- For Goda Devi, the last 2 years can be described as ‘War’.
- Treated successfully for colon cancer at Paras Hospitals, Gurgaon, after 2 years of numerous surgeries and chemotherapies, today she is finally well and healthy.
A retired Haryana Education Inspector was diagnosed with Colon Cancer in 2015, after she consulted Dr. Rajnish Monga, Sr Consultant Gastroenterology at Paras Hospitals, Gurgaon, after complaining of blood in her stool.
Goda shares, “ I started to experience constipation, bowel issues, bloating and most importantly blood in my stools. Initially, I ignored the same thinking it could just post retirement blues, but when the signs and symptoms persisted, I became anxious and decided to consult one of the best gastroenterologists in Delhi NCR – Dr. Rajnish Monga.”
Her endoscopy report was not clear and a biopsy report confirmed colon cancer. “Knowing that you have cancer changes you. It affects your body, mind and thought process. I thought that know my days are numbered and started feeling distressed until my doctors and my family pulled me up. They told me clearly – You may have cancer, but cancer will get a tough fight from all of us to have you,” shares Goda.
Post-diagnosis of cancer, Dr. Vinay Gaikwad, Consultant Surgical Oncology started to treat Goda Devi. He shares, “ Colon cancer is the 6th most prevalent cancer in India and is the third most common cancer across the world, colorectal cancer accounts for nearly 1.4 million new cases and 6,94,000 deaths per year. A personal history of colorectal polyps, cancer or inflammatory bowel disease or a family history of cancer or an unhealthy lifestyle with smoking, drinking and obesity are the common reasons for colorectal or rectum cancer. It is usually associated with blood in the stool, fatigue, constipation and in some cases even diarrhea. Research highlights that lack of regular involvement in vigorous physical activity accounts for 12-14 percent cases of colon cancer.”
In context to Goda Devi, Dr. Vinay adds, “Goda was diagnosed with malignant stage 3 colon cancer and she was recommended a combination of surgical treatment and radiation therapy. However today she is absolutely fine and leading a healthy an active life. The best aspect was the family support and motivation that she got from her family. For a cancer patient, it is exceptionally important and necessary.”
When you ask Goda Devi for the secret mantra that made her emerge as a super cancer survivor, she gushes and shares, “I may be a superwoman cancer survivor today but my cape was held by my consultant – Dr. Vinay and my family members. I owe my health and happiness to both of them.”
