.....continued from earlier post.
Fitness and suitability tests before taking
Chemotherapy modality of treatment.
We had some laughter, chatter and banter followed by
food before readying for the marathon of taking six
Chemo cycles.
My only concern at this stage was that my body must
respond favorably to the first Chemotherapy cycle. I had come
to know that Chemotherapy usually produces severe side effects.
They could even be devastating to a majority of cancer patients.
But, as a short term measure, it is known to attack cancerous
cells, and possibly bring about prognosis and alleviation in
the disease. It is well known that conventional or mainstream
medicine and drugs invariably produce side effects or reactions.
In other words, if they do not produce any side effects, then
they would not be effective at all or doing anything.
By the way, out of deriving some sort of emotional
satisfaction, I thought of meeting as many close relatives and
friends before the start of my Chemotherapy cycles.
Among my several close friends in Bangalore was J.S. Pant, since 30 years,a lawyer and former colleague of mine on the Board of Star Czapter Volkmann Ltd., a German Collaboration Co., manufacturing textile achinery at Dharwad, where I had moved to. When I went to see im in his office at Seshadripuram accompanied by Vijay and Raju, he told that I looked like a fit and fighting soldier, little knowing that beneath my calm and composed exterior, I was hosting the dreaded cancer. After initial pleasantries,
I told him I had Cancer non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Stage III A’. Initially, he was taken aback,but accepting the reality said it is treatable and manageable. Trying to rop me up, he told me not to get unduly worried and perturbed, as he new I was a strong willed person.
In the morning, both Vijay and Raju were ready for accompanying me to the HCG. On reaching HCG by 8 am, we were directed to go first to the Registration Counter. As we entered the Hospital in Tower 1, we saw the waiting hall on the left side, where all cancer patients and accompanying relatives or family friends with prior appointments, had assembled.
There were about 15 to 20 patients with worried and forlorn looks writ large on their faces, and most of them having lost hair on their scalps. The patients were waiting for their turn, and perhaps carrying with them the virtual RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) rail ticket to unknown destination. I was somewhat perturbed at this awful sight. At once, I felt and decided that I would not like to be part of such motley crowd of cancer patients, with grim and horrible faces or expressions. I didn’t want to join this gathering of wonderful cancer patients, come what may.
Among my several close friends in Bangalore was J.S. Pant, since 30 years,a lawyer and former colleague of mine on the Board of Star Czapter Volkmann Ltd., a German Collaboration Co., manufacturing textile achinery at Dharwad, where I had moved to. When I went to see im in his office at Seshadripuram accompanied by Vijay and Raju, he told that I looked like a fit and fighting soldier, little knowing that beneath my calm and composed exterior, I was hosting the dreaded cancer. After initial pleasantries,
I told him I had Cancer non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Stage III A’. Initially, he was taken aback,but accepting the reality said it is treatable and manageable. Trying to rop me up, he told me not to get unduly worried and perturbed, as he new I was a strong willed person.
Further, he said that he had seen in the firm
determination and grit to fight and overcome such setbacks. Guiding
and advising me to read some of the best, inspiring
and transformational books or material by cancer survivors, he gave
me a small book titled “The Joy of Cancer” written by Anup Kumar, a
corporate communications executive. He suggested that I read it, and
assured it will help me in facing cancer confidently and bravely.
After an hour or so, we left the place carrying best wishes for speedy
recovery from Pant, and started driving back home to Adarsh Vista.
By the time I reached home the messages from several relatives
and in-laws awaiting us.
They were on their way to see me to wish well
and fast recovery, apart from having one last meeting with me.
They all knew I had cancer, and hence the need for telling that I was
in Bangalore for treatment did not arise. Each one suggested different
ways to derive strength to face the cancer battle and challenge. Nanda,
my sister-in-law, Nalu’s immediate sister; Ramesh, my co-brother and
Sudha, my youngest sister-in-law were all there remaining silent, without
knowing what to say.
All of them had the same question of what will
happen to me next; and whether this would be one of our last meetings.
All of them bade us farewell, and left quietly one by one. We, thereafter,
went to our hall for a quick dinner, and then retired for the day.
The following day, we agreed to be at HCG, and line up for the
scheduled tests before going in for the Chemo cycles. I went along
with daughter Arati to HCG on 16th August for meeting Dr. Radhey
H.S.Kulkarni.
The Senior Medical Oncologist who was to treat me
While we were seated in the Hall waiting for our turn to meet him,
we heard a very loud and wailing voice of a woman coming from
the adjoining Minor OT Room. I was wondering what was the
terrible loud cry therefrom. We were told that Bone Marrow was
being extracted from a female cancer patient. It sounded so painful
and unbearable as to scare and frighten anybody. I thought since I was
scheduled to undergo the Bone Marrow Test in due course, let me
prepare myself mentally and physically to withstand and tolerate the
impact of this formidable test.
17/8/2011 was going to be commencement of D day for me.
Beginning with the real tests, the day that would decide how I would
respond; the day that would set the path and tone of my treatment.
I was naturally getting ready for the crucial day. Not being sure as
to when I would come back, while preparing for the cancer battle,
before leaving home for the HCG Cancer Center, I hugged Nalini as
a parting gesture.
In the morning, both Vijay and Raju were ready for accompanying me to the HCG. On reaching HCG by 8 am, we were directed to go first to the Registration Counter. As we entered the Hospital in Tower 1, we saw the waiting hall on the left side, where all cancer patients and accompanying relatives or family friends with prior appointments, had assembled.
There were about 15 to 20 patients with worried and forlorn looks writ large on their faces, and most of them having lost hair on their scalps. The patients were waiting for their turn, and perhaps carrying with them the virtual RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) rail ticket to unknown destination. I was somewhat perturbed at this awful sight. At once, I felt and decided that I would not like to be part of such motley crowd of cancer patients, with grim and horrible faces or expressions. I didn’t want to join this gathering of wonderful cancer patients, come what may.
Luckily, on the right side of the entrance to Tower 1, the HCG Cancer
Centre had arranged interestingly a small but beautiful Art Gallery,
which provides a welcome change to the group of cancer patients and
the cancer concerned, and a sense of relief cum joy to the visitors. There
were life studies, landscapes, figurative and abstract expressions, and one
could spend any length of time looking at the painting rows. I said to
myself that ‘this is where I’ll stand and enjoy paintings, artwork and
colour pics for any length of time’, but will not walk to the left side
waiting hall.
The HCG Art Gallery became my regular halting point, before going in for any tests and the chemo cycles treatment. While standing there at the Art Gallery my mind started wandering and thinking about a world within the world. A different world of, by and for Cancer Patients : some serious, while some others more serious; with heads looking down to the ground below or in front of them. They were appearing as though they were completely cut off from what is happening in front of them. I was not able to say if they were experiencing untold pain and suffering, or were just thinking about how the end would come.
Meanwhile, someone called my name from the Reception Counter that it was my turn now to see the Doctor. I reached the entrance of the Consultation Room. Behind the door was an attending nurse waiting with Blood Pressure Gauge, and Instrument for testing Blood Sugar. When asked if I was a diabetic, I said ‘No’. Then, she checked my sugar level and found it normal. But when my blood pressure was checked, it was slightly higher than normal. Thereafter, I was taken to the radioactive area, where I had to undergo muga scan again after radioactive injection was given. The muga scan indicated that it was also normal.
Vijay took me to a Room in Tower 4, and said I could rest there till the next procedure is taken up. However, Dr. Radhey Shyam recommended that I undergo one more Ultrasound Guided FNAC, as reconfirmation of the diagnosis from the HCG Lab for arriving at definite conclusions before the Bone Marrow procedure.
Bone Marrow Extraction Test : the last of tests for eliminating semblance of metastasis or spread of cancer This was the first test of my endurance to bear with such pain. It would demonstrate my resilience to absorb the impact of torture on me without letting it out, and to take the bull by its horn. I checked into a comfortable room upstairs in Tower 4 of HCG.
I changed over to the hospital uniform, and awaited the preparatory work being done by the paramedical staff for conducting the critical test. Once the tools and arrangement were readied, the attending specialist Dr. Smita walked in. She asked me to lie down on my side, and not to worry while telling me that it will pain a bit, but would be tolerable. I had known about the intensity of pain in this procedure from the screaming of Bone Marrow Test case done a day before, and I was ready for the said Test.
To begin with, a local anaesthesia was given deep inside the spinal cord. The pain was not so tolerable, but my body shivered. The next part of the procedure seemed worse, since a similar needle which was connected to a suction pump, would be inserted into the spinal system to draw some bone marrow fluid, and collect it in a small receptacle. For the second time, the Doctor pushed the long needle inside my spinal cord, while a medical assistant started the suction pump. The pain was really unbearable, and as I was not shouting or screaming then, my hands had become numb with the pulling of the bed railing.
36 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
I found that some light yellow fluid from my spinal cord was extracted, and the Doctor said OK. I was thus relieved. I must say this Bone Marrow Extraction procedure had made me stronger inside, to face the following mighty Chemotherapy.
The bone marrow extraction was sent to the lab instantly for checking, as Dr. Dixit was pushing to get the assessment done as fast as possible. Within half an hour, the report came, and to my great relief I was told that the cancer in me had not spread to the bone, submerging all the pain I underwent. It was thus an unforgettable episode in Testing.
The HCG Art Gallery became my regular halting point, before going in for any tests and the chemo cycles treatment. While standing there at the Art Gallery my mind started wandering and thinking about a world within the world. A different world of, by and for Cancer Patients : some serious, while some others more serious; with heads looking down to the ground below or in front of them. They were appearing as though they were completely cut off from what is happening in front of them. I was not able to say if they were experiencing untold pain and suffering, or were just thinking about how the end would come.
Meanwhile, someone called my name from the Reception Counter that it was my turn now to see the Doctor. I reached the entrance of the Consultation Room. Behind the door was an attending nurse waiting with Blood Pressure Gauge, and Instrument for testing Blood Sugar. When asked if I was a diabetic, I said ‘No’. Then, she checked my sugar level and found it normal. But when my blood pressure was checked, it was slightly higher than normal. Thereafter, I was taken to the radioactive area, where I had to undergo muga scan again after radioactive injection was given. The muga scan indicated that it was also normal.
Vijay took me to a Room in Tower 4, and said I could rest there till the next procedure is taken up. However, Dr. Radhey Shyam recommended that I undergo one more Ultrasound Guided FNAC, as reconfirmation of the diagnosis from the HCG Lab for arriving at definite conclusions before the Bone Marrow procedure.
H.S.Kulkarni.
I reached 1st Flr of Fr 2 for Ultrasound Guided FNAC
test. The procedure was carried out by a Senior Pathologist, who
confirmed that the Cancer I had was non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, but
added a suffix to it and wrote that it was Indolent Non-Hodgkin’s
Lymphoma. It meant that my cancer was a milder and gentle one, and
not aggressive. To my question as to how many types of Lymphomas
are there, I was told that it is aggressive, galloping and indolent. I felt
that I was lucky to the extent that my Lymphoma cancer was of a
milder variety.
Bone Marrow Extraction Test : the last of tests for eliminating semblance of metastasis or spread of cancer This was the first test of my endurance to bear with such pain. It would demonstrate my resilience to absorb the impact of torture on me without letting it out, and to take the bull by its horn. I checked into a comfortable room upstairs in Tower 4 of HCG.
I changed over to the hospital uniform, and awaited the preparatory work being done by the paramedical staff for conducting the critical test. Once the tools and arrangement were readied, the attending specialist Dr. Smita walked in. She asked me to lie down on my side, and not to worry while telling me that it will pain a bit, but would be tolerable. I had known about the intensity of pain in this procedure from the screaming of Bone Marrow Test case done a day before, and I was ready for the said Test.
To begin with, a local anaesthesia was given deep inside the spinal cord. The pain was not so tolerable, but my body shivered. The next part of the procedure seemed worse, since a similar needle which was connected to a suction pump, would be inserted into the spinal system to draw some bone marrow fluid, and collect it in a small receptacle. For the second time, the Doctor pushed the long needle inside my spinal cord, while a medical assistant started the suction pump. The pain was really unbearable, and as I was not shouting or screaming then, my hands had become numb with the pulling of the bed railing.
36 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
I found that some light yellow fluid from my spinal cord was extracted, and the Doctor said OK. I was thus relieved. I must say this Bone Marrow Extraction procedure had made me stronger inside, to face the following mighty Chemotherapy.
The bone marrow extraction was sent to the lab instantly for checking, as Dr. Dixit was pushing to get the assessment done as fast as possible. Within half an hour, the report came, and to my great relief I was told that the cancer in me had not spread to the bone, submerging all the pain I underwent. It was thus an unforgettable episode in Testing.
Chapter 6
38 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
We requested Dr. Radhey Shyam to proceed with the treatment. By then,
the time was 8.30 pm.
To commence, hydration was started with one litre bottle, though
the drip was set at slow pace; it was said that the first hydration would
take about two hours. Such 5 Litre dripping had to be taken, and the
total estimated time was 12 hours. Being the first Chemo Cycle, the
dripping had to be done gradually. Thus, I had to bear with all this
silently.
In the meantime, I heard an announcement on the public address system of the Hospital calling for the attention of Dr. Radhey Shyam, which said : “Patient No. 1122 in Tower 3 collapsing rapidly, Dr. Radhey Shyam to rush”. He literally ran out from our room to attend the emergency call. When Dr. Radhey Shyam came back after some time, Raju and Vijay met him, and sought his detailed advice or instructions for me. He took them outside the Room, and gave instructions. I believe the Doctor informed them that either of them should remain awake throughout the night, keep a constant vigil and observe any kind of reactions. Particularly, when Adriamycin is administered, there may possibly be some reaction or otherwise. Between them, it was decided that Raju would stay back for the night, and Vijay would leave for home and rest.
Arati had already left for home to prepare food for Raju and Vijay in case both returned. No one expected that the Chemo procedure would continue throughout the night till next day morning, I was relaxing on the bed with Canola and the Hydration Bottle hanging on my left side of the bed. Raju then walked into the room at 10.30 pm in the night, and had a look at the bottle. He estimated that it would take another 40 to 45 minutes for the bottle to get emptied, while the liquid content was being absorbed in my body. Thereafter, when the first bottle of Hydration got emptied, Raju informed the attending nurse. The next medicine to be given was chemotherapy drug - a mix of cyclophosphamide vincristine and rituximab. Though not much reaction was expected, Raju said he would keep tab on it by remaining awake, but told me to close my eyes and sleep.
Healing Power of Spirituality : Prayer and Meditation It is believed, known and accepted that God, the Almighty; Religion; Prayer and Meditation bring about some kind of relief and healing to the seriously ill and suffering patients, including those afflicted with life threatening diseases such as cancer. I have been a religious person and ardent devotee of Sri Raghavendra Swamy of Mantralaya. My father used to recite aloud the stotra when we were children, and we learnt it by heart. I was also regularly praying and worshipping Hala Ganesha, our family deity. There were several incidents in my life which had reinforced my faith in these divine forces. Worshipping them regularly came naturally to me. I made sure of praying to them during the times of crisis.
People having chronic and serious ailments including cancer are known to tap the inner spiritual side for relief and consolation. This might include chanting, prayer, reading passages from holy books, or simply expressing gratitude. It may not have been possible to scientifically establish or prove that spiritualism helps in healing and provides reliefs, or in lessening the overall pain or severity in treatment, side effects, etc.
In my case, I was surprised to note that as soon as the bottle after the Hydration was plugged in, without my being aware, my mind started repeating gurumantra “Pujyaya Raghavendraya Sathya Dharma Rathayacha,
Bhajatam Kalpa Vrukshaya Namatham Kamadehnave” continuously non- stop till the bottle was over, and beyond. This was not due to any conscious effort on my part; it was automatic like a tape recorder playing from my mind. I could not switch it off, and I had to, therefore, let it go on. Symbolically, this mantra seemed to provide full cover and protection to me throughout the treatment. Even during change over, the recording of this chanting was going on in my mind non-stop till the whole chemo cycle was over. This pleasantly surprised me. I did
40 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
We do not know who was monitoring all this, who was putting this on, and who would switch off and on, as the controls were not with me. I was told the next bottle was the main Chemo. The duty doctor was present when the nurse was connecting the Chemo bottle, and adjusting the rate of flow. The flow rate was set in tandem with the rate at which the drops were going through the catheter window. I was told that it would take about two hours for the bottle to empty.
The Chemotherapy drug in liquid form was Adriamycin, and red in colour. I was told that the Chemo liquid drug was corrosive and highly toxic; hence it had to be kept at a distance. Raju was given special instructions to keep tab and non - stop watch on the bottle till it was over, because it was this Chemo drug which causes reactions, and feared by patients.
Dripping slowly through the veins of my hand, the liquid got into my body and to all the systems. While Raju was engrossed, I was reciting the stotra in my mind spontaneously, without any effort on my part. The stotra was being recited as though it was coming automatically from my mind, without my knowing. As the Chemo liquid flow was about to be over, I felt rather relieved, saying that God is great. Apparently, the liquid had hardly any reaction and adverse effect on me.
I had taken it in my stride without much problem. I felt happy at undergoing the first cycle of Chemotherapy effortlessly. The duty doctor appeared equally satisfied, as he was coming off and on to just enquire how I was feeling, and looking at my normal response, he said ‘Uncle, you are indeed strong enough’. I just wanted this compliment very much. In any event, it would strengthen and steel my mind - body to squarely face the remaining Chemo cycles.
Slowly, after two and half hours, the bottle got emptied, and I could see Raju heaving a sigh of relief. He told me “ Daddy, after this it would be again flush Hydration, which is smooth because the liquid for flushing is Aqua. By then, it was early morning 5.30 am. The flush water was going in at almost double the rate, and got over fast. I was told to have a wash, and get ready to leave. Vijay came back, and it was decided that we go home after settling the Hospital Bill. We all reached home around 10 am after leaving the HCG Cancer Centre.
I was received at the door by our all women family members like a soldier coming from the battle front. Nalu ushered me to my rest room. While relaxing thereafter, I was trying to understand if the reactions or side effects of the first chemo would be visible in the days to come. But I subsequently found and noted that I was normal as usual without any sign of the chemo reactions : no hair fall; no nausea; no heartburn; no constipation; surprisingly nothing ! I thought and felt that it was my family Deity / Guru who had protected me from the usual side effects of the first Chemo, and expressed my gratitude to Him.
I knew that cancer treatment with modern medicine will turn out to be very expensive and exorbitant, while the Hospital bill towards the first cycle of chemotherapy will itself be the indicator. But both Vijay and Raju told me not to worry about the same, and between them they would take care of the treatment cost completely. Vijay went a step further to say that he had got us, i.e., me and wife Nalini covered under his family insurance policy, which enables him to meet a considerable portion of the cancer treatment cost. It was really thoughtful and timely on the part of Vijay to come to my aid in the critical circumstances by having arranged health insurance, for which I cannot adequately thank him. Raju assured that he had arranged for the balance, and I need not bother at all. As Raju had to go back to US because of his work pressure, he excused himself, but assured to come before the treatment got over.
Incidentally, what I realised and recognised in the diagnosis of my cancer, and the process of seeking treatment and management of the disease, is the mighty care and unflinching support I was getting from my family members. It enabled and strengthened me to tenaciously pursue the battle of cancer. I realised the spontaneous care, intense concern and dedicated support so warm heartedly, caringly and lovingly provided to me by my wife Nalini, son-in-law Vijay, daughter
42 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
Arati and son Raju at every step or stride, and at every procedure and point, which constituted a critical phase in my fight against cancer. I must say that all the four members of my family truly constituted as my Care Givers, as they are known, in my long battle against the accursed cancer. I am indeed overwhelmed by their love and attachment, besides their unflinching care and concern for me, which has ultimately given me a new lease of life.
Some Dos and Don’ts, as also preparing to face impact of Chemotherapy cycles on Mind and Body.
After 21 days, we were ready to reach HCG again for the Second Chemo Cycle. Before leaving for HCG, I used to pray God, and hug wife Nalini, not being sure if something untoward were to happen during the process of treatment, I used to get the feeling that each time the hug might be the last one. But I was definitely going with a sense of assurance to face the Chemo Cycle, and come back confidently. It was virtual repeat of the routine and round of tests given during the first chemo cycle, excepting for incremental increase in the adriamycin dose volume and concentration. With the administration of the second cycle of chemotherapy, the body reaction was the same as that of the first one. Thereupon, the Medical Oncologist Dr. Radhey Shyam, had prescribed five steroid injections to be taken every day for five days.
A nurse would come home and give me these injections. In addition, I was advised to take a minimum of 4 litres of water every day. This was needed as the cancer cells crystallize, and have to be pushed out of the system through urination. Willy-nilly, I had to consume this volume of water.
After 3 days of the second chemo cycle, I observed while taking bath some hair strands from my scalp started falling, though it was not appreciable, I thought that this as clear manifestation of the side effects. Dr. Radhey Shyam had also advised me that the chemotherapy drugs would definitely reduce my immunity very much, and I had
H.S. Kulkarni 43
I had to take care by not moving out in the crowd or getting exposed to pollution or chemicals. There were, however, mild side reactions like constipation for initial three days after this chemo cycle. I had lost my sense of taste, but I could not reduce my intake of food, as I was taking home cooked food, and I had to remain fit and active. Further, as there was deficiency of Vitamin D in me, Dr. Radhey Shyam advised the best way of making up for that would be by exposure to sunlight.
I was ensuring that by walking during the morning and after lunch in sunlight every day, Vitamin D is generated in my body. Even during the days when I had Chemo, I used to get up every day at 4.30 am, and after freshening up I would start the day with AUM, and do Yoga exercises besides six regular pranayamas without fail. This was helping me physically as well as morally. I had decided to face Cancer and Chemotherapy with full force and determination. But looking at the reactions emerging after 2 cycles of Chemo, I thought I must rise to the occasion, and prepare myself to address this issue. I realised that while undergoing treatment for cancer by Chemotherapy (or for that matter by Surgery / Radiation for others), the patient will have to prepare himself or herself mentally and physically to bear with the excruciating pain and suffering, besides mental agony and distress.
It is an accepted and settled proposition that Chemotherapy is the mainstay in cancer treatment. To a large extent, Chemotherapy and its side effects or reactions are not known or understood by most of the people. Incidentally, Oncologists neither have time nor inclination to educate or explain to patients or their family about Chemotherapy; how it works, and causes reactions or side effects; answers or response to these, and a host of questions in the minds of the patients, are required. Thus, Chemotherapy has somewhat remained a mystery.
In Annexure II to this cancer narrative, Chemotherapy modality of treatment is simplified and explained; how it works; what side effects it causes; and how to manage them.
44 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle Facing & overcoming typical side effects or unusual complications during the remaining chemo cycles.
On completion of the second Chemo cycle at HCG Cancer Care Centre, Dr. Radhey Shyam reviewed my condition and informed that everything was going as per the plan. advised me that I have to be careful in meeting many people; I should not go out in the crowd; and I should not allow all sorts of people with any kind of infection to visit or contact me. This was necessary since my immunity level had dropped due to the toxicity of Chemo drugs, and I would be vulnerable to infection faster. Coming out of any infection at this stage would be very tough and time consuming; if any infection were to come midway, then the chemotherapy cycle schedule would get disturbed, which would delay my recovery.
As my body was responding well, he wanted to maintain the schedule of giving Chemo cycles. He touched my left cheek near the parotid gland, and found that the lump had already vanished by the end of second cycle of chemo. Then, he said that cancer cells may have been killed, dissolved and flushed out of the system with the passing of urine. It was, therefore,
Chapter 7
H.S. Kulkarni 45 Is it worthwhile drinking so much of extra water, and tolerating the pain due to the aggressive Adriamycin.
I did ask him whether I could resume my regular quota of water, since the Lump had gone, but he advised me to go slow on coming back.
That the Lump had gone without surgery was indeed a great feeling. However, the Standard Uptake Values (SUV) were not nil, though they were much less when we started, with four Chemo cycles still to go. We came back with the next schedule fixed, and wished to go through the post second chemo period.
It is during this period, following medical advice, I had to turn away or distance from my grandchildren, who were though preoccupied with their study and school schedules. I was compelled to avoid visitors and even meeting people. Thus, I was virtually isolated, and started feeling lonely except for talking to and hearing my emotional Care Giver, namely, none other than my better half Nalini. No doubt,
I used to be occupied with technical work for about six hours during the day. The rest of the time I used to while away seeing and watching happily the kitchen garden, the roads across, the sky and the roof in the house. Then, the thought of engaging myself and remaining occupied prevailed, diverting my mind from the pains, isolation and boredom.
The day for the third Chemo cycle was approaching, and I felt as though everything was Okay. But when the Blood was tested a day prior to the scheduled Chemo, my Potassium level had gone up. Dr. Radhey Shyam saw the report, and said he can’t go ahead with the chemo procedure, unless the Potassium level came to within normal levels. After a couple of days of controlled diet, we had another run of Blood test. Good riddance, the Potassium level had become normal with my food changes. We were happy about it, as I could go through the third Chemo the next day. This time around, the chemo got over in about six hours.
46 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle Break for Care Givers
By this time, every Care Giver at home was looking exhausted and drained out due to the strain of attending to me, both physically and mentally. I thought even Care Givers needed to take care of themselves. The task of taking care of cancer patients is a heavy taxing job, physical as well as mental, apart from entailing postponement and modification of their plans and schedules. They would have to take care of their needs and other requirements, while wanting rest and change from the drudgery of giving continuous attention, service and support to cancer patients. It was, therefore, thoughtful of Vijay and Arati to take a few days off during the intervening time between two chemo cycles, to go to the exotic town of Pondicherry, and return by the next chemo cycle schedule.
I also felt relieved that it was a welcome change for them. As I was desirous of reading Aurobindo’s philosophy since long, I asked Arati to get some books of Aurobindo, particularly ‘Savitri’ from there. So, while Arati and Vijay returned from their brief vacation to Pondicherry duly recharged, I got from her the reading material ‘Savitri’ as a bonus. Meantime, Nalu wanted a break, and went to Dharwad to attend the marriage of her friend’s daughter. I was left with my professional work to be occupied with, while I had the book ‘Savitri’ for my reading.
Engage in some interesting or absorbing activity to divert attention from the severity of treatment and side effects Perhaps I could just sit and worry about the various reactions and side effects that I was going through, but I had decided to keep my regular home office work going on, using my laptop even during my treatment. I got an opportunity to study and design a holder for scrap bookers work. This I did it well, and got the tool developed for making this product and successfully supplied (exported) to United States, which gave me joy and enormous confidence. That reinforced my desire and resolve to manage and come out of my current health condition at the earliest.
H.S. Kulkarni 47
It is against this background, and to divert attention from the severity of treatment I realised that cancer patients like me need to engage in some interesting task or responsibility or lighter pre-occupation cum activity, and possibly creative work. There is nothing like passing time and enjoying TV programmes, serials and debates, painting a canvas, listening to melodious music, designing a new product, and playing with children, watching them swim, play, scream with joy and happiness. With no further incidents, one week passed, and Nalu was back to my emotional support, and to give the much needed company. Raju had decided to come to India to enquire about my health, and to be in time for my next chemo.
The fourth Chemo Cycle turned out to be exactly the same as the third one, and passed off without hitch or hassle. After this Chemo Cycle, Raju returned to US in view of his job compulsions.
Then, with the fifth Chemo Cycle approaching, the 21 days in between were rolling without any change.
Sudden attack of Herpes turns out as a dreadful side effect : but warded off fortuitously, and survived.
One day, as I came back from my evening walk, while Nalu was sitting in the drawing room watching TV. I felt that some bug or insect was crawling on my back. I removed my shirt. and tried to see what was it.
I told Nalu to see if there was anything crawling on my back. She said there was nothing. But the itching sensation thereat was not going. I applied home cream, and tried to sleep. But throughout the night it was itching very much. The next day when I asked Nalu to see, she said there was some reddish line on my back. I thought it might be some sort of allergy.
As the day progressed, things were getting worse. There was some fluid secretion, as my baniyan became yellowish, and the itching becoming severe. I was not able to bear it. Next day, we saw Dr. Radhey Shyam, the attending HCG Oncologist, who after seeing the yellow colour on my baniyan, instantaneously said
48 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle it was Herpes, which happens as a side reaction to Chemo in some persons.
The attack of Herpes was both shocking and devastrating, as it had to be dealt with top most priority, over and above the Chemotherapy treatment, putting the clock back on the progressive management of cancer. Dr. Radhey Shyam said the Chemo cycles can wait till the Herpes is addressed and treated.
The news hit like a bolt from the blue. This severe reaction or side effect was absolutely unexpected and unanticipated. Obviously, it was a huge setback to the process and progress in the treatment of my cancer.
I then remembered the Cancer Patient who was crying outside Dr. Radhey Shyam’s Room one day. I also was very much crying aloud. Nalu was totally upset, and Vijay communicated this issue to Raju. And everyone in the house was shell shocked. When things were moving so smoothly, how come this sudden complication ? I knew how Vijay’s late father Srinivasarao Mirji had suffered from Herpes. He almost died then because of it. While compared to cancer, the Herpes attack appeared more serious, and life threatening.
Cancer
Th disease though serious, was not contagious, whereas Herpes is. With all the family members in the house, specially the kids around, it was a serious problem and high risk. Till now I was going through the issue of isolation, and now Herpes made me feel what quarantining a person would mean. How much frightening it would be. Dr. Radhey Shyam informed us that till Herpes is treated and got rid off, Chemotherapy treatment will have to be deferred. Strangely, Herpes had upset the Chemo cycle schedule for me.
The isolation was nerve wrecking. I had even stopped going out for walk. My daily schedule had changed. Every time I took the antibiotics medicine prescribed by Dr. Radhey Shyam for treating my new enemy Herpes, I started taking them, though I knew that allopathy was no real cure for this disease. Thus, using antibiotics was more like a palliative.
H.S. Kulkarni 49
But slowly I decided to gather confidence, and started to think laterally so that I could come out of this alarming situation, and get rid of this Sword of Damocles. Irrespective of the result, I decided to fight. Next day I called our Dharwad friend Arvind Kulkarni and requested him to reach the well known Herpes Healer and to get the wondrous powder mix. Accordingly, he got the said Herpes reddish powder mix, and sent to me the same day. He advised me to make paste of the same by mixing it in clean water, and slogging it along the Herpes line.
I was somewhat relieved to note that there was a ray of hope in this home remedy, and I decided to try it out, as there was no other choice. Moreover, as it was an external application only, I knew it would not interfere with the oral medication prescribed by Dr. Radhey Shyam. I started this application, and continued it for the next three days. And prayed to God to give me some lease of life as a last chance, so that I could go to Dharwad, and have the satisfaction of completing several unfinished tasks and responsibilities to my evolved Savitri, i.e., my better half Nalu, before it becomes late.
There would be enough time, insofar as my cancer is concerned, for the ultimate to happen, but I did not have any such hope in allopathy, as the treatment otherwise available was just trial and error. Eternally grateful to God that my prayers were answered. On the fourth day, the Herpes started drying up, and stopped spreading further. I began getting hope of survival from this dreadful attack of Herpes, not knowing whether this was due to antibiotics, herpes powder mix, my prayers or my Savitri’s Sumangali Yog.
Finally, after seven days, there was no burning sensation, no more itching and no further growth. There was ultimately relief in this regard, and I survived from Herpes. “Savitri”, the great book by Aurobindo was soothing my mind at times of crisis, and I was believing that anyone who is dying is helpless, but the confidence of Savitri and her likes as my better half Nalu, the key Care Giver has shown, can pull out a dying person from the jaws of death !
50 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
I thought it was right time that I approach Dr. Radhey Shyam, and request him to schedule the remaining two Chemo cycles, and be done with it.
Chapter 8
52 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
The following week went off without any problem or issue; the same steroid injections, the same mild constipation for a few days following the chemo, and eating with the wooden tongue without any taste. I was ready to undergo all these, and still gulp the required quantity of nutritious food that Arati prepared without worrying about my taste buds. I took them only with the objective of improving my physical well being.
After one week we went to HCG for the hopeful last Pet Scan. I was walking briskly as normal, and thought that for the last time I could appreciate the paintings in the Art Gallery, which used to be changed every week. There were fresh murals this time, and abstract expressions.
We initially got my Muga Scan done, and thereafter the main Pet Scan was arranged this time in a separate Radioactivity Isolated Room, and not at the regular one. Injection of radioactive liquid was given; then one bottle of radioactive Treated Water had to be taken, and I was full. After this, I was waiting in one of the isolation rooms, when I was called as the next patient to take the Pet Scan. I laid down on the Machine, and the scanning was done. Thus, the scanning got over in ten minutes.
By evening, the Pet Scan report came with a mild shock that the SUV (Standard Uptake Value) at two places was still not within acceptable level, whereas at other three places it was nil. Thereupon, Dr. Radhey Shyam informed me that I had to undergo two more Chemo Cycles, and only after that everything would be clear, and I could be relieved.
I was quite upset, but thought there was no way that I could avoid complying with the Doctor’s advice. I felt disappointed and helpless. With God’s grace, I reconciled to completing 8 Cycles of Chemotherapy by taking another two Cycles. The Seventh and Eighth Chemo cycles were repetition of the earlier cycles in the normal course, without bringing up different or additional reactions or side effects, except the bare ones.
H.S.Kulkarni 53.
And then the final Pet Scan was done on 26th December 2011, with the report being clear, and normal. Finally, the Medical Oncology Team of HCG Cancer Centre declared that day there was complete remission of the cancer in me. I learnt that “complete remission” in cancer meant that no signs or symptoms, and no evidence of cancer can be found on a physical examination by a doctor or through radiological tests.
For complete remission, some doctors use the terminology “NED” - which stands for “no evidence of disease”. A complete remission may also be described as a “complete response”. Thus, I was happy and relieved with no bounds for my cheer that I had at last conquered or defeated the dreadful cancer.
I was indeed feeling fine and looking healthy. Did not appear like a cancer affected person, unless told by me. I was happily relieved, having won the battle, and being told that there is no evidence of cancer in me. We then decided to spend time at the HCG cafeteria. Luckily, this time Nalu came to the Hospital, and joined us in the Cafeteria, and also to bid good bye to HCG Cancer Centre, and the Medical Oncology team.
We were called in by Dr. Radhey Shyam to possibly give us some parting instructions. He gave us a list of several Dos and Don’ts, and asked us to follow them regularly and religiously. Then, he virtually delivered a shock therapy to us. He told us that I should not make the mistake of believing that the treatment is over for good. I held my breath, and all of us were waiting for his next announcement.
Dr. Radhey Shyam said that I should once in every three months follow up with Rituximab Intravenous Injection, being part of Chemotherapy for the next two years as a preventive measure, and also to ward off any relapse or recurrence possibility. And this post treatment or remission care was going to be at a prohibitive cost of about Rupees twelve lakhs. Reconciling with this mandatory medical requirement, I had to still carry the monkey on my back for
54 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
A minimum period of two years from my remission, and a maximum period of five years, as that is supposed to be the time or period when I would be declared free from cancer totally. Without having to bother about the preventive action and scenario, I did not want to hold back or contain my feelings of relief, joy and celebration of winning the battle against of cancer. The next day, therefore, was a day of relaxation, and a thanksgiving day. I had to plan our trip back to Dharwad, though tinged with mixed feelings.
Firstly, I owe my deepest gratitude to our family deity Halaganesha and my revered Guru Raghavendra Swamy for having blessed me with a new lease of life, upon total remission of my cancer. Secondly, I remain ever grateful to all my Care Givers, namely, wife Nalini, son-in-law Vijay, daughter Arati and son Raju for supporting and propping me up all the while, in addition to serving, aiding, arranging and rendering miscellaneous help to me. And naturally sacrificing their time, comfort, priorities and personal conveniences, from the stage of my cancer diagnosis to cancer remission. Of course, I owe a lot to my better half Nalu, who evolved as my Savitri, and stood with me like a rock and shadow, giving me unflinching emotional strength and support, as well as giving me life insurance. That gave me the belief that as long she was around me, I will fight and defeat cancer, without letting anything otherwise to happen.
We decided to have a good party time outside in the evening, and went to Taj Vivanta at MG Road. It was relief, joy and celebration for all of us, We were all happy, had good dinner, while I followed dietary restrictions right from the first freedom day.
The next day was going to be the last day of our stay in Bangalore. We were to leave for Dharwad by the night train, but decided to leave Arati’s house in the morning, and go about meeting all our close relatives, who had been part of the family support group and well wishers in my cancer battle. It was thus a thanksgiving day, and farewell meeting with family connections in Bangalore, ie., sister-in-law Nanda,
H.S. Kulkarni 55
My sister Prema, sister-in-law Sudha and co-brother Dinesh Prathinidhi at their respective houses.
Chapter 9
In the meantime, I heard an announcement on the public address system of the Hospital calling for the attention of Dr. Radhey Shyam, which said : “Patient No. 1122 in Tower 3 collapsing rapidly, Dr. Radhey Shyam to rush”. He literally ran out from our room to attend the emergency call. When Dr. Radhey Shyam came back after some time, Raju and Vijay met him, and sought his detailed advice or instructions for me. He took them outside the Room, and gave instructions. I believe the Doctor informed them that either of them should remain awake throughout the night, keep a constant vigil and observe any kind of reactions. Particularly, when Adriamycin is administered, there may possibly be some reaction or otherwise. Between them, it was decided that Raju would stay back for the night, and Vijay would leave for home and rest.
Arati had already left for home to prepare food for Raju and Vijay in case both returned. No one expected that the Chemo procedure would continue throughout the night till next day morning, I was relaxing on the bed with Canola and the Hydration Bottle hanging on my left side of the bed. Raju then walked into the room at 10.30 pm in the night, and had a look at the bottle. He estimated that it would take another 40 to 45 minutes for the bottle to get emptied, while the liquid content was being absorbed in my body. Thereafter, when the first bottle of Hydration got emptied, Raju informed the attending nurse. The next medicine to be given was chemotherapy drug - a mix of cyclophosphamide vincristine and rituximab. Though not much reaction was expected, Raju said he would keep tab on it by remaining awake, but told me to close my eyes and sleep.
Healing Power of Spirituality : Prayer and Meditation It is believed, known and accepted that God, the Almighty; Religion; Prayer and Meditation bring about some kind of relief and healing to the seriously ill and suffering patients, including those afflicted with life threatening diseases such as cancer. I have been a religious person and ardent devotee of Sri Raghavendra Swamy of Mantralaya. My father used to recite aloud the stotra when we were children, and we learnt it by heart. I was also regularly praying and worshipping Hala Ganesha, our family deity. There were several incidents in my life which had reinforced my faith in these divine forces. Worshipping them regularly came naturally to me. I made sure of praying to them during the times of crisis.
People having chronic and serious ailments including cancer are known to tap the inner spiritual side for relief and consolation. This might include chanting, prayer, reading passages from holy books, or simply expressing gratitude. It may not have been possible to scientifically establish or prove that spiritualism helps in healing and provides reliefs, or in lessening the overall pain or severity in treatment, side effects, etc.
In my case, I was surprised to note that as soon as the bottle after the Hydration was plugged in, without my being aware, my mind started repeating gurumantra “Pujyaya Raghavendraya Sathya Dharma Rathayacha,
Bhajatam Kalpa Vrukshaya Namatham Kamadehnave” continuously non- stop till the bottle was over, and beyond. This was not due to any conscious effort on my part; it was automatic like a tape recorder playing from my mind. I could not switch it off, and I had to, therefore, let it go on. Symbolically, this mantra seemed to provide full cover and protection to me throughout the treatment. Even during change over, the recording of this chanting was going on in my mind non-stop till the whole chemo cycle was over. This pleasantly surprised me. I did
40 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
We do not know who was monitoring all this, who was putting this on, and who would switch off and on, as the controls were not with me. I was told the next bottle was the main Chemo. The duty doctor was present when the nurse was connecting the Chemo bottle, and adjusting the rate of flow. The flow rate was set in tandem with the rate at which the drops were going through the catheter window. I was told that it would take about two hours for the bottle to empty.
The Chemotherapy drug in liquid form was Adriamycin, and red in colour. I was told that the Chemo liquid drug was corrosive and highly toxic; hence it had to be kept at a distance. Raju was given special instructions to keep tab and non - stop watch on the bottle till it was over, because it was this Chemo drug which causes reactions, and feared by patients.
Dripping slowly through the veins of my hand, the liquid got into my body and to all the systems. While Raju was engrossed, I was reciting the stotra in my mind spontaneously, without any effort on my part. The stotra was being recited as though it was coming automatically from my mind, without my knowing. As the Chemo liquid flow was about to be over, I felt rather relieved, saying that God is great. Apparently, the liquid had hardly any reaction and adverse effect on me.
I had taken it in my stride without much problem. I felt happy at undergoing the first cycle of Chemotherapy effortlessly. The duty doctor appeared equally satisfied, as he was coming off and on to just enquire how I was feeling, and looking at my normal response, he said ‘Uncle, you are indeed strong enough’. I just wanted this compliment very much. In any event, it would strengthen and steel my mind - body to squarely face the remaining Chemo cycles.
Slowly, after two and half hours, the bottle got emptied, and I could see Raju heaving a sigh of relief. He told me “ Daddy, after this it would be again flush Hydration, which is smooth because the liquid for flushing is Aqua. By then, it was early morning 5.30 am. The flush water was going in at almost double the rate, and got over fast. I was told to have a wash, and get ready to leave. Vijay came back, and it was decided that we go home after settling the Hospital Bill. We all reached home around 10 am after leaving the HCG Cancer Centre.
I was received at the door by our all women family members like a soldier coming from the battle front. Nalu ushered me to my rest room. While relaxing thereafter, I was trying to understand if the reactions or side effects of the first chemo would be visible in the days to come. But I subsequently found and noted that I was normal as usual without any sign of the chemo reactions : no hair fall; no nausea; no heartburn; no constipation; surprisingly nothing ! I thought and felt that it was my family Deity / Guru who had protected me from the usual side effects of the first Chemo, and expressed my gratitude to Him.
I knew that cancer treatment with modern medicine will turn out to be very expensive and exorbitant, while the Hospital bill towards the first cycle of chemotherapy will itself be the indicator. But both Vijay and Raju told me not to worry about the same, and between them they would take care of the treatment cost completely. Vijay went a step further to say that he had got us, i.e., me and wife Nalini covered under his family insurance policy, which enables him to meet a considerable portion of the cancer treatment cost. It was really thoughtful and timely on the part of Vijay to come to my aid in the critical circumstances by having arranged health insurance, for which I cannot adequately thank him. Raju assured that he had arranged for the balance, and I need not bother at all. As Raju had to go back to US because of his work pressure, he excused himself, but assured to come before the treatment got over.
Incidentally, what I realised and recognised in the diagnosis of my cancer, and the process of seeking treatment and management of the disease, is the mighty care and unflinching support I was getting from my family members. It enabled and strengthened me to tenaciously pursue the battle of cancer. I realised the spontaneous care, intense concern and dedicated support so warm heartedly, caringly and lovingly provided to me by my wife Nalini, son-in-law Vijay, daughter
42 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
Arati and son Raju at every step or stride, and at every procedure and point, which constituted a critical phase in my fight against cancer. I must say that all the four members of my family truly constituted as my Care Givers, as they are known, in my long battle against the accursed cancer. I am indeed overwhelmed by their love and attachment, besides their unflinching care and concern for me, which has ultimately given me a new lease of life.
Some Dos and Don’ts, as also preparing to face impact of Chemotherapy cycles on Mind and Body.
After 21 days, we were ready to reach HCG again for the Second Chemo Cycle. Before leaving for HCG, I used to pray God, and hug wife Nalini, not being sure if something untoward were to happen during the process of treatment, I used to get the feeling that each time the hug might be the last one. But I was definitely going with a sense of assurance to face the Chemo Cycle, and come back confidently. It was virtual repeat of the routine and round of tests given during the first chemo cycle, excepting for incremental increase in the adriamycin dose volume and concentration. With the administration of the second cycle of chemotherapy, the body reaction was the same as that of the first one. Thereupon, the Medical Oncologist Dr. Radhey Shyam, had prescribed five steroid injections to be taken every day for five days.
A nurse would come home and give me these injections. In addition, I was advised to take a minimum of 4 litres of water every day. This was needed as the cancer cells crystallize, and have to be pushed out of the system through urination. Willy-nilly, I had to consume this volume of water.
After 3 days of the second chemo cycle, I observed while taking bath some hair strands from my scalp started falling, though it was not appreciable, I thought that this as clear manifestation of the side effects. Dr. Radhey Shyam had also advised me that the chemotherapy drugs would definitely reduce my immunity very much, and I had
H.S. Kulkarni 43
I had to take care by not moving out in the crowd or getting exposed to pollution or chemicals. There were, however, mild side reactions like constipation for initial three days after this chemo cycle. I had lost my sense of taste, but I could not reduce my intake of food, as I was taking home cooked food, and I had to remain fit and active. Further, as there was deficiency of Vitamin D in me, Dr. Radhey Shyam advised the best way of making up for that would be by exposure to sunlight.
I was ensuring that by walking during the morning and after lunch in sunlight every day, Vitamin D is generated in my body. Even during the days when I had Chemo, I used to get up every day at 4.30 am, and after freshening up I would start the day with AUM, and do Yoga exercises besides six regular pranayamas without fail. This was helping me physically as well as morally. I had decided to face Cancer and Chemotherapy with full force and determination. But looking at the reactions emerging after 2 cycles of Chemo, I thought I must rise to the occasion, and prepare myself to address this issue. I realised that while undergoing treatment for cancer by Chemotherapy (or for that matter by Surgery / Radiation for others), the patient will have to prepare himself or herself mentally and physically to bear with the excruciating pain and suffering, besides mental agony and distress.
It is an accepted and settled proposition that Chemotherapy is the mainstay in cancer treatment. To a large extent, Chemotherapy and its side effects or reactions are not known or understood by most of the people. Incidentally, Oncologists neither have time nor inclination to educate or explain to patients or their family about Chemotherapy; how it works, and causes reactions or side effects; answers or response to these, and a host of questions in the minds of the patients, are required. Thus, Chemotherapy has somewhat remained a mystery.
In Annexure II to this cancer narrative, Chemotherapy modality of treatment is simplified and explained; how it works; what side effects it causes; and how to manage them.
44 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle Facing & overcoming typical side effects or unusual complications during the remaining chemo cycles.
On completion of the second Chemo cycle at HCG Cancer Care Centre, Dr. Radhey Shyam reviewed my condition and informed that everything was going as per the plan. advised me that I have to be careful in meeting many people; I should not go out in the crowd; and I should not allow all sorts of people with any kind of infection to visit or contact me. This was necessary since my immunity level had dropped due to the toxicity of Chemo drugs, and I would be vulnerable to infection faster. Coming out of any infection at this stage would be very tough and time consuming; if any infection were to come midway, then the chemotherapy cycle schedule would get disturbed, which would delay my recovery.
As my body was responding well, he wanted to maintain the schedule of giving Chemo cycles. He touched my left cheek near the parotid gland, and found that the lump had already vanished by the end of second cycle of chemo. Then, he said that cancer cells may have been killed, dissolved and flushed out of the system with the passing of urine. It was, therefore,
Chapter 7
H.S. Kulkarni 45 Is it worthwhile drinking so much of extra water, and tolerating the pain due to the aggressive Adriamycin.
I did ask him whether I could resume my regular quota of water, since the Lump had gone, but he advised me to go slow on coming back.
That the Lump had gone without surgery was indeed a great feeling. However, the Standard Uptake Values (SUV) were not nil, though they were much less when we started, with four Chemo cycles still to go. We came back with the next schedule fixed, and wished to go through the post second chemo period.
It is during this period, following medical advice, I had to turn away or distance from my grandchildren, who were though preoccupied with their study and school schedules. I was compelled to avoid visitors and even meeting people. Thus, I was virtually isolated, and started feeling lonely except for talking to and hearing my emotional Care Giver, namely, none other than my better half Nalini. No doubt,
I used to be occupied with technical work for about six hours during the day. The rest of the time I used to while away seeing and watching happily the kitchen garden, the roads across, the sky and the roof in the house. Then, the thought of engaging myself and remaining occupied prevailed, diverting my mind from the pains, isolation and boredom.
The day for the third Chemo cycle was approaching, and I felt as though everything was Okay. But when the Blood was tested a day prior to the scheduled Chemo, my Potassium level had gone up. Dr. Radhey Shyam saw the report, and said he can’t go ahead with the chemo procedure, unless the Potassium level came to within normal levels. After a couple of days of controlled diet, we had another run of Blood test. Good riddance, the Potassium level had become normal with my food changes. We were happy about it, as I could go through the third Chemo the next day. This time around, the chemo got over in about six hours.
46 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle Break for Care Givers
By this time, every Care Giver at home was looking exhausted and drained out due to the strain of attending to me, both physically and mentally. I thought even Care Givers needed to take care of themselves. The task of taking care of cancer patients is a heavy taxing job, physical as well as mental, apart from entailing postponement and modification of their plans and schedules. They would have to take care of their needs and other requirements, while wanting rest and change from the drudgery of giving continuous attention, service and support to cancer patients. It was, therefore, thoughtful of Vijay and Arati to take a few days off during the intervening time between two chemo cycles, to go to the exotic town of Pondicherry, and return by the next chemo cycle schedule.
I also felt relieved that it was a welcome change for them. As I was desirous of reading Aurobindo’s philosophy since long, I asked Arati to get some books of Aurobindo, particularly ‘Savitri’ from there. So, while Arati and Vijay returned from their brief vacation to Pondicherry duly recharged, I got from her the reading material ‘Savitri’ as a bonus. Meantime, Nalu wanted a break, and went to Dharwad to attend the marriage of her friend’s daughter. I was left with my professional work to be occupied with, while I had the book ‘Savitri’ for my reading.
Engage in some interesting or absorbing activity to divert attention from the severity of treatment and side effects Perhaps I could just sit and worry about the various reactions and side effects that I was going through, but I had decided to keep my regular home office work going on, using my laptop even during my treatment. I got an opportunity to study and design a holder for scrap bookers work. This I did it well, and got the tool developed for making this product and successfully supplied (exported) to United States, which gave me joy and enormous confidence. That reinforced my desire and resolve to manage and come out of my current health condition at the earliest.
H.S. Kulkarni 47
It is against this background, and to divert attention from the severity of treatment I realised that cancer patients like me need to engage in some interesting task or responsibility or lighter pre-occupation cum activity, and possibly creative work. There is nothing like passing time and enjoying TV programmes, serials and debates, painting a canvas, listening to melodious music, designing a new product, and playing with children, watching them swim, play, scream with joy and happiness. With no further incidents, one week passed, and Nalu was back to my emotional support, and to give the much needed company. Raju had decided to come to India to enquire about my health, and to be in time for my next chemo.
The fourth Chemo Cycle turned out to be exactly the same as the third one, and passed off without hitch or hassle. After this Chemo Cycle, Raju returned to US in view of his job compulsions.
Then, with the fifth Chemo Cycle approaching, the 21 days in between were rolling without any change.
Sudden attack of Herpes turns out as a dreadful side effect : but warded off fortuitously, and survived.
One day, as I came back from my evening walk, while Nalu was sitting in the drawing room watching TV. I felt that some bug or insect was crawling on my back. I removed my shirt. and tried to see what was it.
I told Nalu to see if there was anything crawling on my back. She said there was nothing. But the itching sensation thereat was not going. I applied home cream, and tried to sleep. But throughout the night it was itching very much. The next day when I asked Nalu to see, she said there was some reddish line on my back. I thought it might be some sort of allergy.
As the day progressed, things were getting worse. There was some fluid secretion, as my baniyan became yellowish, and the itching becoming severe. I was not able to bear it. Next day, we saw Dr. Radhey Shyam, the attending HCG Oncologist, who after seeing the yellow colour on my baniyan, instantaneously said
48 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle it was Herpes, which happens as a side reaction to Chemo in some persons.
The attack of Herpes was both shocking and devastrating, as it had to be dealt with top most priority, over and above the Chemotherapy treatment, putting the clock back on the progressive management of cancer. Dr. Radhey Shyam said the Chemo cycles can wait till the Herpes is addressed and treated.
The news hit like a bolt from the blue. This severe reaction or side effect was absolutely unexpected and unanticipated. Obviously, it was a huge setback to the process and progress in the treatment of my cancer.
I then remembered the Cancer Patient who was crying outside Dr. Radhey Shyam’s Room one day. I also was very much crying aloud. Nalu was totally upset, and Vijay communicated this issue to Raju. And everyone in the house was shell shocked. When things were moving so smoothly, how come this sudden complication ? I knew how Vijay’s late father Srinivasarao Mirji had suffered from Herpes. He almost died then because of it. While compared to cancer, the Herpes attack appeared more serious, and life threatening.
Cancer
Th disease though serious, was not contagious, whereas Herpes is. With all the family members in the house, specially the kids around, it was a serious problem and high risk. Till now I was going through the issue of isolation, and now Herpes made me feel what quarantining a person would mean. How much frightening it would be. Dr. Radhey Shyam informed us that till Herpes is treated and got rid off, Chemotherapy treatment will have to be deferred. Strangely, Herpes had upset the Chemo cycle schedule for me.
The isolation was nerve wrecking. I had even stopped going out for walk. My daily schedule had changed. Every time I took the antibiotics medicine prescribed by Dr. Radhey Shyam for treating my new enemy Herpes, I started taking them, though I knew that allopathy was no real cure for this disease. Thus, using antibiotics was more like a palliative.
H.S. Kulkarni 49
But slowly I decided to gather confidence, and started to think laterally so that I could come out of this alarming situation, and get rid of this Sword of Damocles. Irrespective of the result, I decided to fight. Next day I called our Dharwad friend Arvind Kulkarni and requested him to reach the well known Herpes Healer and to get the wondrous powder mix. Accordingly, he got the said Herpes reddish powder mix, and sent to me the same day. He advised me to make paste of the same by mixing it in clean water, and slogging it along the Herpes line.
I was somewhat relieved to note that there was a ray of hope in this home remedy, and I decided to try it out, as there was no other choice. Moreover, as it was an external application only, I knew it would not interfere with the oral medication prescribed by Dr. Radhey Shyam. I started this application, and continued it for the next three days. And prayed to God to give me some lease of life as a last chance, so that I could go to Dharwad, and have the satisfaction of completing several unfinished tasks and responsibilities to my evolved Savitri, i.e., my better half Nalu, before it becomes late.
There would be enough time, insofar as my cancer is concerned, for the ultimate to happen, but I did not have any such hope in allopathy, as the treatment otherwise available was just trial and error. Eternally grateful to God that my prayers were answered. On the fourth day, the Herpes started drying up, and stopped spreading further. I began getting hope of survival from this dreadful attack of Herpes, not knowing whether this was due to antibiotics, herpes powder mix, my prayers or my Savitri’s Sumangali Yog.
Finally, after seven days, there was no burning sensation, no more itching and no further growth. There was ultimately relief in this regard, and I survived from Herpes. “Savitri”, the great book by Aurobindo was soothing my mind at times of crisis, and I was believing that anyone who is dying is helpless, but the confidence of Savitri and her likes as my better half Nalu, the key Care Giver has shown, can pull out a dying person from the jaws of death !
50 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
I thought it was right time that I approach Dr. Radhey Shyam, and request him to schedule the remaining two Chemo cycles, and be done with it.
The fifth Chemo Cycle, as scheduled, was virtually a repeat of the
third and fourth cycles without any obstacles. But I would shudder to
think of any bout of further reactions before the Sixth Chemo cycle
scheduled three weeks from now. Once it is completed, I thought I
would get released from this vicious circle of treatment and unforeseen
side reactions.
Chapter 8
52 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
The following week went off without any problem or issue; the same steroid injections, the same mild constipation for a few days following the chemo, and eating with the wooden tongue without any taste. I was ready to undergo all these, and still gulp the required quantity of nutritious food that Arati prepared without worrying about my taste buds. I took them only with the objective of improving my physical well being.
After one week we went to HCG for the hopeful last Pet Scan. I was walking briskly as normal, and thought that for the last time I could appreciate the paintings in the Art Gallery, which used to be changed every week. There were fresh murals this time, and abstract expressions.
We initially got my Muga Scan done, and thereafter the main Pet Scan was arranged this time in a separate Radioactivity Isolated Room, and not at the regular one. Injection of radioactive liquid was given; then one bottle of radioactive Treated Water had to be taken, and I was full. After this, I was waiting in one of the isolation rooms, when I was called as the next patient to take the Pet Scan. I laid down on the Machine, and the scanning was done. Thus, the scanning got over in ten minutes.
By evening, the Pet Scan report came with a mild shock that the SUV (Standard Uptake Value) at two places was still not within acceptable level, whereas at other three places it was nil. Thereupon, Dr. Radhey Shyam informed me that I had to undergo two more Chemo Cycles, and only after that everything would be clear, and I could be relieved.
I was quite upset, but thought there was no way that I could avoid complying with the Doctor’s advice. I felt disappointed and helpless. With God’s grace, I reconciled to completing 8 Cycles of Chemotherapy by taking another two Cycles. The Seventh and Eighth Chemo cycles were repetition of the earlier cycles in the normal course, without bringing up different or additional reactions or side effects, except the bare ones.
H.S.Kulkarni 53.
And then the final Pet Scan was done on 26th December 2011, with the report being clear, and normal. Finally, the Medical Oncology Team of HCG Cancer Centre declared that day there was complete remission of the cancer in me. I learnt that “complete remission” in cancer meant that no signs or symptoms, and no evidence of cancer can be found on a physical examination by a doctor or through radiological tests.
For complete remission, some doctors use the terminology “NED” - which stands for “no evidence of disease”. A complete remission may also be described as a “complete response”. Thus, I was happy and relieved with no bounds for my cheer that I had at last conquered or defeated the dreadful cancer.
I was indeed feeling fine and looking healthy. Did not appear like a cancer affected person, unless told by me. I was happily relieved, having won the battle, and being told that there is no evidence of cancer in me. We then decided to spend time at the HCG cafeteria. Luckily, this time Nalu came to the Hospital, and joined us in the Cafeteria, and also to bid good bye to HCG Cancer Centre, and the Medical Oncology team.
We were called in by Dr. Radhey Shyam to possibly give us some parting instructions. He gave us a list of several Dos and Don’ts, and asked us to follow them regularly and religiously. Then, he virtually delivered a shock therapy to us. He told us that I should not make the mistake of believing that the treatment is over for good. I held my breath, and all of us were waiting for his next announcement.
Dr. Radhey Shyam said that I should once in every three months follow up with Rituximab Intravenous Injection, being part of Chemotherapy for the next two years as a preventive measure, and also to ward off any relapse or recurrence possibility. And this post treatment or remission care was going to be at a prohibitive cost of about Rupees twelve lakhs. Reconciling with this mandatory medical requirement, I had to still carry the monkey on my back for
54 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
A minimum period of two years from my remission, and a maximum period of five years, as that is supposed to be the time or period when I would be declared free from cancer totally. Without having to bother about the preventive action and scenario, I did not want to hold back or contain my feelings of relief, joy and celebration of winning the battle against of cancer. The next day, therefore, was a day of relaxation, and a thanksgiving day. I had to plan our trip back to Dharwad, though tinged with mixed feelings.
Firstly, I owe my deepest gratitude to our family deity Halaganesha and my revered Guru Raghavendra Swamy for having blessed me with a new lease of life, upon total remission of my cancer. Secondly, I remain ever grateful to all my Care Givers, namely, wife Nalini, son-in-law Vijay, daughter Arati and son Raju for supporting and propping me up all the while, in addition to serving, aiding, arranging and rendering miscellaneous help to me. And naturally sacrificing their time, comfort, priorities and personal conveniences, from the stage of my cancer diagnosis to cancer remission. Of course, I owe a lot to my better half Nalu, who evolved as my Savitri, and stood with me like a rock and shadow, giving me unflinching emotional strength and support, as well as giving me life insurance. That gave me the belief that as long she was around me, I will fight and defeat cancer, without letting anything otherwise to happen.
We decided to have a good party time outside in the evening, and went to Taj Vivanta at MG Road. It was relief, joy and celebration for all of us, We were all happy, had good dinner, while I followed dietary restrictions right from the first freedom day.
The next day was going to be the last day of our stay in Bangalore. We were to leave for Dharwad by the night train, but decided to leave Arati’s house in the morning, and go about meeting all our close relatives, who had been part of the family support group and well wishers in my cancer battle. It was thus a thanksgiving day, and farewell meeting with family connections in Bangalore, ie., sister-in-law Nanda,
H.S. Kulkarni 55
My sister Prema, sister-in-law Sudha and co-brother Dinesh Prathinidhi at their respective houses.
After meeting all of them, and bidding them bye, we left for Dharwad
by Train that late evening, and reached Dharwad the following morning.
Based on what helped and enabled me to fight the cancer
battle, and finally attain remission with conventional treatment
is the Mantra of Key Contributory Factors for Combating &
Managing Cancer, brought out in the next Chapter.
H.S. Kulkarni 57
The medication and related issues with regard to the side effects of Chemotherapy, besides augmenting them with additional or adjuvant procedures, medicines, etc.
Of course, the attending Medical Oncologist has to be experienced and effective, duly assisted by a good paramedical team. Choice of the Hospital and the Oncologist would already have been decided at the beginning of the treatment, and there will hardly be any situation or possibility of changing the assigned Oncologist.
Apart from general counselling on overall health, he would advise on a number of dos and don’ts to the patient for alleviation and relief in the event of reactions and side effects, as a result of administering Chemotherapy or any other modality of treatment.
2. The Patient
The most important person in the scheme of cancer management is none other than the cancer patient. Thus, managing and neutralising cancer depend to a large extent on the patient itself. The patient, therefore, must be willing and ready to take and accept the treatment given in the first place; secondly, and more importantly, as cancer treatment is a long drawn process, and consumes considerable time, the treatment becomes highly expensive. Cancer treatment by itself is not insurable, and it is normally not subsidised by private Hospitals or any other institution or body. Cancer drug manufacturers, however, do subsidise the cost of drugs to the patients through Hospitals, but it hardly reaches them. Invariably,the patients are supposed to come for treatment at their own cost,or mobilise it from their sources.
Apart from being prepared and ready to manage these two essential requirements, the patient needs to be or become firm and decisive, if not being strong willed; must muster courage and strength to bear with or tolerate the pains and setbacks, the reactions and side effects during the treatment and after; to face challenges and, overcoming fears and frustrations, etc. and ultimately show grit and determination
58 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle to win the battle.
They would do well to remember that strength does not come from physical capacity; it comes from an indomitable will, as said by Mahatma Gandhi. The body may not be ready or willing, but if the patient wills and makes up his mind, he/she can prompt and direct the body to persist, and move on by being or becoming ready to fight the cancer battle. In the ultimate analysis, the cancer patient will be enabled to, and will have to, pursue and achieve the goal of defeating cancer.
3. Will & Will Power
Will is related to desire. If you do not want something very much, then the will to succeed is likely to be weak. On the other hand, if you have a strong desire, then you are more likely to persist. What ‘Will’ is capable of doing is virtually expressed in the proverbial saying : “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”.
Will Power is the motivation to exercise will. A strong willed person is able to take decisions even in the face of strong opposition or adverse circumstances. A person with lesser or little will power will give in easily. Getting what you want takes will power, whether it means you are doing something or others are doing things for you. To succeed, you must first know what you want. Then, you must be determined to get it, even in the face of extreme difficulties.
Resolve and determination to fight the battle against cancer take shape in the form of Will and Will Power for the patient. As such, a cancer patient must have or would have to develop strong desire and determination to fight; it then manifests as will power to eventually overcome and win the battle against cancer.
One of the classic cases of what ‘will power’ or for that matter power of mind’ can do, despite the body suffering from acute and intolerable pain, is that of Arunima Sinha, a Mountain Climber. She is a former national level volleyball player, who was thrown out of a running train in 2011. In order to save her life, doctors had to amputate part of her left leg. This did not stop her from dreaming
H.S. Kulkarni 59 the impossible. In the light of this event, Arunima became inspired by Yuvraj Singh, the great cricket player, who successfully won his cancer battle. She thus willed, and was determined to climb the mountains. In 2013, Arunima, became the first female amputee (and the first Indian amputee) to climb Mt. Everest, when she was just 25 years old. She then went on to climb Mt. Elbrus in Europe and
Mt. Kilamanjaro in Africa. In her INK Talk at Mumbai in 2014, she attributed her mountain climbing accomplishment solely to the power of her mind, which enabled her body to move on and climb Mount Everest despite physical disability, sluggish body and highest risks to her life.
4. Spirituality
One of the foremost Tibetan Doctors, Dr. Yeshi Dhonden, a Buddhist Monk, who has treated thousands of cancer patients from all over the world, has this to say on Spirituality : Spirituality always plays a bigger role in one’s healthy life and even influences end-of-life decisions. It is defined as how one can connect to their sacred God. It is the awareness of something greater than the individual self.
It can be understood as one’s relationship with their soul, expressed through one’s attitudes, postures and practices. Spirituality can be understood as the inner life of a person. The deeper you go spiritually, the stronger the patients can go on in fighting serious ailments and diseases. During the treatment, they can find the meaning of peace and wellness despite fatigue or pain.
Patients with cancer who had high levels of spiritual well-being reported more enjoyment in life, and higher levels of meaning and peace, even in the midst of cancer-related symptoms such as fatigue or pain. Cancer patients report that their spirituality helps them find hope, gratitude and positivity in their experience, and that their spirituality is a source of strength that helps them cope with life, find meaning in their lives, and make sense of cancer experience as they recover from treatment. One of the greatest gifts of spirituality is learning to love,
60 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle and fully accepting yourself and others in the present moment. Cancer healing leads to higher feelings of personal growth. Spirituality can take many forms, and is unique to each individual. Spiritual practices that may help in coping with cancer and its treatments include:
1. Taking time off regularly to meditate or pray; 2. Reading spiritual writings and works; 3. Retreating to spiritual places and natural settings; 4. Spending time with monks and spiritual persons; 5. Chanting a mantra repeatedly as one of the ways to reach spirituality; 6. Listening to classical and spiritual music; 7. Performing yoga asanas in a proper manner helps to avoid depression; 8. Talking and discussing spiritual matters with others.
Holistic practitioners say that spiritual or religious practices can help you adjust to the effects as well as side effects of cancer and its treatment. Patients who rely on their faith tend to experience increased hope and optimism, freedom from regret, higher satisfaction with life, and feelings of inner peace. Spirituality may also reduce anxiety, anger and discomfort.
5. Yoga
Originated in ancient India, Yoga typically means ‘union’ between the mind, body and spirit. It involves the practice of physical postures and poses, referred to as ‘asana’ in Sanskrit. As the name suggests, the ultimate aim of practising Yoga is to create a balance between the body and the mind, and to attain self enlightenment. In order to accomplish it, Yoga makes use of asanas, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and meditation. It brings about emotional stability and clarity of mind. Some do yoga recreationally, some do it as a form of exercise, some do it to relax, and some do it as a complementary therapy for cancer. Most of the people diagnosed with cancer opt for Yoga after the treatment. They may not know or be told that Yoga can be practised right from the time of diagnosis.
H.S. Kulkarni 61
Yoga recognised and effective as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of Cancer Yoga is designed to support conventional medical treatment of cancer patients by helping them to manage side effects, both mental and physical. Cancer can cause immense stress and distress to a person. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy usually cause heavy physical side effects. The practice of gentle yoga postures helps strengthen the muscles and joints, thus relieving stress and fatigue. Relief from this condition of stress, along with specific yogic exercises generate positive energy, thus creating a balance between the mind and the body. Used as an adjunct therapy in managing cancer, yoga helps in effectively clearing out toxins accrued. Yoga asanas stimulate not just muscles, but also increases blood flow, balances the glands and enhances the lymphatic flow in the body, all of which enhances the body’s internal purification processes.
The deep, relaxing breathing often emphasized in yoga also increases the current of oxygen-rich blood to the cells, delivering vital nutrients to tired cells.
When can one do Yoga
It is preferable and advisable that cancer patients do Yoga right from the time of diagnosis. Yoga can be done at all stages of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Whatever Yoga asanas and techniques that cancer patients would have to do or practise has to be invariably done under the guidance of a Yoga Practitioner.
Pre treatment :
‘Fear’ is a common factor faced by almost all patients before treatment. Although a patient requires some time to overcome fear, the anxiety associated with fear can be reduced by doing deep breathing practices before chemotherapy / radiation / surgery. During treatment : While the treatment is going on, a patient may be disturbed by thoughts about reactions and side effects; his / her future, finance, career or the family.
62 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
Patients would have to divert their minds from these disturbing thoughts by performing deep breathing exercises while undergoing radiation and chemotherapy.
Post treatment :
Going through cancer treatment may not be easy, and it will take some time for an individual to recoup post treatment. Then, the ‘fear’ of cancer recurrence is always there. This is also a form of stress. But once the treatment is over, the patient will be able to do more Yoga practices. While deep breathing exercises help to relax the mind by reducing stress, Yoga Nidra helps to remove the deep-rooted fear. Once the stress begins to reduce, the patient starts feeling positive. Low immunity is one of the causes of cancer, and Yoga is known to improve the immune system.
6. Care Giver
Care Giver is a familiar face with, and among cancer patients. Care Givers are usually a part of cancer patient’s family, who is available at his / her beck and call. The functional responsibilities of a Care Giver is to help, aid and assist the cancer affected relative in his / her treatment modality, co-ordinating with doctors and para medical staff for consultation and carrying out instructions; organising prescribed medicines; arranging recommended medical tests and procedures; apart from ensuring medicinal intake, food and personal requirements of the patient, with dedication, love and tender care. Many times, the Care Givers are the lifeline of cancer patients. Care Givers have many roles. These roles change as the patient’s needs change during and after cancer treatment.
Family Care Givers provide a complex array of support tasks that extend across physical, psychological, spiritual, and emotional domains. Generally speaking, more women than men become Care Givers, and most Care Givers are related to the person who has cancer. Family caregivers play an important role in the treatment of cancer of their people / patients; hence enlisting their co-operation and including them as the unit of care from the outset are considered critical ingredients to cancer management.
The role of Care Givers is very important. It is certainly not less than that of the attending Doctors. A Care Giver is so chosen, or one who has willingly and spontaneously agreed to be a person, who is going to be with the Patient throughout the treatment period, and post treatment preventive care.
As Care Givers, they have a huge influence – both positive and negative – on how the cancer patient deals with his / her illness. Hence, their encouragement can help the patient stick to a demanding treatment plan and take other steps to get well, like eating healthy meals or getting enough rest. The Care Giver is part of a cancer care team made up of the patient, other family and friends, and the medical staff. Care Givers are problem solvers. The person with cancer faces many new challenges. Care Givers help the patient deal with their challenges, and get through any problems they face.
Tailpiece./div>
Caregivers’ care, concern, reliable and soothing support to their cancer patients will have to extend not only beyond treatment period and remission, but even after becoming totally free from the cancer disease. This is so because patients invariably feel the stamp of cancer on them is permanent, and for the rest of life.
‘Once a Cancerwala, always a Cancerwala’ is what the people and the society say. A cancer affected person becomes a Cancer Patient during treatment; a Cancer Victim if one succumbs to the disease; a Cancer Survivor, if one wins the cancer battle, leading a normal life, writes or publishes his / her cancer battle; and finally a Cancer Fighter if he / she lives long enough after remission to encounter any second life threatening
Chapter 10.
H.S. Kulkarni 65
To the Prasadam, as it was done for our Kulkarni family of Bableshwar. I was asked to enter into the sanctum sanctorum of the temple and sit over there, which I could not due to chronic back pain, but managed to crawl inside, and join all others squatting down for the special prayer.
The Pooja was over after two hours, and I was the first to crawl back from the sanctum sanctorum, without any problem. Everyone was stunned, and so was I equally, but pleasantly surprised to see that I not only crawled and came out, but I could stand up easily, without anyone’s help despite my physical difficulty.
This was the first proof of the faith and belief in the energy that was emanating from the sanctum sanctorum. I slowly bowed down and knelt in front of the door to the sanctum sanctorum from where I could see the idol of Halaganesha.
As for offering obeisance and gratefulness to Guru Raghavendra Swamy, instead of doing so by going to Mantralaya, I went to the Raghavendra Swamy Mutt located at Malmaddi in Dharwad. It gave me a sense of relief and peace, while I prayed and received blessings. While I was in the course of complete remission in my cancer,
I noted that Oncologists and associated Doctors were saying that relapse of cancer is a side effect of the main Chemo, which every cancer survivor has to face or fight with. Thus, cancer survivors have to initially go through a state of anxiety and uncertainty as a follow up measure during the first two years, and subsequently for a period of three years, till the total post treatment period of five years is over.
I accordingly decided to muster my energy to cross this line. Thus, I resolved to reach this goal post of being a cancer fighter, howsoever, difficult it may be.
I thought of the parting instructions given by HCG Oncologist Dr. Radhey Shyam in this context. He had very clearly told us that his responsibility extended beyond the eighth Chemo cycle, and had advised me to take eight more Chemo cycles of Rituximab, one in every 3 months. More particularly, he had told us about the
66 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle Risks and dangers of not doing the follow up Chemotherapy cycles. According to him, some of the patients, who are drained out by the time they complete the recommended Chemotherapy Cycles of treatment, would, or at the most, take a few more Chemo cycles of the prescribed follow up programme, and leave half way through. This could be either because of strain or drain on their finances, or perhaps due to their over confidence. And such patients are prone or vulnerable to relapse; and hence he had advised me not to leave the follow up plan midway.
Caregivers’ care, concern, reliable and soothing support to their cancer patients will have to extend not only beyond treatment period and remission, but even after becoming totally free from the cancer disease. This is so because patients invariably feel the stamp of cancer on them is permanent, and for the rest of life.
‘Once a Cancerwala, always a Cancerwala’ is what the people and the society say. A cancer affected person becomes a Cancer Patient during treatment; a Cancer Victim if one succumbs to the disease; a Cancer Survivor, if one wins the cancer battle, leading a normal life, writes or publishes his / her cancer battle; and finally a Cancer Fighter if he / she lives long enough after remission to encounter any second life threatening
H.S. Kulkarni 63.
Chapter 10.
H.S. Kulkarni 65
To the Prasadam, as it was done for our Kulkarni family of Bableshwar. I was asked to enter into the sanctum sanctorum of the temple and sit over there, which I could not due to chronic back pain, but managed to crawl inside, and join all others squatting down for the special prayer.
The Pooja was over after two hours, and I was the first to crawl back from the sanctum sanctorum, without any problem. Everyone was stunned, and so was I equally, but pleasantly surprised to see that I not only crawled and came out, but I could stand up easily, without anyone’s help despite my physical difficulty.
This was the first proof of the faith and belief in the energy that was emanating from the sanctum sanctorum. I slowly bowed down and knelt in front of the door to the sanctum sanctorum from where I could see the idol of Halaganesha.
As for offering obeisance and gratefulness to Guru Raghavendra Swamy, instead of doing so by going to Mantralaya, I went to the Raghavendra Swamy Mutt located at Malmaddi in Dharwad. It gave me a sense of relief and peace, while I prayed and received blessings. While I was in the course of complete remission in my cancer,
I noted that Oncologists and associated Doctors were saying that relapse of cancer is a side effect of the main Chemo, which every cancer survivor has to face or fight with. Thus, cancer survivors have to initially go through a state of anxiety and uncertainty as a follow up measure during the first two years, and subsequently for a period of three years, till the total post treatment period of five years is over.
I accordingly decided to muster my energy to cross this line. Thus, I resolved to reach this goal post of being a cancer fighter, howsoever, difficult it may be.
I thought of the parting instructions given by HCG Oncologist Dr. Radhey Shyam in this context. He had very clearly told us that his responsibility extended beyond the eighth Chemo cycle, and had advised me to take eight more Chemo cycles of Rituximab, one in every 3 months. More particularly, he had told us about the
66 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle Risks and dangers of not doing the follow up Chemotherapy cycles. According to him, some of the patients, who are drained out by the time they complete the recommended Chemotherapy Cycles of treatment, would, or at the most, take a few more Chemo cycles of the prescribed follow up programme, and leave half way through. This could be either because of strain or drain on their finances, or perhaps due to their over confidence. And such patients are prone or vulnerable to relapse; and hence he had advised me not to leave the follow up plan midway.
Moving on, pursuing and embracing new life, post remission.
It is well known and accepted that cancer is a life changing event, and perhaps a phenomenon to the survivors. By emerging out of the Hospital as a cancer battle winner becomes a high point in life of cancer patients.
Once all the tests are cleared by cancer survivors, the real challenge starts. Because of cancer, their entire life is turned off, and they have to now pick up the threads again, having attained complete remission. Whatever medical treatment is recommended as follow up or preventive care is just 25 % of the part of their life that has to be taken care of. But the remaining part such as regular diet and food intake, schedule of work and plan of activities for being fit and active, would undergo a change.
Their personality and outlook get changed because of the cancer effect. The cancer survivors will have to reset their bio-clock from what it was before. Their wake up time, morning schedules like exercises meditation, yoga and walking would have to change. Looking at life would also change. One may become mellowed, philosophical, spiritual and religious in life, having undergone an unparalleled event, which is no different from the trauma or chill of a near death experience. Hence, the need is to move on, and embrace the new life ahead.
It is well known and accepted that cancer is a life changing event, and perhaps a phenomenon to the survivors. By emerging out of the Hospital as a cancer battle winner becomes a high point in life of cancer patients.
Once all the tests are cleared by cancer survivors, the real challenge starts. Because of cancer, their entire life is turned off, and they have to now pick up the threads again, having attained complete remission. Whatever medical treatment is recommended as follow up or preventive care is just 25 % of the part of their life that has to be taken care of. But the remaining part such as regular diet and food intake, schedule of work and plan of activities for being fit and active, would undergo a change.
Their personality and outlook get changed because of the cancer effect. The cancer survivors will have to reset their bio-clock from what it was before. Their wake up time, morning schedules like exercises meditation, yoga and walking would have to change. Looking at life would also change. One may become mellowed, philosophical, spiritual and religious in life, having undergone an unparalleled event, which is no different from the trauma or chill of a near death experience. Hence, the need is to move on, and embrace the new life ahead.
Thus, the question or challenge before me was how to be active
and remain occupied apart from the compulsions of resetting my
bio-clock and rescheduling my activities and work, which cancer
survivors are usually confronted with. I thought of planning and doing
things, activities and work of my choice and liking, while doing my
professional work cum business to a limited extent, besides pursuing
my drawing and painting hobbies. All these activities being volitional
and of a honorary nature, would be at my terms without expecting
anything, but giving me a sense of satisfaction, and away from the post
cancer remission mundane.
Among several activities and proposals that came to my mind, I hit upon the thought of firstly developing guidelines for aftercare of cancer survivors, and secondly, pursuing a plan of travelling and visiting tourist places and shrines during this period.
Opportunity of sharing Story of Winning Cancer Battle at a National Seminar, Coincidently, one of the earliest opportunities I got to come out during the post remission period was of sharing my story of fighting and winning the cancer battle at a National Seminar on Management of Cancer. This professional event was organised by Indian Society of Health Administrators, with my friend and colleague J.S. Pant, as a Seminar Co-ordinator. It was held on 23rd September 2012 at the Taj Vivanta Hotel, Bangalore. I was invited to the Seminar along with three other cancer battle winners to narrate our success stories. The objective of bringing cancaer battle winners on the stage was not only to enable delegates to appreciate the saga and triumph of cancer patients in their battle against the disease, but to felicitate and honour them for their inspiring example.
I was indeed overwhelmed to be one of the four honoured cancer battle winners at this all India professional event ; the other three being Dr. Keerti Tewari, a Medical Doctor and Civil Servant ; Mr. V. Amar Bhaskar, a top executive with IBM ; and Mr. Shiva Kumar, an Advocate and Consultant ; with all of them being from Bangalore. It gave me a degree or sense of satisfaction, recognition and elation for sharing my story of winning battle against cancer at a national seminar. Back in Dharwad,
I started looking for some good Doctor for my follow up of preventive care consisting of eight Rituximab IV Injections that I had to take for the next two years ; that is four per year, with one in every three months. There is a Cancer Hospital at Dharwad, where most cancer patients in and around Dharwad come for treatment. It is attached to the Karnataka Govt. Cancer Research Institute, situated at Navanagar, Hubli. We met a senior Oncologist in Dr. A.C. Deka at this Hospital, who examined me, and agreed to have the post treatment preventive care with Chemo cycles duly and effectively arranged.
We then came to know that a visiting Medical Oncologist to this Hospital was Dr. Kiran Kattimani, who had earlier worked with HCG Cancer Centre at Bangalore, and knew Dr. Jagannath Dixit as well as Dr. Radhey Shyam well enough, and I thought there will be some kind of continuity in my follow up treatment. As Dr. Kattimani had wide experience of attending to cancer survivors personally and effectively, I decided to go with him for my preventive care.
Dr. Kiran Kattimani was known to administer the IV Rituximab Chemo to his patients at Sushruta Hospital, Hubli to which he was attached. The Chemo preventive care was going to take about 3 to 4 hours for each session. Here too, I used to take Chemo for three hours sitting only, because I did not like being seen as sick, when I was fit and healthy. Dr. Kattimani was helpful and considerate ; he even saw to it that patients are not burdened with avoidable medicines and procedures. By the way, he got the incentivised discount on Rituximab injections for me.
During one of the eight follow up Chemo cycles, I was sitting on the chair by the side of a bed at Sushruta Hospital, with the Rituximab Chemo trickling drop by drop in my body, and I was reading my favorite Book, “Savitri” by Aurobindo. At that time, Dr. Kattimani happened to drop in. Even before he could say anything, I asked him impulsively, ‘How are you Doctor ?’ Dr. Kattimani burst into laughter, and said,
70 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle “This is the first time in my life as a doctor, that a patient is asking me how I am, whereas I came here to attend our patient”. He further said : “Looking at your spirits, I feel the monkey on your back has run away long back, and you do not have to worry about your shoulders”. Incidentally, and as God willed, I completed the 8th follow up Rituximab IVs successfully within two years of my attaining remission, without any kind of side effects or reactions. Once, all the preventive Chemo Cycles were over,
I was advised to take a PET Scan. The PET Scan showed no presence of any malignancy, and the SUVs at all points were nil. Thus, both Dr. Deka and Dr. Kattimani were very pleased and happy about my health status. They advised me that after this virtual final Test, I had to get myself tested once in six months only, till I complete the period of five years from remission. With this, the second phase of treatment was over, and I entered into the third and final Observation Phase. Guidelines for Aftercare of Cancer Survivors
Simultaneously, I began identifying, studying and trying out the different as well as the unexplored or less known modalities of containing and overcoming cancer from among the alternative medicines or holistic science. I found that there are good options in the complementary and alternative medicines, which contribute to preventing relapse or recurrence of cancer of different types. From the ones available, and that I heard of, I studied, tested and used them,
I experienced the salutary and positive effect they had on me, as a cancer survivor. I found out, realised and noted that a cancer survivor opting for alternative medicines, would have to change and accept four critical paths or areas for maintaining health and remaining free from, or unaffected by, cancer. These are : 1. Food Habits :
One has to select the food, the fruits and the greens that give added strength, immunity, blood chemistry enhancement and add the much required Laetrile / Amygdalin element in the body bio to enable you to fight recurrence or relapse of cancer.
Once the conventional treatment is over, cancer survivors need herbal nutritional support for improvement in the following areas : Blood Quality improvement : With the Hb % and CBC chart having become poor immediately after the conventional treatment, sufficient attention is required to be given for improving the Hb percentage and platelet count.
Among several activities and proposals that came to my mind, I hit upon the thought of firstly developing guidelines for aftercare of cancer survivors, and secondly, pursuing a plan of travelling and visiting tourist places and shrines during this period.
Opportunity of sharing Story of Winning Cancer Battle at a National Seminar, Coincidently, one of the earliest opportunities I got to come out during the post remission period was of sharing my story of fighting and winning the cancer battle at a National Seminar on Management of Cancer. This professional event was organised by Indian Society of Health Administrators, with my friend and colleague J.S. Pant, as a Seminar Co-ordinator. It was held on 23rd September 2012 at the Taj Vivanta Hotel, Bangalore. I was invited to the Seminar along with three other cancer battle winners to narrate our success stories. The objective of bringing cancaer battle winners on the stage was not only to enable delegates to appreciate the saga and triumph of cancer patients in their battle against the disease, but to felicitate and honour them for their inspiring example.
I was indeed overwhelmed to be one of the four honoured cancer battle winners at this all India professional event ; the other three being Dr. Keerti Tewari, a Medical Doctor and Civil Servant ; Mr. V. Amar Bhaskar, a top executive with IBM ; and Mr. Shiva Kumar, an Advocate and Consultant ; with all of them being from Bangalore. It gave me a degree or sense of satisfaction, recognition and elation for sharing my story of winning battle against cancer at a national seminar. Back in Dharwad,
I started looking for some good Doctor for my follow up of preventive care consisting of eight Rituximab IV Injections that I had to take for the next two years ; that is four per year, with one in every three months. There is a Cancer Hospital at Dharwad, where most cancer patients in and around Dharwad come for treatment. It is attached to the Karnataka Govt. Cancer Research Institute, situated at Navanagar, Hubli. We met a senior Oncologist in Dr. A.C. Deka at this Hospital, who examined me, and agreed to have the post treatment preventive care with Chemo cycles duly and effectively arranged.
We then came to know that a visiting Medical Oncologist to this Hospital was Dr. Kiran Kattimani, who had earlier worked with HCG Cancer Centre at Bangalore, and knew Dr. Jagannath Dixit as well as Dr. Radhey Shyam well enough, and I thought there will be some kind of continuity in my follow up treatment. As Dr. Kattimani had wide experience of attending to cancer survivors personally and effectively, I decided to go with him for my preventive care.
Dr. Kiran Kattimani was known to administer the IV Rituximab Chemo to his patients at Sushruta Hospital, Hubli to which he was attached. The Chemo preventive care was going to take about 3 to 4 hours for each session. Here too, I used to take Chemo for three hours sitting only, because I did not like being seen as sick, when I was fit and healthy. Dr. Kattimani was helpful and considerate ; he even saw to it that patients are not burdened with avoidable medicines and procedures. By the way, he got the incentivised discount on Rituximab injections for me.
During one of the eight follow up Chemo cycles, I was sitting on the chair by the side of a bed at Sushruta Hospital, with the Rituximab Chemo trickling drop by drop in my body, and I was reading my favorite Book, “Savitri” by Aurobindo. At that time, Dr. Kattimani happened to drop in. Even before he could say anything, I asked him impulsively, ‘How are you Doctor ?’ Dr. Kattimani burst into laughter, and said,
70 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle “This is the first time in my life as a doctor, that a patient is asking me how I am, whereas I came here to attend our patient”. He further said : “Looking at your spirits, I feel the monkey on your back has run away long back, and you do not have to worry about your shoulders”. Incidentally, and as God willed, I completed the 8th follow up Rituximab IVs successfully within two years of my attaining remission, without any kind of side effects or reactions. Once, all the preventive Chemo Cycles were over,
I was advised to take a PET Scan. The PET Scan showed no presence of any malignancy, and the SUVs at all points were nil. Thus, both Dr. Deka and Dr. Kattimani were very pleased and happy about my health status. They advised me that after this virtual final Test, I had to get myself tested once in six months only, till I complete the period of five years from remission. With this, the second phase of treatment was over, and I entered into the third and final Observation Phase. Guidelines for Aftercare of Cancer Survivors
Simultaneously, I began identifying, studying and trying out the different as well as the unexplored or less known modalities of containing and overcoming cancer from among the alternative medicines or holistic science. I found that there are good options in the complementary and alternative medicines, which contribute to preventing relapse or recurrence of cancer of different types. From the ones available, and that I heard of, I studied, tested and used them,
I experienced the salutary and positive effect they had on me, as a cancer survivor. I found out, realised and noted that a cancer survivor opting for alternative medicines, would have to change and accept four critical paths or areas for maintaining health and remaining free from, or unaffected by, cancer. These are : 1. Food Habits :
One has to select the food, the fruits and the greens that give added strength, immunity, blood chemistry enhancement and add the much required Laetrile / Amygdalin element in the body bio to enable you to fight recurrence or relapse of cancer.
The following should be generally part of cancer survivor’s food
palette :
1. All types of Millet Foods
2. Fruits generally having pulp in yellow, orange or red in colour
3. Green vegetables, carrots, tomatoes, berries and guava to be taken.
2. Herbal Support :
Once the conventional treatment is over, cancer survivors need herbal nutritional support for improvement in the following areas : Blood Quality improvement : With the Hb % and CBC chart having become poor immediately after the conventional treatment, sufficient attention is required to be given for improving the Hb percentage and platelet count.
To attain these results, the cancer survivors need to take:
(1)150 ml of Wheat Grass Juice in the morning on empty stomach (2)Crush 5 Neem Leaves, 5 Tulsi (Black Basil) Leaves and 5 Bel leaves,
and gulp them early in the morning.
(3)Along with the above two herbal intake, one has to take herbal Kashaya of Simarouba Gluca in the morning. (4)Make it a regular daily habit to Chew 7/8 Apricot Seeds / Apple Seeds / Papaya Seeds before breakfast, afternoon lunch and evening dinner. (Apricot Kernels, Apple Seeds, Berry Seeds, Papaya Seeds contain higher quantity of Laetrile) (5)Adapting and getting used to these food habits would facilitate in improving blood chemistry, enhancement of immunity, developing appetite, in addition to providing the much needed antibiotics to fight infections.
Apart from the above, add the following items to your daily schedule: a) Take one teaspoon of Honey + 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda (mixed well) every day before going to bed. This will augment the alkalizing effect to your blood Ph, which should be above 7 and below 9.
b) Take 2 dates before going to bed. This will enable you to maintain high levels of Hb, and act as good sleep inducing agent.
3. Change Bio Clock : This is best done by tuning your Bio Clock to synchronize with optimum levels of availability of :
a) Oxygen in the atmosphere
b) Exposure to sunlight for increasing Vitamin D level in your system.
It is relevant to note that air in the atmosphere contains 40 % more of oxygen between 4. 00 am and 6.00 am early morning. Nature Walking at the above time interval would facilitate physical exercise, relaxation to mind and higher levels of oxygen in the blood circulation system.
4. Meditation :
After the morning walk for about one hour, select a silent and peaceful place in your house, and do any type of meditation for about 20 minutes.
Welcome Change by travelling to Tourist Places and Pilgrim Centres, starting with Visit to Vaishnodevi Shrine In the first quarter after the Chemotherapy treatment was over, my brother Jayakumar and I along with our spouses decided to visit the Vaishnodevi shrine. It was rainy season, but we were keen to be there in the Himalayas to visit the Devi Temple, and enjoy the rain in the hills.
We took flight from Mumbai to Delhi, and onward to Jammu via Srinagar.. From Jammu we reached Katra by Taxi, and stayed overnight at a Hotel there. Next day early morning we decided to climb the hill with the help of Pallaki Carriers. Intermittently, we went by foot, and the journey became enjoyable, with rain and cold wind, which added to the thrill. After having Darshan, we returned to Katra base Hotel, and decided to visit some more places the next morning.
We went to a place called Dhansar Baba Cave. Initially, I thought I could not reach this place. From the Hilltop where we were, we could not even see the cave; but when we enquired with a shopkeeper there, we were told that the cave was just about 12 steps down the slope. We decided to climb down, but as we proceeded we found that we had to cover 225 steps to reach the cave, which was just above the bank of river Tavi.
Initially, Jayakumar told me to rest half way, and he would go down and return. But I decided to take the test, and see the cave, nothing could stop me. We ultimately climbed down. It was worth the effort; there was a small waterfall where ice was gradually melting, with droplets falling on the Shivalinga below. This was happening for ages non-stop. A wonderful sight. I said Jai Cancer Baba ! And started climbing to the top. Believe it or not, I was the first to reach the top. So much for my determination and endurance. I must say it was a wonderful feeling of having truly won the race with the monkey on my back, at my 70 plus age. This outing definitely helped me to have a welcome change from the thought of cancer care all the time.
As cancer survivors, we must enlarge, escalate and extend our activities as well as involvements in several areas and things other than the routine, which definitely would help in preventing any possibility of cancer making a comeback. Mind remains fresh and positive as long as you engage it in new things, new places and new activities. Our journey continued and we were at Jammu for two days. Visited most of the temples and historical places.
When I found that the travel and tour programme helped me in diverting my mind from the tenacious fight against cancer post remission, and opening of fresh windows to do so many good things in life, I decided to have such touring and travelling on an ongoing basis for the period of five years after my cancer remission. Our next outing or tour was to the Gir Forests in Gujarat, and visit to Dwarkanath Temple at Dwaraka. We stayed at Mahindra Holiday
74 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
Homes during our Gir visit, and enjoyed the complete visit inside the forest to have a first glimpse of the Gir Lions roaming free in the open. Dwaraka visit was a religious tempered one. We visited Dwaraka and the surrounding places.
Porbunder was another location which we covered, where we saw the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. Within striking distance thereof, we visited the enchanting places Sudama Temple and Sandeepani Ashram, where we had real quality time out.
Thus, the second visit further reinforced my belief that such tours not only enlarge our horizons, but help in relaxing, which have a direct impact on our mind for being more positive, and less stressed.
This programme was followed by our trip to Sri Lanka. It was for seven days of relaxation and education. The Buddhist culture impressed us so much when we saw the relics of Buddha in the Buddha Temple.
The place where Sita was kept as a prisoner, the Ashok Vana and the Hanuman Temple were all enchanting. Our next visit was to Mauritius, where we had lot of watersports to enjoy. Attention to cleanliness and hygiene on the one hand, whereas according primacy and priority to education did impress us very much. Similar was our exciting and exhilarating experience in our trips to other north eastern Asian countries Bali and Malaysia.
The main purpose of stressing that cancer survivors have to tour and travel is to enable them to fly free and enjoy; turn it into positivity; and bring them closer to spiritualism. Then, one will be successful in joining the mind and the body, since coordination of mind and body is very important in fighting any type of inner enemy.
Researchers have linked positive emotions, especially the awe we feel when touched by the beauty of nature, art and spirituality - to lower levels of inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that signal the immune system to work harder.
I had decided to travel around the world; enjoy and celebrate life as much as possible during the course of my five year marathon period for finally emerging as being totally free from cancer. At every stage I had to ensure that the defeated cancer in me remained tired, weak and disabled. The complementary and alternative medicines as well as their methods helped me a lot in enhancing my endurance. I was constantly on the move, as I wanted to cover more and more places and locations, thereby seeing and enjoying much much more.
During the earlier part of our marathon journey in a little over four years after attaining complete remission, we covered the Himalayan region, Vaishno Devi, Dhansar Baba, Gir Forest, Dwaraka, Porbunder, and finally visited Srilanka, Mauritius, Bali and Malaysia. And to make sure that my health condition was good enough, I used to get myself checked twice in a year. I found that my Blood Tests, X Ray, Ultrasonography and at times PET Scans were well within the normal range.
Our visit to South Africa and Kenya was the extreme test of my planned preparedness and immunity cum endurance levels at one shot. I decided to visit South Africa as also the neighbouring Kenya, taking a much longer journey comprising almost 28 hours of flight time between Mumbai and Port Elizabeth via Nairobi and Johannesburg ! We reached Port Elizabeth after a very long and tiresome journey, but yet ready to take up more. The same evening we had to visit the Port before retiring. The next part of our programme was visiting Blaukrans Bridge, where we had the excitement of doing bungee jump of 220 meter deep down the valley.
The most challenging event was still to come. The Congo Caves of six halls covered approximately 650 steps. Our Guide and my brother looked at me in stark disbelief, and wondering whether I would prefer to wait down the hill till they finished the visit. But my mind was not willing to this proposition. Neither wanted to go back, nor gave up, I decided to submit myself to the test and challenge. I wanted to climb and visit all the six halls of Congo Caves.
The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
I remember during the previous visits, I had tested my body endurance by climbing 250 steps at Dhansar in the Himalayas, and 300 steps at Malaysia. Now I raised the level to 650 steps to beat my earlier records. It was no doubt tough and challenging.
Thrilling experience. With God’s grace, I completed the climb, and visited the six halls of the caves with all others. The act of climbing down had left my guide exclaiming that hardly anybody of my age dares to do it.
The next course of our action plan was a real surprise and unbelievable : befriending the wildest. Not even the dreaded cancer can be as dangerous and frightening. Instead of describing the live thrill, I would prefer my unusual speaking photo, caressing the wildest of the wild animals in the collections at the end of this Part:One of this book.
Our next outing was more dangerous, but full of thrill and challenge. This was Masai Mara National Park, where we spent four days in the deep jungle amidst wild life. Daily morning we started by 5 am, and would be on the move till 7 pm taking many rounds of the forest hundreds of kilometers in search of wildlife --- African Elephants, Zebras in thousands, Giraffes, Lions, Leopards, Wild Bisons, Rhinos and much much more. Life for us was on the wire during those breathtaking and wondrous moments..
We returned to our pavilion at Dharwad after completing the marathon, with the last lap of our tour being amidst the wildlife in South Africa and Kenya. I got a total health check up done along with the recommended lab tests as advised by our family doctor, which showed me in the best of health and renewed vigour. Hip, hip, hurrah !
The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle
I remember during the previous visits, I had tested my body endurance by climbing 250 steps at Dhansar in the Himalayas, and 300 steps at Malaysia. Now I raised the level to 650 steps to beat my earlier records. It was no doubt tough and challenging. Thrilling experience. With God’s grace, I completed the climb, and visited the six halls of the caves with all others. The act of climbing down had left my guide exclaiming that hardly anybody of my age dares to do it.
The next course of our action plan was a real surprise and unbelievable : befriending the wildest. Not even the dreaded cancer can be as dangerous and frightening. Instead of describing the live thrill, I would prefer my unusual speaking photo, caressing the wildest of the wild animals in the collections at the end of this Part:One of this book.
Our next outing was more dangerous, but full of thrill and challenge. This was Masai Mara National Park, where we spent four days in the deep jungle amidst wild life. Daily morning we started by 5 am, and would be on the move till 7 pm taking many rounds of the forest hundreds of kilometers in search of wildlife --- African Elephants, Zebras in thousands, Giraffes, Lions, Leopards, Wild Bisons, Rhinos and much much more. Life for us was on the wire during those breathtaking and wondrous moments..
We returned to our pavilion at Dharwad after completing the marathon, with the last lap of our tour being amidst the wildlife in South Africa and Kenya. I got a total health check up done along with the recommended lab tests as advised by our family doctor, which showed me in the best of health and renewed vigour. Hip, hip, hurrah !
Transformative Journey of Cancer Battle Winner to Guiding Others in Containing and Managing Cancer, with Hopestar MANTRA, supported by illustrative cases.
I must say the cancer in me has taught some lessons. For, I went through the trials and tribulations as a cancer patient under conventional or mainstream medicine; took the crucial Chemotherapy treatment, and ultimately attained complete remission. However, I silently and helplessly faced and experienced the devastating impact of cancer treatment on my health and condition physically, mentally and financially.
Then, I had to come to terms with the cumulative side effects of Chemotherapy. While conventional medicine attempts to treat and address cancer, the treatment by itself does not offer or assure of cure or lasting solution, but at best it would be complete remission.
However, it comes with a caveat : aftercare and preventive treatment are absolutely necessary, without which there is a probability of relapse or recurrence of cancer. Thus, the question of cancer patients becoming totally free from the dreaded disease has remained academic or surreal. In such a scenario, the expression or word ‘cure’ may not be appropriate or forthcoming with respect to cancer. At best, as Oncologists say, cancer can be managed or controlled.
Even in my case, it was said that since my prognosis was good, I stood good chance of coming under the category of manageable cases. If the treatment modality or method works, the relief or recovery is a distinct possibility. Otherwise, the system gives up, and the patient will not know where to go. This apart, conventional or mainstream treatment is neither affordable nor acceptable to large sections of the society, particularly the poor, the indigent and the lower middle class.
Only those who can afford, or who are covered by hefty insurance, or opt for Govt. health schemes or subsidy from social organisations go in for conventional treatment. But what happens to the rest - the large majority of the poor and lower middle class, who will even find it hard to meet the costs of cancer diagnostic tests. Thus today, only those who cannot afford or those who have been turned away by Cancer Hospitals with conventional medicine approach complementary and alternative medicines.
Against this background and scenario, I embarked on the journey of exploring, learning and pursuing the complementary, alternative and integrative medicines or modalities of treatment for addressing and fighting cancer at low or affordable cost, and without having to suffer the collateral damage that is usually associated with conventional medicine.
In my relentless search and quest for an option or alternative modality to conventional medicine for fighting and managing cancer, I found more and more people affected with cancer willing to look for affordable or optional treatment modalities, which do not cause collateral damage to the human body and mind.A Comparative chart of Features / Factors in Conventional Medicine vis-a-vis Alternative Medicine in Treatment of Cancer is presented here Sl. No.Criteria Conventional. Treatent Methods Alternative Treatment Options 1. Why patients do not approach alternative treatment options directly once diag- nosed for Cancer? Treatment methods are well established. Visi- bility of the system is good, big hospitals, ad- vertisements in print and visual media etc. Majority of the patients do not know that alternative medicines exist at the time of diagnosis.Silently practiced by local healthcare practitioners in remote places. Not advertised. No books. No scientific data. 2 - Pathological and Radiological investigations Pathological (including hormonal and marker studies) and radiolog- ical investigations are resorted to confirm the broad clinical diagnosis and thereafter specific diagnosis. Practitioners of al- ternative systems de- pend on symptoms and signs to diagnose malignant conditions. Referrals for modern pathological or radio- logical tests, basic or advanced are far and few because diagno- sis is basically clinical one, & practitioners are not formally trained in the systems. 80 The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle 3 Treatment modali- ties Chemotherapy Radio Therapy Surgery Other Modalities Treatment modality, one or more, are cho- sen depending on the organ affected, and progress of the disease. Ayurveda Yoga Unani Siddha Homoeopathy Herbal Acupressure Naturopathy 4 Treatment Aggressive and some- times invasive. Various modes of administra- tion of drugs. Oral administration of medicines, taking healing foods, press- ing acupoints, and a slow process. 5 Side effects Considerable side ef- fects due to chemo drugs and radiotherapy also acting on normal tissues No known or re- ported side effects, mainly because med- icines taken orally & medicinal foods con- sumed. 6 After effects After effects may re- main for an extended period. Zero after effects; none reported. 7 Treatment cost Extremely high and expensive unless sub- sidized. Many patients sell their assets or bor- row to meet treatment costs unless supported by health insurance. Affordable and low because medicines, practices and healing foods sourced from traditional methods and natural sources 8 Duration of treat- ment. Generally chemothera- py and radiotherapy are cycle and dose specific. Duration varies from case-to-case basis, de- pending on treatment modality. Cannot be specifi- cally laid down. in chronic cases, it is variable and some- what slower H.S. Kulkarni 81 10 Relief offered Relief possible when diagnosed early and treated to become disease free. In advanced cases, the treatment is palliative. In most cases, pa- tients approach alter- native options only after failure of con- ventional treatment. This is primarly be- cause data does not exist on management of malignancies. Al- ternative systems are considered as a “last resort”! 11 Cure If the patient remains free from disease, then it is complete remis- sion, but for practi- cal purposes, cancer is controlled and managed. Not specified. How- ever, feel good factor arising from proper functioning of all sys- tems in the body is the norm. 12 Survival rate Depends on type of malignancy, organ affected, and at what stage the disease was detected.Not assessed 13 Development of system of treatment Well organized, re- search conducted on scientific lines and re- corded. Conferences conducted regularly for updates.AYUSH and Foun- dation for Revival of Local Health Tradi- tions (FRLHT) are promoting the cause, but support system is not active. Only gen- eral qualified Vaidya or Homeo doctors treat malignancies. The MANTRA for Winning Cancer Battle 14 Research, Preserva- tion, and protection Well organized. Formu- lations are protected by strict patent laws pro- viding financial security for the Pharma com- panies who have de- veloped the molecules. Scientifically developed and tested drugs re- leased only after suc- cessful clinical trials. Traditionally devel- oped. Many a time handed down from families, and practised by word of mouth.
The source for the arrival is by the Book on this subject written by Sri.H.S.Kulkarni whose address is given in the book.
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