Kolkata, September 27, 2026: Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, hosted “The Courage Walk – Onco-Gynae Survivor Meet 2026” on Saturday, bringing together gynaecological cancer survivors, doctors, healthcare professionals and distinguished guests to celebrate resilience, recovery and life beyond cancer.
The event highlighted the courage and determination of women who have overcome challenging cancer journeys. Survivors shared their experiences of diagnosis, treatment and recovery, reflecting on the medical care, emotional support and personal strength that helped them move forward.
The programme was graced by Chaitali Dasgupta, former Doordarshan anchor and artist, and renowned dancer Tanusree Shankar as the Chief Guests. Their presence added a special dimension to the celebration, emphasising hope, self-expression and the importance of embracing life after cancer.
The event was attended by Komal Dashora, Cluster Director – Mukundapur Cluster, Manipal Hospitals, along with the hospital’s gynae-oncology team led by Dr. Arunava Roy, HOD – Gynaecologic Oncology, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, and Senior Consultant – Gynaecologic Oncology, Manipal Hospital Broadway & Saltlake. Dr. Neha Agarwal, Consultant, Gynaecologic Onco-Surgery, and Dr. Arunashis Mallick, Consultant, Gynaecologic Onco-Surgery, both from Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, were also present.
A key highlight of the programme was a special fashion show featuring cancer survivors, who walked the ramp with confidence and pride. The initiative transformed the occasion into a celebration of self-expression, renewed confidence and the joy of moving forward after treatment.
Speaking at the event, Chaitali Dasgupta said that The Courage Walk was a celebration of women who had faced one of life’s most difficult challenges with courage and determination. She emphasised the importance of speaking openly about cancer, encouraging women to prioritise their health and reminding survivors that they are not alone in their journey.
Tanusree Shankar said the event reflected the power of resilience, self-belief and the human spirit. She noted that seeing survivors walk with confidence and joy was deeply inspiring and highlighted the importance of community and support during survivorship.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Arunava Roy highlighted the need for greater awareness, timely diagnosis and access to appropriate treatment for gynaecological cancers. He said that cervical, ovarian and uterine cancers continue to pose a significant health burden and stressed the importance of comprehensive support throughout diagnosis, treatment, recovery and survivorship.
“Every survivor carries a story of immense courage, and The Courage Walk is a celebration of these journeys,” said Dr. Roy. He added that cancer may be a difficult chapter in a woman’s life, but it does not have to define her future.
The event also featured moving survivor stories. Radha Maitra, 64, from Garia, shared her experience of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer after experiencing severe breathing difficulties and being found to have fluid in her lungs. Following evaluation at Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, she underwent a 15-hour surgery under Dr. Arunava Roy, followed by six cycles of chemotherapy and medication. She said she is now doing well and able to lead a normal life.
Another survivor, Mithu Roy, 48, from Sealdah, shared her experience of undergoing surgery following the diagnosis of a uterine tumour. She said she is currently doing well and continuing medication as advised by her doctors.
The programme provided survivors with an opportunity to connect, share experiences and celebrate important milestones in their recovery. The Courage Walk ultimately became a celebration of life beyond cancer—recognising every step taken with courage, every challenge overcome and every new chapter embraced.
