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Inspiring Path to Healing
Manisha’s story isn’t just a tale of survival; it’s a testament to the incredible strength within us, waiting to be unleashed in the face of life’s challenges. Her experience illustrates that no matter how insurmountable obstacles may appear, courage, determination, and belief in our abilities can carry us through.
Inspiring Path to Healing
Manisha’s story isn’t just a tale of survival; it’s a testament to the incredible strength within us, waiting to be unleashed in the face of life’s challenges. Her experience illustrates that no matter how insurmountable obstacles may appear, courage, determination, and belief in our abilities can carry us through.
Inspiring Path to Healing
Manisha’s story isn’t just a tale of survival; it’s a testament to the incredible strength within us, waiting to be unleashed in the face of life’s challenges. Her experience illustrates that no matter how insurmountable obstacles may appear, courage, determination, and belief in our abilities can carry us through.
Aathira Ayyappan
Manisha after undergoing axillary lymph node dissection.
Manisha, amid her cancer treatment.
In the midst of the whirlwind that had completely upended my life, I found myself on a journey that demanded determination, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the power of the human spirit. On that fateful day, April 27th, 2022, as I sat in my gynaecologist’s office, I learned the news that changed my life: I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Cancer may have entered my life uninvited, but it was met with a force it hadn’t anticipated: my unyielding will to overcome.
Defying limitations: A fitness journey Redefined
I had always been a fitness enthusiast and took great care of my health and appearance; so the cancer diagnosis completely shook me. On May 12th, 2022, I underwent breast conservation surgery, a significant step in my battle against cancer. The procedure aimed to remove the cancerous cells while preserving as much of my breast tissue as possible. It was a pivotal moment that brought both relief and uncertainty.
Furthermore, I had to undergo a surgery that involved the removal of lymph nodes from my right axilla (armpit), which had also put me at a high risk of developing a condition called lymphoedema, which causes build-up of lymph fluid. This situation may have been overwhelming and terrifying to any other person, but I never cowered in fear of what could happen. I wasn’t ‘scared to death’ like I was expected to be, nor was I going to grant cancer the power to steal my worth.
As I navigated the uncharted waters of recovery, I embraced every moment as an opportunity to defy the odds. The cautionary words of my doctors echoed in my ears: I was not to lift more than 5 kgs with my right hand, a restriction that could have easily shattered my passion for fitness. However, I was not one to be confined by limitations. Instead, I chose to view this challenge as a chance to redefine what was possible.
With the support of my trainer, who saw my potential when others saw restrictions, I embarked on a fitness journey that was as unconventional as it was empowering. I delved into alternative forms of exercise that not only respected my physical constraints but also nurtured my body and soul. Yoga became my sanctuary, offering me a space where I could find peace amidst the chaos, and pilates became my ally, strengthening my core and rebuilding my physical foundation.
Radiation therapy: A test of endurance and resolve
My journey was not without its challenges. Radiation therapy, a crucial component of my treatment, tested my endurance and resolve. Yet, with each session, I emerged stronger, my spirit unbroken, and my determination reinforced. The support of my loved ones, especially my husband who stood by my side, the team of doctors and various cancer support groups became my anchor in the storm.
In the midst of the whirlwind that had completely upended my life, I found myself on a journey that demanded unwavering determination, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the power of the human spirit. On that fateful day, April 27th, 2022, as I sat in my gynaecologist’s office, I learned the news that changed my life: I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Cancer may have entered my life uninvited, but it was met with a force it hadn’t anticipated: my unyielding will to overcome.
Manisha, after undergoing axillary lymph node dissection.
Defying limitations: A fitness Journey Redefined
I had always been a fitness enthusiast and took great care of my health and appearance; so the cancer diagnosis completely shook me. On May 12th, 2022, I underwent breast conservation surgery, a significant step in my battle against cancer. The procedure aimed to remove the cancerous cells while preserving as much of my breast tissue as possible. It was a pivotal moment that brought both relief and uncertainty.
Furthermore, I had to undergo a surgery that involved the removal of lymph nodes from my right axilla (armpit), which had also put me at a high risk of developing a condition called lymphoedema, which causes build-up of lymph fluid. This situation may have been overwhelming and terrifying to any other person, but I never cowered in fear of what could happen. I wasn’t ‘scared to death’ like I was expected to be, nor was I going to grant cancer the power to steal my worth.
Manisha, amid her cancer treatment.
As I navigated the uncharted waters of recovery, I embraced every moment as an opportunity to defy the odds. The cautionary words of my doctors echoed in my ears: I was not to lift more than 5 kgs with my right hand, a restriction that could have easily shattered my passion for fitness. However, I was not one to be confined by limitations. Instead, I chose to view this challenge as a chance to redefine what was possible.
With the support of my trainer, who saw my potential when others saw restrictions, I embarked on a fitness journey that was as unconventional as it was empowering. I delved into alternative forms of exercise that not only respected my physical constraints but also nurtured my body and soul. Yoga became my sanctuary, offering me a space where I could find peace amidst the chaos, and pilates became my ally, strengthening my core and rebuilding my physical foundation.
Radiation therapy: A test of endurance and resolve
My journey was not without its challenges. Radiation therapy, a crucial component of my treatment, tested my endurance and resolve. Yet, with each session, I emerged stronger, my spirit unbroken, and my determination reinforced. The support of my loved ones, especially my husband who stood by my side, the team of doctors and various cancer support groups became my anchor in the storm.
Manisha, during her workouts at the gym.
Laughter as a coping mechanism: Illuminating the darkest moments
It was not long before I discovered the incredible impact of exercise on my overall well-being. Physical activity became a realm where I could regain a sense of control, rebuild my strength, and challenge the limitations that cancer and the subsequent lymphoedema sought to impose on me. The gym, once a place of solace, transformed into a battleground where I fought not only for my physical health but also for my mental and emotional well-being.
I chose laughter as my unexpected coping mechanism. The ability to find joy in the darkest moments became my source of strength, reminding me that even in the midst of pain, there was room for happiness. Laughter became my bridge between despair and hope.
Manisha, during her workouts at the gym.
Manisha, in recovery.
Laughter as a coping mechanism, illuminating the darkest moments
It was not long before I discovered the incredible impact of exercise on my overall well-being. Physical activity became a realm where I could regain a sense of control, rebuild my strength, and challenge the limitations that cancer and the subsequent lymphoedema sought to impose on me. The gym, once a place of solace, transformed into a battleground where I fought not only for my physical health but also for my mental and emotional well-being.
I chose laughter as my unexpected coping mechanism. The ability to find joy in the darkest moments became my source of strength, reminding me that even in the midst of pain, there was room for happiness. Laughter became my bridge between despair and hope.
Believing in myself and overcoming adversity
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the incredible strength that resides within us, waiting to be unleashed in the face of challenges. I am living proof that life’s obstacles, however daunting, can be overcome with courage, determination, and an unwavering belief in our abilities. Even in the darkest storms, there is a light within us that can guide us to victory.
To all the #WonderWomen out there, facing their battles with unwavering courage, I say this: Believe in your strength, embrace your resilience, and never underestimate the power of your spirit. We are capable of overcoming anything that comes our way, for within us lies a limitless reservoir of strength and courage. Together, we can rise above the challenges, emerging victorious, and inspiring others to do the same.
A new chapter: Embracing life as a survivor and inspiring others
Manisha, amid her cancer treatment.
Believing in myself and overcoming adversity
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the incredible strength that resides within us, waiting to be unleashed in the face of challenges. I am living proof that life’s obstacles, however daunting, can be overcome with courage, determination, and an unwavering belief in our abilities. Even in the darkest storms, there is a light within us that can guide us to victory.
To all the #WonderWomen out there, facing their battles with unwavering courage, I say this: Believe in your strength, embrace your resilience, and never underestimate the power of your spirit. We are capable of overcoming anything that comes our way, for within us lies a limitless reservoir of strength and courage. Together, we can rise above the challenges, emerging victorious, and inspiring others to do the same.
Manisha, during the recent festival season.
A new chapter: Embracing life as a survivor and inspiring others
In the tapestry of my life, cancer and lymphedema were but threads, chapters in my story, not the entirety of it. I emerged from this experience not as a victim, but as a survivor. And as I stand here today, I stand not just for myself but for every woman who has faced difficulties and emerged stronger, for we are all Wonder Women in our own right, capable of conquering the world with our strength, grace, and firm resolve.
Now, as a fitness trainer, living a ‘normal’ life once more, I cherish each day as a precious gift. My hope is to inspire survivors, showing them that life after cancer and lymphedema is not merely a continuation but a chance to thrive. Through my fitness journey, I aim to demonstrate that the human spirit is resilient, unyielding, and capable of achieving remarkable feats. Together, we can face the future with courage, knowing that we are Wonder Women, unstoppable in our pursuit of a fulfilling, joyful life.
Never doubt your spirit. And remember, your body can stand almost anything. It’s your mind you have to convince.
Manisha Kumar
Manisha, during the recent festival season.
In the tapestry of my life, cancer and lymphedema were but threads, chapters in my story, not the entirety of it. I emerged from this experience not as a victim, but as a survivor. And as I stand here today, I stand not just for myself but for every woman who has faced difficulties and emerged stronger, for we are all Wonder Women in our own right, capable of conquering the world with our strength, grace, and firm resolve.
Now, as a fitness trainer, living a ‘normal’ life once more, I cherish each day as a precious gift. My hope is to inspire survivors, showing them that life after cancer and lymphedema is not merely a continuation but a chance to thrive. Through my fitness journey, I aim to demonstrate that the human spirit is resilient, unyielding, and capable of achieving remarkable feats. Together, we can face the future with courage, knowing that we are Wonder Women, unstoppable in our pursuit of a fulfilling, joyful life.
Never doubt your spirit. And remember, your body can stand almost anything. It’s your mind you have to convince.
Manisha Kumar
Share this story with someone who could benefit from this advice or inspiration, especially if they are going through a similar situation.
Share this story with someone who could benefit from this advice or inspiration, especially if they are going through a similar situation.
In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
In times of need, support means everything, and with Milaap, you need not look any further. Milaap enables you to set up a fundraiser for any medical emergency within minutes, and you can easily raise funds for treatment expenses.
Do you know someone who could benefit from fundraising? Simply refer them to us and we’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Visit www.milaap.org or call us on +91 9916174848 to get started now.
For more information, write to us at cx@milaap.org.
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