Young Cancer Survivor Returns Home to Spread Message of Courage and Belief

Bhopal: – September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. A time to create awareness that Childhood Cancer is Curable with very high survival rates and to honour the bravery and courage of children fighting cancer, 19year old, Atul Rathod from Madhya Pradesh, a childhood cancer survivor leads a team of 10 cancer survivors to Bhopal to spread the Message of Courage and Belief.

Atul was just 3 years old when he was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, (Eye Cancer). His mother was devastated, but she didn’t give up hope. She took him to the best doctors and hospital and Atul underwent several surgeries and chemotherapy sessions. It was a tough blow for Atul and his mother, but they didn’t let it break them. He started writing poetry to express his feelings, and soon discovered that he had a talent for it. He also started doing stand-up comedy, which helped him cope with the pain and stress of his treatment. At the age of 18, Atul left his mother and his home to become a survival leader.  Today, Atul is 18 years old and leading the young survivor in his own state.

Now, under the survivor group of Cankids ‘KidsCan Konnect’, Atul has led the group of young cancer survivors to ignite hope and inspire belief in the hearts of people across Bhopal. They have embarked on a courageous journey, traveling to numerous districts in the region including Raisen, Sanchi, Vidisha and covered many Hospitals and Medical College via their Story sharing.

These resilient young warriors are extending a hand of support, meeting with cancer patients and their families, and sharing their stories of triumph to demonstrate that childhood cancer is indeed curable.

While speaking to local people Atul said “He is a cancer survivor, and wants to inspire others who are going through similar struggles. He has been an active KCK group member since 2016 and connected with CK from the year 2008 (during his treatment). His story is a reminder that no matter how tough life gets, we can always find a way to overcome our challenges with determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, we can achieve our dreams. We are here to help and Cankids Kidscan has the dedicated State helpline number 8370001226 for Madhya Pradesh, where any childhood cancer query can be raised.”

Childhood cancer is a battle that affects countless families, causing emotional and physical turmoil. However, the group of young cancer survivors leading this initiative is living proof that victory is possible. Through their journey across Madhya Pradesh, they aim to not only entertain and uplift spirits but also to instil a profound belief that cancer can be overcome.