Cancer Survivor Reunites with Father After 10 Years on Dussehra
A touching Dussehra reunion marks the triumph of a woman over cancer and mental health struggles.
A woman, known as Nanda, reunited with her father after a decade apart.
She battled cancer while receiving treatment at the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur.
The reunion facilitated her access to necessary health services and support.
In a heartwarming turn of events, a woman named Nanda, who has faced significant challenges with her mental health and cancer, was reunited with her father after ten long years on Dussehra. This emotional meeting took place at the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur, where Nanda has been receiving treatment since March 19, 2024. Her journey has been marked by a struggle for stability, moving between various shelters and NGOs before finding her way to the hospital.
Nanda, who is originally from Wardha, was diagnosed with cancer on November 29, 2024, during routine medical examinations at the hospital. Following her diagnosis, she was transferred to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for chemotherapy and other treatments. However, by July 2025, the financial burden of her ongoing treatment became a pressing concern, particularly as she lacked essential identification documents like an Aadhaar card or ration card, complicating her access to government health schemes.
The hospital staff, led by social service superintendent Kunda Katkhaye Bidkar, took it upon themselves to locate Nanda's family. With the assistance of local police patils from Wardha, they successfully traced her father. Initially hesitant due to financial constraints, he eventually agreed to visit Nanda after receiving counseling from Bidkar. Their reunion on August 7, 2025, marked a significant milestone in both their lives, especially after a decade of separation.
This reunion not only rekindled their familial bond but also enabled the hospital to finalize Nanda's documentation, allowing her to obtain an Ayushman Bharat card and enroll in the state health scheme. With these hurdles cleared, her treatment could continue without interruption. The medical team, including doctors and nurses, provided comprehensive care, including emotional support and counseling, which played a crucial role in her recovery.
On the eve of Vijayadashami, Nanda received positive news when her latest cancer test results came back negative, a moment celebrated by the hospital staff. Bidkar expressed pride in the resilience shown by Nanda and the dedication of the hospital team in overcoming the challenges posed by her illness. The staff commemorated this dual victory by presenting Nanda with flowers and sweets, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.