Family’s strength in the face of cancer

On World Cancer Day, Capt IS Dhami (63), retired Deputy Director of Youth Services, Punjab, and former Secretary of Virsa Vihar, Jalandhar, reflects on how the unwavering support of his family played a crucial role during his fight against blood cancer:

In 2009, my life changed forever when I was diagnosed with blood cancer. The news was devastating, filling me with fear, uncertainty, and unimaginable challenges. However, what truly broke me was not just my own suffering, but seeing my family endure the hardships of keeping me alive.

My treatment was provided at DMCH Ludhiana, with support from Rajiv Gandhi Medical College and the Marrow Institute in the US, under the guidance of my brother, Dr G S Dhami. The financial burden of my treatment was overwhelming—reaching Rs 10 lakh—especially since I didn’t have health insurance. This burden fell entirely on my family, who sacrificed their own comfort and stability to ensure I received the best care possible.

The treatment itself was gruelling. The heavy steroid doses caused my sugar levels to spike to 625 mg/dl, requiring immediate intervention. I lost 20 kg and my TLC count plummeted. Eighteen rounds of chemotherapy drained me, and the sessions of radiation added to my suffering. Looking back, I realise that my survival wasn’t just due to the medical treatment I received, but to the love, sacrifices, and strength of my family.

(As told to Deepkamal)