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KOHIMA — A cervical cancer survivor and recipient of Padma Shri, Neidonuo Angami, stated that cancer has the power to destroy all hopes but at the same has the power to shine the light on the true meaning and purpose of life.
Neidonuo shared her testimony during the three-day 19th annual conference of the Association of Oncologists of Northeast India (AONEI) held at De Oriental Grand Hotel in Kohima on Sunday. The conference began on February 2 and concluded on Sunday coinciding with ‘World Cancer Day.’
Speaking at the valedictory programme, Neidonuo shared her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Neidonuo informed that in 1996, she faced the life-altering news of her cancer diagnosis, leaving her mentally and physically shattered.
“Cancer has the power to destroy all hopes, but it also has the power to shine the light on the true meaning and purpose of life. In the dark radiation rooms, the power of the Almighty radiates on the killer cells and when you come out of it, you radiate that power in our being,” said Neidonuo.
She expressed gratitude for the crucial support received from her family and friends and credited timely medical intervention for her recovery. She emphasised the importance of a strong support system during cancer treatment and revealed her struggle with the fear of recurrence.
Subsequently, she co-founded the Cancer Survivors Fellowship in March 2002 which aims to create a platform for survivors to share experiences and offer support to one another through their stories. The Fellowship seeks to instil hope among cancer patients.
Neidonuo commended the dedication and commitment of oncologists from the northeast region to saving lives. She conveyed best wishes on their efforts to transcend regional boundaries and make a positive impact at the national and international levels.
She also dwelled on the theme of World Cancer Day 2022-2024, "Close the care gap" and stressed the need for collective responsibility to raise awareness and educate the public.
While attributing a lack of awareness for the increasing cases of cervical cancer, she has sought a united effort to narrow down the gap in understanding and addressing the challenges posed by cancer.
President of AONEI, Dr. Jadunath Buragohian, informed that nine-panel discussions were held on oncology, while more than 30 paper presentations were made with more than 250 members registered for the conference during the conference.
He maintained that AONEI is creating accessibility for treatment and awareness besides continuing medical education (CME) not only among AONEI members but also among other doctors and the public.
AONEI conference organising secretary, Dr. Keduovinuo Keditsu, informed that the conference brought together oncologists, researchers and healthcare professionals, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange with faculties including 43 from the national, 53 from the regional and 27 locals.
Prof. Dr. Th Tomcha Singh, former president of AONEI, and Dr. BC Goswami, former director of State Cancer Institute, Guwahati, also spoke during the event and appreciated the organisers for the successful conduct of the event.
The programme was led by Dr. Vinotsole Tina Khamo, chairman of the organising committee.