Actress Manisha Koirala was diagnosed with cancer in 2012. She openly documented her journey on social media, sharing her struggles, moments of hope, and determination to fight the disease. After successfully completing her treatment in the US, she was declared cancer-free in 2015. Since then, Manisha has become an advocate for cancer awareness. She also penned a memoir, Healed: How Cancer Gave Me a New Life, where she detailed her journey from diagnosis to recovery and how the experience transformed her perspective on life.
On World Cancer Day, Manisha opens up about the challenges cancer patients face in India and how they can be addressed. She also talks about the critical role of government initiatives, financial aid, and awareness campaigns in ensuring that cancer care reaches those who need it the most.
The actress, who is a part of the Impact Foundation at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital, lauds the dedication of doctors working tirelessly for patients. However, she believes that similar standards of care and commitment should be maintained across all cancer hospitals in the country. “We need more cancer funds, insurance schemes, and government-backed initiatives to support financially weaker patients,” she stresses.
Highlighting the devastating financial burden cancer treatment imposes on families, she shared stories of individuals who have sold their homes and land in desperate attempts to save loved ones. “Cancer treatment is unpredictable—there are no guarantees. Families not only lose their loved ones but are often left with nothing,” she says, urging authorities to create a dedicated cancer fund that ensures resources reach underprivileged patients, rather than being misused by the wealthy.
Beyond financial aid, she advocates for increased emotional and psychological support for families dealing with loss due to cancer. “People need guidance, counseling, and a support system to cope with the grief of losing a loved one. We must focus on preventing cancer by promoting body, mind, and spiritual well-being. Unhealthy diets, pollution, chemicals, and radiation exposure are contributing to rising cases. Awareness programs at the government level should emphasize a healthy lifestyle as the first line of defense,” she notes.
Role of Film Industry in Cancer Awareness
Manisha believes Bollywood might play an important role in spreading awareness. “If 10 to 20 actors actively speak about health, not just bodybuilding but holistic well-being, it can have a massive impact. Media and the entertainment industry should collaborate to educate people,” she states.
Beyond Monetary Donations: How Citizens Can Help
While financial contributions are essential, Manisha points out that individual efforts alone cannot cover the high costs of cancer treatment. She encouraged people to support patients through volunteering, raising awareness, and pushing for better policies. “Cancer care should not just be about money; it’s about empathy, education, and creating a robust healthcare system that prioritises those in need,” she says.
