YouWeCan’s Chief Mentor Mrs. Poonam Nanda was joined by actor and cancer warrior Chhavi Mittal in an interactive InstaLive. Chhavi’s battle with cancer was witnessed by the world — as she documented her journey, to spread awareness on cancer and treatment. “I am lucky that I found it on time. It was by chance. I went to get a chest injury examined — and while they were examining that, they also found a lump that turned out to be cancerous. I was blessed with doctors who were persistent on me getting the lump further examined,” says Chhavi.

Further, she elaborates on the importance of timely check up. “I believed that if I work out regularly, I eat well, I take care of myself — cancer is something that can never happen to me. I was lucky in a way, that the lump was found the way that it was, and I got treatment at the right time. Timely check-up, is absolutely essential,” she says.

As a cancer survivor herself, Mrs. Nanda emphasizes on the attention and care everyone must pay to their bodies. “Awareness and early detection is the only solution to these problems. It’s so important to respond to the signals our bodies give us,” she says.

“Absolutely. I have seen people recover from stage 4 cancer. However, it is very painful and mind-numbing to go through treatment at that stage. To avoid all of that, all you need to do is get screened and ensure timely checkups. Self-examinations and mammograms are also available for everyone to do. Once you are over 40 years of age, it is essential to get screened each year. However, young women should also be equally careful. Parents should educate their children of symptoms, and self exam techniques. Daughters must be made aware of the importance of self-examination and be educated on the nuances of Breast Cancer,” Chhavi says.

“I am lucky that I found it on time. It was by chance. I went to get a chest injury examined — and while they were examining that, they also found a lump that turned out to be cancerous. I was blessed with doctors who were persistent on me getting the lump further examined,” says Chhavi.

The Swasth Mahila Swasth Goa initiative is one such awareness program. “Over the course of the Swasth Mahila Swastha Goa Program – the women who have been detected with breast cancer have received a diagnosis. And the women who have been clear of breast cancer — have received important information and empowerment on how to look after themselves,” Chhavi says.

As Chhavi continues to battle cancer with grit and determination — she looks forward to sharing her story and resources with those who need it. “I always look for ways of being part of the global battle against cancer. I am happy to be associated with YouWeCan Foundation, because the leg work and awareness work that is done is commendable. Kudos to you,” she signs off.