Pre Diagnosis

Back in 2017 when I was in Norway for a voyage in the north pole, I suddenly had a severe headache. It was so severe that I had to be evacuated from there with the help of a helicopter. Later the doctor conducted a few tests and told me it was due to brain hemorrhage and I survived in the ICU. I came back home and underwent a few more tests. The doctor revealed that I had a small paralysis. 

Diagnosis

Post my return I started getting pain in my legs. When I visited the doctor he said its because I stopped going to the gym and I have a vitamin deficiency.

I again went for the same issue. I was also not able to eat anything due to stomach bloating. My family doctor asked me to undergo a liver test. I was also told to go for PET scan and laparoscopy. I came to know about ovarian cancer and I was in denial.  They waited for my Biopsy and then my surgery was undertaken. They removed 4 liters of fluid from my abdomen. It has been spread through the gallbladder. I then underwent 3 chemos and another major surgery which lasted for seven hours. I was in the ICU for 2-3 days.

Side Effects

I used to get so much pain in my abdomen that at times I used to scream at night. I also started having hair loss and I got myself bald. During chemotherapy, I went through a stage of self pity. I used to have a lot of fatigue and also lost stamina during the treatment. Loss of taste was another side effect that I had during the treatment due to which at times I did not feel like eating anything. 

What kept me going

The thing that kept me going was my love for travel and my friends. I wanted to travel more. I used to tell myself one more day- one more day and you can meet your friends. My friends were always there for me.

What is needed during this situation?

During the whole treatment I pushed myself to the extent that I had to take care of myself. I had to cook and do all the things by myself. I believe the most important thing needed during the treatment is emotional support.When you are emotionally supported you feel a sense of belief and things get lighter. People should also have a lot of protein intake.

Message for For patient

I would like to say that we all are very strong.  We should depend on ourselves and it's okay to cry at times. But make sure you tell yourself that you can overcome the situation. Also, you must keep on checking the symptoms and I'll suggest you all to go for regular checkups even if you feel everything is going fine.

And remember that each cancer patient is an inspiration to others and you are a survivor and warrior. Believe why you want to live. I lost my job. But you should be mentally strong to face anything. Also, Please keep on checking the symptoms. It's better to go for regular checkups. It will be tough but you will be fine.

Message for caregiver

One important message to all the caregivers is that they should understand what the patient is going through. Also more than anything you must support the patient emotionally and give them mental and emotional support.