“Sonali Bendre has cancer”–This was the WhatsApp message sent to me by a friend. We shared messages feeling sympathetic with the actor and wishing her a speedy recovery.
The exchange got me thinking about how social media works though. We put so much of ourselves out there – sometimes for good and sometimes not.
In a very moving statement, Sonali says, “Sometimes when you least expect it, life throws you a curveball. I have recently been diagnosed with high-grade cancer that has metastasized, which we frankly did not see coming. A niggling pain led to some tests, which led to this unexpected diagnosis. My family and close friends have rallied around me, providing the best support system that anyone can ask for. I am very blessed and thankful for each of them.”
Following this tweet, her friends from the industry have come out in support and wished her the best as she fights cancer.
Less than a month ago, Irrfan Khan tweeted about the ‘rare disease’ that he had.
— Irrfan (@irrfank) March 16, 2018
He spoke of how the unexpected helps us grow as individuals. The actor was very forthcoming in sharing information about his treatment and has since been receiving immense support and wishes from his fans.
Gone are the days when actors and celebrities remained tight-lipped about any health condition they faced. With the explosion of the Internet, there is anyway too much speculation, and the best way to address those is by being transparent and open.
Both Sonali and Irrfan have shared a very personal experience with their fans, and one hopes that the same is respected.
While both these actors are well-known, we have also seen instances of various others coming forward and sharing personal stories of their fights against cancer. These stories are heartening as they provide the much-needed support for others in similar situations.
One such story that will certainly move you is that of 4-year-old Ishaanvi who saw her grandmother battle cancer and feel ashamed of losing her hair. To help her cope, the little girl decided to shave her hair off – on her own.
You can read all about that here.
Another story is that of Neerja Malik, a ‘cancer conqueror’, as she likes to call herself.
Having battled with cancer twice, she is now a motivational speaker and counselor helping and touching many lives.
You can read her inspiring story here.
The Better India wishes health and strength to the warriors fighting cancer and other illnesses.
(Edited by Shruti Singhal)
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