The Week India – July 21, 2019

THE WEEK • JULY 21, 2019 21

PLUS

Doctor Shows the Way.

Over the years, Shekhar kept returning to
Mumbai for his check-ups. In 2010, while
pursuing a degree in commerce, a doctor at
the hospital suggested that he give back
something to society. “He told me that we
do so much for ourselves but should do
something for others too. He advised me to
join a cancer support group where I would
find like-minded people who could help me
get rid of my sense of isolation.”

“I was very interested in cricket and had
even played at the school and college
levels. But my family was not well off
enough for me to take up sports as a career.
So I decided to focus on my studies. I was
an average student, but I completed my
Masters’ degree and returned to Mumbai,
this time to look for a job and settle down in
this city – it has become my second home.”

Opening Doors Hitherto

Unopened.

Keeping his promise to his doctor, Shekhar
joined Ugam, a support group for those
affected by childhood cancer. The support
group went a step further and offered him a
full-time employment given his involvement.

“The group made me realize that I am not

alone and that there are others who have

been through what I have. The people here

drew me out of my shell and helped me

open up to others.”

Shekhar’s wife Rekha, whom he met in

Mumbai, was very accepting when he told

her about his diagnosis as a child. “Ours is

a love marriage, and I was very honest with

her. She said the only thing that mattered

was that I was fine now.”

“As a child, I felt that I would settle down in

Mumbai. People here have a very positive

attitude. In the village, they tend to gossip

and bear grudges. I never liked that. People

here care for each other but mind their own

business. Also, they are constantly trying to

better their lives.”

Music Therapy.

Bollywood city has also imparted to him a

love for music, which he sees as a mood

elevator. “When I lived alone here, I would

come as often as I could to Marine Drive

and listen to old Hindi film music. My

favourite singer is Mohammed Rafi. I also

like Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar. I

would listen to their solo romantic songs

and feel happy. And then I would go home

relaxed.”