Shila, India
Dark to Light
"Life is too short to be little." - Benjamin Disraeli
And in this short life, one day, you suddenly hear from a doctor that you might have cancer. I think this is like a bolt from the blue—utterly shocking.
This was exactly what I experienced. My family and I were overwhelmed. Fear, anxiety, thoughts about financial concerns, and, of course, the fear for my family and myself—all of it consumed us.
The Beginning of My Journey
I live in Kolkata. In December 2019, I started experiencing persistent indigestion, bloating, and constant uneasiness in my digestive system. Concerned, we decided to consult a local doctor. He advised an ultrasound. The report revealed a large tumor in my reproductive organ.
At that time, my son was living and working in Bangalore. Like many others, we believed Bangalore offered better medical facilities, so we decided to go there for further consultations and treatment. As per our plan, we consulted doctors, and after a series of examinations, they informed us that the tumor might be cancerous.
Hearing this was not just shocking—it was devastating. My family and I were filled with uncertainty. The fear of an unknown future, the agony of dealing with cancer, and the financial burden ahead weighed heavily on us.
A Change in Plans: Returning Home
Despite everything, we decided to return to Kolkata. We felt that whatever awaited us—the uncertainty, the suffering, the tremendous expenses—we would handle it in our own hometown, where we had the support of loved ones.
One of our friends suggested we visit a gynecologist at R. N. Tagore Hospital. The doctor there referred us to Dr. Kaustav Basu, an oncologist specializing in gynecological cancers at Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Andul Road, Howrah.
Meeting Dr. Kaustav Basu
From the moment we met Dr. Basu, we knew we were in safe hands. He examined my reports, conducted further tests, and advised immediate hospitalization. The fear of an uncertain future and all my negative thoughts slowly began to fade under his guidance.
With a desperate yet fearless mindset, I told myself—whatever happens, I will face it.
Dr. Basu and his team performed a long and complex surgery, successfully removing the tumor. Post-surgery, it was confirmed that I had carcinoma of the ovary. But within just three days, I was discharged from the hospital.
Facing cancer teaches us not only the importance of courage but also the necessity of trusting our doctors. It is in these pivotal moments that the partnership between courage and trust in our doctors truly shines.
Post-Recovery and Life Today
After the surgery, I had to undergo regular monitoring because of cancer's recurring nature. Initially, I had blood tests every three months, then every six months, to ensure that the disease did not return.
Now, in 2025, I am completely cancer-free. I have been relieved of that dark phase of my life.
Beyond the Diagnosis: Personal Growth
This experience helped me in ways I never imagined. It pushed me far beyond my comfort zone and helped me discover my inner strength. It made me see life with a new perspective and fall in love with my life in a way I never did before.
My Gratitude
My family and I will be forever grateful to Dr. Basu and his team.
I have never met a doctor like him—both an extraordinary physician and a remarkable human being. I think such a combination is rare.
Not only was his advanced treatment remarkable, but even the way he counseled his patients was priceless.
Thank you so much, Dr. Basu and your entire team.
Thank you, Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Andul Road, Howrah.