Panchkula hospital invites women to share stories of resilience

To mark International Women’s Day, Paras Health, Panchkula, recently launched the ‘#ProudWomenOfTricity’ campaign, inviting women to share personal stories under the theme “The moment I chose myself”. As part of the programme, MS Sharda Kataria, president of the Panchkula Women’s Club, volunteered to share her personal journey.

She recalled the challenges she faced after the death of her husband in 2013, noting that she initially had little knowledge of banking work as her husband, a banker, had managed financial matters.

Kataria said she gradually learned to handle such responsibilities independently after facing difficulties at the bank, adding that women needed supportive spaces where they could openly share their experiences and learn from each other.

The campaign was inaugurated by Seema Chaudhary, former Mayor of Panchkula.

Sharing her experience, she spoke about entering politics despite social expectations confining women to domestic roles. Guests of honour included Ekta S Chaudhary, chairperson of the Venus Foundation Trust, Dr Kanupriya, and Dr Shivani Guleria.

Dr Pankaj Mittal, facility director, Paras Health, said the initiative aimed to create a platform where women could reflect on the defining moments when they chose their well-being, voice or aspirations.

Several women shared their experiences during the programme. Interactive activities, including a memory game, were organised for participants.