Finding Highs in the Lows
Jatin Goyal reflects on his cancer experience as a young child in Delhi.
In a small village in Rajasthan, India, my family lived happily in a simple home. Life was good until I was four, when we decided to move to Delhi for a fresh start in the big city. Excitement filled our hearts, but fate had other plans.
A few months after arriving in Delhi, my world turned upside down. At such a tender age, I couldn’t comprehend the gravity of my diagnosis: cancer. Fear gripped my family, and I was rushed to the hospital, where I embarked on a grueling journey of surgeries and chemotherapy. It was a tough road, but my determination to fight never wavered.
I recall those dark days when I felt so feeble that getting out of bed seemed impossible. I remember moments when sickness consumed me, and I feared for my life. Yet, amidst these struggles, there were bright moments when I could play with my friends.
The nurse’s arrival with chemotherapy used to send me into fits of screams. I watched as my body changed, becoming heavier than those of my peers. But deep down, I knew I had to persist, not just for my family but for my own sake.
After a long and arduous battle, I finally received the wonderful news of being cancer-free. Joy surged through me, and I felt invincible. I returned to school, formed new friendships, and even resumed playing sports.
Though I remained an average student academically, I became a cherished pupil among my teachers. I always completed my work punctually, with perfect attendance. These educators provided the unwavering support I needed to overcome my challenges.
My educational journey led me through CBSE, where I completed my 10th, 11th, and 12th grades, ultimately graduating from the School of Open Learning in 2019. Regular checkups continued to be a part of my life, as well as involvement with organizations like Zen Onco, Purple Ribbon, and You We Can.
I hold immense gratitude for the medical professionals who cared for me, my family and friends who stood by me, and the organizations that helped me stay positive and embrace life fully. In particular, I owe a debt of thanks to Dr. Gauri, my oncologist at RGCI, whose kindness and unwavering support infused me with the hope I needed to persevere. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
To all who have read my story, I hope it serves as an inspiration for those facing cancer. Never lose hope and always fight for your life. Remember, you are not alone; there are people who care about you and are ready to help.
Whether you are a patient, survivor, caregiver, or loved one touched by cancer, your story can have an enormous impact. You can provide hope and inspiration to someone recently diagnosed with cancer or a patient undergoing therapy.
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