Anirudh Jamadagni (ALL): Against All Odds

A software techie based in Bangalore, Anirudh was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, Type 2 Cancer, Stage 3. He went through ragging throughout his childhood and developed learning disabilities due to the side effects of cancer treatment. As if untouchability in his extended family wasn't harrowing enough, even his married life was affected, and his wife filed for divorce. But thanks to his loving family, he conquered all odds and emerged victorious.

Diagnosis:

On 5th March 1995, he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Type 2, Stage 3. Among 40 kids admitted, he had only a meagre chance of survival.

Treatment:

Anirudh underwent 32 chemo cycles, 48 bone marrow procedures, and 42 radiation cycles. Observation, Maintenance, and Relapse are three stages of cancer treatment. 

Bone Marrow procedures were tough and painful for Anirudh. Some injections put through the veins literally burnt his nervous junctions. One particular tablet led to the growth of thorn-like growths in his throat.

Family Support:

His father wasn't mentally strong enough to see his son going through all the physical pain but his mother was with him day and night. His teachers, parents, and friends supported him very well. There was a taboo in his family, and he was treated as an untouchable in his extended family.

Side Effects:

Anirudh lost hair and his eardrums were affected. He underwent major surgery to restore his hearing. He struggled academically, developing a learning disability and dyslexia as the radiation affected his learning abilities. His immunity had gone to an all-time low and his body began to emit an odor. He frequently suffered from colds and fevers. As if that wasn't enough, he developed a calcium deficiency and suffered three to four fractures.