In 2007, Aswini Kumar Darjee, a 59-year-old senior journalist residing in Bhubaneswar, received a life-altering diagnosis: cervical gland cancer, affecting the head and neck region. The news came as a profound shock, shattering his carefree and hardworking demeanor as a newsman. "Initially, I could not believe that I have got cancer. After three to four consultations, it was confirmed. I was suddenly thrown into a world of uncertainty," Aswini recalled, describing the emotional turmoil that followed.
The Turning Point: From Personal Struggle to Collective Support
Throughout his treatment journey, Aswini experienced a glaring gap in psychosocial support for cancer patients and their families. This realization planted the seed for a transformative mission. By 2017, he began actively working to fill this void, drawing from his own experiences of fear and financial strain. "At that time, I did not get any psychosocial support to cope with the fear. I was scared and clueless. Financial issues were also there," he shared. He credits his wife, Sarada Lahangir, a senior journalist-turned-development professional, for helping him emerge from what he calls "the jaws of death." After his recovery, Aswini felt compelled to assist others facing similar battles.
Birth of the 'Fighters Group'
Driven by a strong urge to make a difference, Aswini, alongside 12 other cancer survivors, founded the 'Fighters Group' in 2017, initially based in Bargarh, his hometown. The group coordinates hospital treatments for patients and connects them with appropriate agencies for assistance. Sarada highlighted the group's growth, noting, "Now they have 154 direct members, who are survivors and family members, and more than 1,000 people indirectly support them. Every week, they receive three to four calls from new cancer patients seeking psychosocial help."
Advocating for Employment and Dignity
Aswini emphasized the challenges cancer survivors face in securing employment due to financial constraints and societal biases. "Many employers think cancer survivors cannot perform like other staff. This mindset should change, and cancer survivors need a chance to work and earn their livelihood," he asserted. He advocates for dignity over sympathy, stating, "I do not want sympathy in life; I want dignity in death."
A Vision for the Future: Shelter Home in Bhubaneswar
Looking ahead, Aswini dreams of establishing a shelter home in Bhubaneswar for cancer patients and their families during treatment periods. He explained, "A poor patient cannot pay a huge amount of money monthly to get rented accommodation during treatment. A safe and hygienic shelter with food arrangements can immensely benefit the patients and their kin." This vision underscores his commitment to holistic support beyond medical care.
Aswini Kumar Darjee's journey from a cancer patient to a beacon of hope exemplifies resilience and community-driven change. His efforts through the 'Fighters Group' continue to provide crucial psychosocial support, challenging stigmas and fostering a more inclusive environment for cancer survivors in Odisha.
