After defeating cancer twice, Dr Gupta now helps others

Manav Mander
Tribune News Service
Ludhiana, February 4

After defeating cancer twice, city-based Dr Surinder Gupta is now helping others in alleviating their suffering. He had launched a helpline, “I can guide”, to help the patients across the country to take the next step after cancer diagnosis. On World Cancer Day today, we met Dr Gupta at Kamla Lohtia SD College where he was delivering a lecture on cancer awareness.

“Even more than treatment, what is important after one is diagnosed with cancer is taking the ‘next step’. Some people baffle after being diagnosed with cancer but what is more important is taking a step towards the right direction. This is where I help the patients who ask help from me on my helpline. I consult various oncologists and then choose the right path and treatment for the patients and they follow the same in their respective cities,” said Dr Gupta.

A family physician since 1979, Dr Gupta said in 2010 he was diagnosed with urinary bladder cancer. “I got it operated immediately and when I went for a check-up after a month, four more small tumours were noticed. Now, I am getting my biopsy done after every three months,” he said.

Dr Gupta said in 2013, he was diagnosed with tongue cancer. It has been cured since it was localised cancer. For prostate cancer, I am still going for check-up after every three months. “Family strength and family support are vital elements for a successful treatment,” he said.

Helpline number

• Dr Gupta’s “I Can Guide” helpline number is 94175 20783 and any cancer patient can seek free consultation from him