Ahmedabad Singers Triumph Over Mouth Cancer Through Technology and Determination
In the vibrant city of Ahmedabad, two remarkable individuals are proving that a cancer diagnosis does not have to silence one's passions. Bhavesh Udewal, a 48-year-old professional singer, and Devang Shah, a 62-year-old cable firm official, have both overcome mouth cancer and found innovative ways to continue singing, despite significant speech impairments resulting from their treatments.
Bhavesh Udewal: The Professional Performer Who Refused to Be Silenced
Bhavesh Udewal is a seasoned musician and stage performer known for his energetic garba performances that get crowds dancing. However, few in his audience would guess that he has battled mouth cancer, which left him with compromised speech due to mouth fibrosis. "Because of mouth fibrosis post-cancer treatment, I cannot completely open my mouth, resulting in a lisp when I speak," Udewal explains. "But when I sing with the help of the mixer, nobody can guess that I surmounted cancer."
Udewal's journey began four years ago when he was diagnosed with a mouth ulcer, which he initially ignored as he chewed pan masala and experienced occasional sores. A year later, during a visit to the US, searing pain led to a cancer diagnosis. He underwent surgery in August 2022, and while his recovery was satisfactory, his speech was severely affected. "My voice is my bread and butter, and I was worried," he confesses. Undeterred, Udewal started experimenting with sound mixers and software, using technology to overcome his condition and continue his singing career.
Devang Shah: Rediscovering a Lost Hobby Amidst Adversity
Devang Shah's story is equally inspiring. Diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2017, primarily due to decades of tobacco consumption, Shah had a section of his teeth and part of his jawbone removed to treat the tumour. "I am still undergoing regular treatment for my remaining teeth that decay easily. I also have fibrosis, meaning I cannot open my mouth enough," he says. The cancer took away his hobby of singing, but during the Covid pandemic, he decided to reclaim it.
Shah started making short videos with a small console and found solace in singing old songs by Bollywood singer Mukesh. He now performs at film song clubs in Ahmedabad and other events, running a YouTube channel to share his music. "I realised old songs sung by Bollywood singer Mukesh gave me solace. I started singing his songs in select gatherings," Shah shares, highlighting how he turned a personal challenge into a source of joy and connection.
The Broader Context: Head and Neck Cancer in Gujarat
These stories gain added significance as Wednesday marks World Cancer Day, with this year's theme ‘United by Unique' celebrating cancer warriors who emerge stronger from their battles. Gujarat has a high burden of head and neck cancers, largely attributed to tobacco consumption. City-based experts note that many patients struggle with clear speech after surgeries involving the removal of parts of the jaw or palate.
Dr. Kaustubh Patel, a head and neck cancer surgeon and founder of the Ahmedabad Cancer Foundation, emphasizes the challenges patients face. "Complications after surgeries often deter patients," he says. To combat this, on February 1, the foundation organized Golden Voice in association with the Ahmedabad Medical Association (AMA), where eight head and neck cancer survivors sang songs and gave speeches. "The purpose was to underline the inherent indomitable human spirit that helps the winners surmount any challenges," Dr. Patel adds.
Conclusion: A Testament to Human Resilience
Bhavesh Udewal and Devang Shah exemplify the resilience and innovation that can arise in the face of adversity. By leveraging technology and sheer determination, they have not only regained their voices but also inspired others battling similar conditions. Udewal sums it up well: "I am using technology to overcome my condition and would support any cancer survivor." Their journeys serve as powerful reminders that with support and creativity, life after cancer can be filled with melody and hope.
