By Dr. Priti Mehta Senior Consultant – Paediatric Oncology, Haemato-Oncology & BMT at SRCC Children’s Hospital, Managed by Narayana Health, Haji Ali, Mumbai,
Cancer is a word. It makes families worried and unsure. Every year National Cancer Survivor Day reminds us that there are stories of brave people who fight and win. As a doctor who helps kids with cancer, I have seen brave battles. Some stories stay with me. Inspire me.
One such story is about Haadi Ansari, a boy who is very brave.
When Haadi was 14 years old, he started having nosebleeds and spitting up blood. His parents took him to the doctor. The tests showed that he had acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a type of blood cancer.Haadi and his family were shocked. They did not know what to expect. They were determined to fight. Haadi had chemotherapy, and it was tough on him. He did not give up. He finished his treatment. Everyone thought he was going to be okay.
Three months later, Haadis’s cancer came back. It was a setback. He had to do chemotherapy and get a bone marrow transplant. It was a hard journey. Haadi did not give up. He kept fighting.Today Haadi is doing great. He is 17 years old. He is back to his normal life. He even finished his 10th-grade exam this Year with 62%. He is a survivor. His story gives hope to others.
Haadis’s story is special because it shows that cancer can be beaten. He says, “Don’t be scared. Go to the doctor early trust them and keep fighting.” His words are true. We see it every day in the hospital. Hope is a medicine. Every survivor’s story reminds us that cancer is not a disease; it’s a challenge that can be overcome.On this National Cancer Survivor Day we celebrate all survivors who fought and won. We thank families who support their loved ones. We appreciate doctors who help patients. We tell patients who are still fighting that they are not alone.
Cancer changes life. It does not define the future. Haadis’s story shows that when things seem bad, hope can win.Dr. Priti’s message to patients, survivors and families is simple: Don’t lose hope. Stay strong. Keep fighting. With help and determination, cancer can be beaten.
Every survivor’s story gives hope to someone who is still fighting.
