Nupur P, India

February 4th is World Cancer Day, a day that reminds a lot to me. This year’s theme, "United by Unique," really speaks to my heart because every cancer journey is different, yet we all share the same fight. I want to share my story—not just as a survivor, but as someone who saw cancer affect everyone around me, especially my parents.

In 2018, when I was looking ahead to my future, I first noticed a swollen lymph node on my neck. We didn’t ignore it; we immediately consulted a doctor. At first, it was misdiagnosed as tuberculosis, and I was put on TB medication. But as time passed, I developed a persistent fever that refused to subside. Further tests led to a biopsy, and that was when I received the diagnosis: Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Just as we were preparing for treatment, things took a drastic turn. I developed jaundice, with my bilirubin levels soaring to 32. My RBC, platelets, and plasma levels dropped really low. There was little hope of survival, and every passing moment felt like a battle I was destined to lose. But then, just like that, a miracle happened. Against all odds, I made it through. The doctors, my parents, and an inexplicable force of resilience pulled me back from the ashes...

With my health stabilizing, I started chemotherapy—12 cycles in total. The first few sessions weren’t as bad, but as the treatment progressed, the side effects became unbearable. Nausea, hair loss, constant weakness—I felt like I was losing myself. But the hardest part wasn’t just the treatments—it was seeing what my parents went through. The financial struggles, the sleepless nights, the way they tried to stay strong for me even when I knew they were breaking inside.

At one point, I told my dad to stop hoping. I thought it was pointless. But he never gave up on me. He believed in my recovery even when I couldn’t. With the best doctors and his determination, I made it through. The final round of chemotherapy felt like an eternity, but when it was over, I took my first deep breath as someone who had fought and survived. And now, in 2025, it has been five years since my last chemotherapy, and every PET-CT scan since then has come out clear.

Cancer doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it affects their whole world. It’s a test of strength, patience, and love. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that hope matters. To anyone still fighting, I want you to know that even when it feels impossible, there is a way forward. To caregivers, your love and support mean everything. And to fellow survivors, every day is proof that we made it through.

This World Cancer Day, let’s keep spreading awareness, supporting research, and most of all, holding onto hope. Our journeys may be different, but we’re all in this together. I stand here today, healthy and grateful, as living proof that miracles do happen.