Cancer Survivors Take Center Stage at Tata Mumbai Marathon
Two inspiring individuals shared their stories of hope and resilience at the Tata Mumbai Marathon this Sunday. Neha Ram and Anup Dhuria, both cancer survivors, participated in the Dream Run's Run in Costume category. They aimed to celebrate sporting legends and raise crucial awareness about cancer.
Personal Journeys of Strength
Neha Ram, now 33 and living in Mumbai, received a blood cancer diagnosis while in Class IX. She faced persistent fever, weakness, and significant financial constraints during her treatment. Originally from Patna, Neha confronted the disease with remarkable optimism. She is currently pursuing her graduation while working in the city.
"It was sometime in 2005 when doctors diagnosed me with blood cancer," Neha recalled. "My parents went through their own stress as we faced financial difficulties but their love and support never wavered. This journey has taught me to stay strong and positive and with hope, survival is possible."
Anup Dhuria, a 30-year-old commercial artist from Ayodhya now based in Mumbai, was diagnosed with blood cancer at just 12 years old. "My body had become very sick. But soon I learned that I had to be patient and also happy," he said, reflecting on his early battle with the illness.
Symbolic Costumes Deliver Powerful Message
The duo made a striking appearance together on stage. Neha dressed as the legendary Rani Laxmibai, complete with sword and shield. Her costume symbolized a fierce, ongoing battle against cancer. Anup chose a crab costume, directly representing the disease itself. Their outfits visually communicated their personal struggles and triumphs.
CPAA's Sustained Commitment to Cancer Care
The Cancer Patients Aid Association has worked for over five decades to bridge critical gaps in cancer care. The organization operates with deep compassion, credibility, and commitment. CPAA provides holistic, long-term support that addresses both medical and non-medical needs.
This support includes financial assistance for treatment, nutritional aid, counseling for patients and caregivers, prostheses, rehabilitation aids, and end-of-life care. A visible symbol of CPAA's unwavering dedication is its continuous participation in the Tata Mumbai Marathon since 2004.
Through this platform, CPAA has successfully mobilized thousands of runners, donors, volunteers, and corporate partners. These efforts raise vital awareness and generate essential funds for cancer patients across the country.
Alka Sapru Bisen, CEO of the Cancer Patients Aid Association, emphasized the event's significance. "For CPAA, the marathon is far more than a race — it is a movement that brings together changemakers who run with purpose and act with heart," she stated.
Pune Survivors Showcase Endurance on the Track
From Pune, several cancer survivors participated in the full and half marathon events. Sonia Soman, a 52-year-old IT professional who runs a software product firm, stood out among them. Diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 31, Soman took up endurance running after completing her treatment.
She had previously run multiple 10-kilometer races. At this event, she completed her sixth half marathon, covering 21.07 kilometers in 2 hours and 55 minutes. Veteran Ironman Kaustubh Radkar, who coached Soman and several other athletes, praised her dedication on social media.
"When preparation is honest, the body and mind respond even on the toughest days," Radkar wrote.
For Soman, life is about taking things one day at a time. "I decided to start running at the age of 41 to celebrate ten years in remission," she explained. "At one point, I was told about the potential side effects of my medication which could affect lung power, so I chose to take up endurance running. Later, I trained with Coach Radkar who explained the importance of recognizing one’s limits and not pushing too far. Of course, this was all after checking my health parameters. What has also helped me is staying positive and maintaining regular exercise."
The Tata Mumbai Marathon continues to serve as a powerful platform for survivors to share their stories. It fosters a community of support and highlights the critical work of organizations like CPAA. Each participant's journey underscores a universal message of hope, resilience, and the possibility of triumph over adversity.
