Killing cancer with will power

Nandu Mahadeva’s fight against cancer is an inspiring tale

KOCHI:  ‘Chemo aaswadhikkukayaanu’, (enjoying chemo) read 24-year-old Nandu Mahadeva’s Facebook status. Diagnosed with bone cancer in December, leading a life in crutches after operating one leg, the young lad is setting an example on how to combat the disease with courage and determination. 
A native of Thiruvananthapuram, Nandu was running a catering business when he got to know about his disease. “It started as a slight pain in my left leg and we realised it was cancer in its second stage. I had no other option other than operating my leg, but I never lost my confidence,” he said. Nandu has a lot of followers in Facebook appreciating his willpower and approach to the disease.

“Most people are more afraid of chemo than the disease. I wanted to bring a change in this, so I put up such posts on social media,” he added. Nandu affirmed that until someone accepts defeat, he cannot be defeated. He said after his surgery he was adamant to start walking using a walker and was able to do it. “After 12 days, I walked in crutches to see my doctor and he was very happy to see it. My family and friends are a great support in building this confidence,” he said. He added along with funds from the Regional Cancer Centre where he is currently undergoing treatment, his friends are also financially supporting him. 

Nandu said he is not aware of how many more chemos are needed. “No matter how many it takes, I am going to sail through it. In my childhood, I was afraid of even a small injection, but now I am ready to face anything,” he said. After completing his treatment, Nandu aims to continue his studies, be part of his business again and also lend his support to various charities. 

“In many films, cancer is portrayed as a deadly disease with the patient dying in the end, this actually gives a bad message. Making a film where a person boldly overcomes cancer is also my dream,” he added.
Nandu said cancer is nothing to be afraid of, as even without treatment a person will survive for more than five years. “Many people in our society have courageously faced and won the battle against cancer. They should come out and spread the message to the public, thereby helping others to overcome the fear,” he said. 

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