Dr. Kousik Nandy, Consultant – Surgical Oncology (Musculoskeletal), Medica Superspecialty Hospital.

Recent statistics from the Indian Cancer Society indicates that about 4,000 new instances of bone cancer are identified in India alone each year. Globally, bone cancer represents around 5% of all cancer cases. To build a community where survivors can gain mental strength from each other’s experiences and encourage one another on their continuing journeys. Medica wanted to establish a supportive network for patients with bone cancer through this Ortho Onco Survivors Meet.

Dr. Kousik Nandy, shared, “Bone cancer is challenging and often misunderstood by the general public as Bone cancer is uncommon, with various types occurring across different age groups, some predominantly affect children, while others are more prevalent in adults. Each case is unique and demands personalized care. At our hospital, we specialize in advanced treatments such as limb recovery surgeries, which aim to restore both function and quality of life. Today, we have been inspired by stories that instil hope and reassure cancer patients that life can return to normal. Our dedicated team put forth endless effort to ensure every patient receives the best care possible. With early diagnosis and intervention, bone cancer can be effectively managed, offering patients a hopeful and positive outlook for the future.”

In the meet, Tanmoy Sarkar, a 21-year-old male, shared, “I was diagnosed with a type of bone cancer called chondrosarcoma (a rare type of bone cancer that occurs in the soft tissue near bones) in my right upper arm four years ago. The doctors suggested a limb salvage surgery, where they would save my arm instead of amputating it. They used a part of my bone, which they had frozen to kill the cancer cells, and then put it back in my arm to reconstruct it. After the surgery, I have been cancer-free for the past four years and have returned to my normal daily activities. I will be forever grateful to Medica Superspecialty Hospital for giving me a new life.”

Monimala Mondal, a 22- year-old lady, shared her story. She said, “In the year 2017, I was diagnosed with bone cancer in my knee joint, I was shattered and lost my hope, within a few months, I went through a limb recovery surgery here. Now, I have recovered fully and back to my normal life. I am grateful to all the doctors here. They are the ones for whom I got a new lease of life and preparing for competitive exams.”

Soumita Halder shared her journey saying, “When I was 12 years old in 2005, I was detected with bone cancer. I had gone through surgery to save my limb in a different hospital. In 2018, I came to Medica Superspecialty Hospital because the implant used in my arm had failed, leaving my arm weak and unusable. Thankfully, I was cancer-free at that time, and they were able to reconstruct my limb. This allowed me to get back to my studies and personal life. Recently, I had a final surgery using a technique called microvascular surgery, performed by specialists in bone cancer and plastic surgery. This surgery was the last step in rebuilding my arm. Now, I can move around and start my rehabilitation to return to my normal daily activities.”

Through the inspiring stories from the champions, the gathering celebrated journey of survival, renewal, and the profound impact of compassionate healthcare. As Medica continues to lead in oncological care, their efforts offer not just treatment, but a promise of restored lives and renewed hope for the future.