KANNUR: 58-year-old Vasumathi was determined to end her life when was diagnosed with cancer at the Malabar Cancer Care Society. The disease in her breast had reached the third stage and was serious.

The doctors said a come back was impossible. She thought of jumping under a bus while returning home from the hospital. She then decided to hang herself after everyone slept in the night. The cost of treatment will place an unaffordable financial burden on the family. She hid test results from other members of the family. But the doctor who examined Vasumathi informed a close relative of her. This was crucial, as the relative intervened in the matter and the support from others followed. With the support of others, she was determined to fight the disease.

The tumor in the right breast was confirmed to be cancer a year later. By then it had entered the third phase. The breast was removed as part of the treatment. Shen then completed 11 sets of chemo and 25 radiation. Many people sympathized with her for the loss of hair and the physical state of the body after chemo. That did not deter Vasumathi. Today, she has fought and defeated the disease and is earning an income through her work in the employment guarantee scheme. Earlier, she used to work in a quarry. She now supports her husband who has a heart condition. She also managed to conduct the marriage of her three daughters.

Any cancer will surrender if you have the desire to live, just like any other disease. Vasumathi, a native of Muryattu in Koothuparamba, is a living proof of this.