Rajkot (Gujarat) [India]: Over 3000 cancer warriors from across Gujarat, along with their families, gathered for a unique Garba event in Rajkot. For the first time in the country, these cancer fighters danced together, sending a powerful message that cancer is not the end; it can be overcome. With joy and energy, they celebrated life and worshiped Goddess Durga, showing that life after cancer is possible. As one young cancer warrior, who was diagnosed with blood cancer at the age of five, said, “I lost everything to the disease, but today I am dancing Garba with happiness.”
Cancer Warriors Navratri Festival 2024
To raise awareness about cancer and encourage the strength and enthusiasm of cancer warriors, Cancer Care Foundation, in collaboration with Club UV, organized the ‘Cancer Warriors Navratri Festival 2024’. This event, graced by the special presence of Saint Morari Bapu, saw more than 3000 cancer warriors coming together to showcase their fighting spirit and determination in overcoming the disease.
“I Underwent 7 Surgeries and Chemotherapy”
Parika Chauhan, a 24-year-old cancer warrior, shared her story: “I was 14 when I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. I had seven surgeries and multiple chemotherapy sessions. After battling this for nearly five years, I came out of it with the blessings of Goddess Durga. Fighting cancer is not the most challenging part; it’s harder to return to normal life after being cured.”
“Don’t Complain About Small Things”
Parika added, “Seeing so many cancer warriors together, who have all been through the same situation, gives us inspiration, and we can inspire others too. This Garba celebration is an emotional moment for us. We get to enjoy life and the platform we have today. My message to everyone is to stop complaining about small things. Live life fully and appreciate it, as good health is a precious gift from nature.”
Diagnosed with Blood Cancer at Age 5
Mahak Panjwani, who was diagnosed with blood cancer at the tender age of five, shared her difficult journey: “When I was first diagnosed, my condition was critical, and doctors said I wouldn’t survive. My family went through unimaginable hardships. After coming out of cancer, people avoided us, thinking that their children might also get cancer. My parents were even denied a place to stay. We lost everything to the disease, but today, we are full of joy, dancing Garba together.”
This inspiring event was not just a celebration but also a reminder that life after cancer is possible, and with determination, even the toughest battles can be won.
