Dilip Kumar Kanjilal, 77 from Kolkata has fought cancer of the Vocal Chords and emerged a winner. He looks back to recall his struggle which has also reiterated his faith in life.
Professionally, I used to be a driver of the long-distance state bus for 30 years. I had the responsibility to take the passengers to their destinations safely and I was good at it. Likewise, when I was attacked by the big C-Cancer, I was not engulfed by fear, tension, agony. I faced it bravely like a warrior.
What is your condition now?
I am well now.
When were you diagnosed?
22/04/2017
What was the biopsy report?
Well differentiated infiltrating squamous cell carcinoma. It was early stage, 1st stage.
What were the early symptoms?
One day I observed and felt that my voice had become hoarse.Gradually my sound became feeble and within 15 days the voice was choked. I couldn't speak.
What was your first reaction to the news?
There was no negative feeling. I had and still have confidence. I also felt partly responsible for it having been a heavy smoker.
What is your present condition?
My voice is regained but I still sound a bit husky.
Please describe your experience of managing cancer.
When the ENT doctors of ESI hospital, Kamarhati, referred my case to Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre and Research Institute, Thakurpukur, Kolkata for treatment, I felt renewed faith in medicines. After a thorough investigation, the oncologists Dr Dhrubojyoti Mukhopadhaya and Dr Bhudeb Bhattacharya assured me of a curable treatment. The doctors advised no chemotherapy, no operation, only to undergo radiation.I was admitted to the hospital for 35 radiation sessions in 7weeks.I realized that I was not alone. I was under 24 hours supervision of the doctors who seemed like Angels to me.
Any related complications?
During radiation, I developed an apathy towards food. But the doctors andnurses ably tackled the issue.
What medication are you on now?
Medication stopped in the last six months and now I am free to enjoy life.
Were there any side effects?
No definite side effects emerged.
At present are you only on check up and whom do you consult and how often?
Yes, I go for check up once in 3 months to Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre and I come back a happy person as the reports are OK. I am now a frequent visitor to Eastern India Palliative Care, Barrackpore, for any consultation with Dr Subhodeep Bannerji, oncologist, although no palliative care treatment is needed for me.I love to visit the free clinic and to observe and listen to the counselling sessions and to also follow how the patients react.
What were some of the challenges you faced and what is your advice to patients who face similar challenges?
I accepted the reality and believed that I would win the battle. I gave up my long habit of smoking. I advise patients to keep themselves away from smoking, to lead a disciplined life, to have strong determination and mental power to face any disease.
Read: Tips on Quitting Smoking
Have you learnt anything in managing in your condition that you wished you knew before?
Yes I have learnt one important thing that awareness programme is a prime need of the society. I perhaps could have avoided being a cancer patient if I had known earlier of some tips to stay healthy.
Read: How I Finally Quit Smoking
Have you had to make some changes to your lifestyle because of your condition?
- Now I don't indulge my every whim.
- I stopped smoking.
- I avoid getting wet in the rain because I cannot stop sneezing when I get wet.
Have you tried complementary therapies to cope with your condition?
I practise yoga daily which is useful.
Has it been difficult emotionally to cope with your condition?
I didn't give in to negative feelings.
How has your family and friends supported you?
I received full support from my family members. I didn't feel any isolation from my friends as well. Rather my friends inspired me and drew me close to them.
Did you see a counsellor for support? Were you offered counselling by doctors?
No special counsellor, only doctors in the hospital advised me not to be worried.
What was the hardest part of the treatment? What kept you going? How has this changed your life perspectives and ambition?
Initial 7 weeks stay in the hospital was not so tough as other patients became friends. When my son left the fabulous government job for me, I applied my will power to get well soon, with the cooperation of the doctors, of course, so that my son can be professionally settled.
Cancer has brought in changes in my lifestyle. I now realize the value of life. I am now happy with my family members specially my grandson.
(As told to Mr Pranab Kumar Basu, retd Asst. Headmaster and currently voluntary counsellor to cancer patients at Eastern India Palliative Care, Barrackpore, West Bengal)
