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"All it really takes," explains Dr Jagannath, "is awareness. Most cancers are
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curable if detected early. But most people don't heed the subtle warning signs
our bodies send us because they don't know. Believe me, in most cases, the
body does send warning signals."
Treatment for cancer is expensive and many patients cannot even dream of
covering the costs. Often, Dr Jagannath foregoes his consultation fees; at times,
he even waives his surgical fees. "But there are still the cost of the drugs and
the hospital overheads to be considered. That is when the donors come into the
picture," he says.
"What I have realised over the years is that the ordinary man -- more than
corporates and financial institutions -- wants to help. He may not be able to
afford much, but that is not the issue. He doesn't want to donate to an
organisation; he wants to donate to people. He may be able to put in only Rs
2,000. Another person puts in Rs 5,000. Soon, there is enough money for the
full-fledged treatment of one cancer patient. I want to see those kind of links
happening and prospering."
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gives him a special sense of
satisfaction. He says C-kids
(courageous kids who conquered
cancer) will surprise you with their
zest for life and bubby nature.
"We had the Lagaan [ Images ]
[actors who acted in Ashutosh
Gowarik er's [ Images ] Oscar-nominated film] team over last September. There
was a cricket match between the C-Kids team and the Lagaan team. The kids
won. Their day was made. They had a drawing competition later. Those
paintings were made into cards. My kids went around selling the cards and they
were so thrilled they could make some money."
Dr Jagannath knows he is merely touching the tip of the iceberg. "I know finance
is a crunch to make these plans to come through. People have asked me to
advertise. If I had that kind of money, I would rather spend it on my patients. But
I have faith. If your focus is genuine and sincere, people will come to you. There
is enough goodness in our country. All I have to do is tap it."
Sita Menon
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