Self-confidence and timely treatment are necessary to overcome cancer

LONDON:- At an awareness event held in London, a message was conveyed that it is possible to overcome cancer by seeking timely treatment, maintaining a positive mindset, and garnering support from family and society—rather than succumbing to despair following a diagnosis. Emphasizing the need to shift the perspective that views cancer solely as the end of life, women who have successfully battled the disease shared their personal journeys, experiences with treatment, and their return to a normal life.

At the ‘Pink October Breast Cancer Awareness’ event held on Saturday—chaired by London-based businessman and philanthropist Rabindra Jung Lamichhane—participating women shared that, alongside timely medical treatment, self-confidence, familial love, and social support make it easier to navigate difficult circumstances. The event was organized by ‘The Lamichhane Foundation.’

‘Pink October,’ observed worldwide every October, is an international campaign aimed at raising public awareness about breast cancer, encouraging timely detection, and disseminating information regarding the importance of treatment and research.

Sharing her experience at the event, Susmita Yakso Kandangwa stated that she had overcome breast cancer after 14 months of treatment and returned to a normal life. She noted that regular medication under medical supervision, physical exercise, a positive mindset, and the support of family and friends helped her navigate that difficult period.

She urged people not to become despondent and confine themselves to their homes upon hearing a cancer diagnosis; instead, she encouraged them to accept their situation, speak openly about it, and help raise awareness among others. She emphasized that, rather than hiding the illness or living in fear, it is crucial to seek the necessary treatment and maintain one’s morale.

Another cancer survivor, Christina, shared her experiences of facing breast cancer. She noted that the diagnosis was emotionally difficult, especially when thinking of her children, but explained that her own inner strength and the love of her family helped her keep moving forward. She shared that receiving support from both her family and her workplace made it easier to cope with the challenges of her treatment.

Foundation Secretary General and Trustee Laxmi (Lara) Rai shared that she was diagnosed with breast cancer last April and is currently undergoing treatment. She mentioned that, while taking necessary precautions during her treatment, she has continued with her regular work, taken vacations, and remained active in social engagements.

Recalling how hundreds of people from both within the country and abroad sent well-wishes for her recovery after she openly shared details about her illness on social media, she noted that the love and encouragement she received further strengthened her confidence in the treatment.

“Instead of keeping this illness hidden, I felt it was necessary to raise awareness among others, which is why I shared my situation on social media. I have received so much love and support. This encouragement has bolstered my belief that I can defeat cancer,” she said.

The event’s chief guest, Rupa Huq—Member of Parliament for Ealing Central and Acton—urged people not to hide health-related issues and to prioritize regular health check-ups. She emphasized the importance of contacting a General Practitioner (GP) immediately if one notices any unusual changes or discomfort in their body.

Praising the contributions made by the Nepali community in the UK, she pledged to take initiative to provide support whenever community members face difficulties. She also remarked that the program organized by the foundation to raise awareness about cancer was commendable.

British Member of Parliament and former minister Keith Vaz, who attended as a special guest, urged that such events be organized on a regular basis. Highlighting the contributions made by businessman Lamichhane toward strengthening the relationship between the UK and Nepal, he noted the significant role played by entrepreneurs of South Asian origin in the British economy. He also praised Lamichhane, referring to him as a “star of Kathmandu.”

In the program conducted by Trustee Lara Rai, Rasmita Darlami (President of the Nepalese Nursing Association UK), Babita Lama (General Manager of Copeland Cares), Shanti Rai (of Creatives for Culture), Hari Bhandari (of The Gurkha Centre), and Mala Gurung (of Maya Outreach Cancer Support) provided information about the activities their respective organizations are undertaking in the areas of cancer awareness and support.

They praised the Foundation’s initiative, noting that community-level awareness, collaboration, and emotional support are essential for assisting individuals affected by cancer and their families.

Businessman Mahanta Shrestha ‘OBE’ also thanked the Foundation for organizing an awareness program on a timely issue related to public health.

Lamichhane, who chaired the event, expressed his gratitude to all the lawmakers, guests, participants, and supporters present. He remarked that such social initiatives have provided him with further inspiration to remain actively involved in social service in the days ahead.

During the event, the Foundation presented tokens of appreciation to the guests and to women who have successfully overcome cancer.

Previously, the Foundation provided approximately 10.7 million rupees in aid to those affected by the floods in the Bhote Koshi region. The organization has consistently continued its efforts to engage with the community through public health awareness initiatives and the provision of humanitarian assistance during times of disaster.