GOOD MORNING DOCTOR Prof. John Kurakar (a heart touching experience of cancer treatment) authored by Prof. John Kurakar CHAPTER 9 FURTHER TREATMENT IN MUMBAI

                                      GOOD MORNING DOCTOR

Prof. John Kurakar

(a heart touching experience of cancer treatment) authored by Prof. John Kurakar

CHAPTER 9

FURTHER TREATMENT IN MUMBAI

In May 2022, I arrived at Swan Harmony Apartments in Navi Mumbai. After two days, I saw Dr. Rajesh, a Gastro surgeon at Apollo Hospital. Apollo is one of the best hospitals in Navi Mumbai.Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai prides itself on being able to offer cutting-edge advanced treatments in almost all aspects of healthcare and surgery. This Apollo hospital Belapur branch has an extensive team of experienced and talented doctors, further supported by a pool of highly qualified, dedicated, and experienced support staff and sophisticated medical technologies. Apollo Hospital Navi Mumbai is a 500-bedded facility with world-class infrastructure and facilities. It also has 13 ultra-modern operation theatres, state-of-the-art laboratories, and 120 ICU beds.

Dr. Rajesh reviewed all the treatment records from Amrutha and issued a satisfaction certificate for the care received there. He conducted a comprehensive examination and demonstrated both kindness and compassion. He explained that the leg pain was likely a side effect of the chemotherapy and radiation administered before the APR surgery. He recommended consulting a general physician, as well as specialists in oncology and urology.Dr. Rajesh S. Shinde, MS, M.Ch., is a Consultant Surgical Oncologist specializing in Gastro-intestinal Oncology, HPB Cancer, and Robotic Surgery at Apollo Cancer Centres. He has extensive experience in performing complex surgeries for colorectal, stomach, liver, pancreas, gall bladder, bile duct, and retroperitoneal cancers. Dr. Shinde completed his Surgical Oncology training at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. He further honed his skills in Robotic Surgery at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University, Seoul—an esteemed institute renowned for its advanced robotic systems. Additionally, he trained in advanced Pancreatic and HPB Surgery at the University of Verona, Italy, a leading center for pancreatic surgeries.

The next day, Dr. Rajesh advised that the urine tube and bag could be replaced. Although they were changed the following morning, urinary issues continued, necessitating another visit to Apollo that night for a replacement. Following Dr. Rajesh's recommendation, I consulted Dr.Amool, a urologist at Apollo. Based on his guidance, a uro-dynamic test was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Mrs. B.K. Daster.Most urodynamic tests evaluate how well the bladder can store and release urine. These tests can also detect if the bladder contracts involuntarily, which can lead to urine leakage. The urodynamics test typically lasts about 60 minutes and is generally painless, so sedation is not required. To begin the test, a nurse will ask you to empty your bladder in a specialized chair. The tests assess the efficiency of the bladder and urethra in storing and expelling urine, providing insight into their overall function.The uro-dynamic test was reviewed by the urologist. Due to the bladder's decreased functionality, he recommended continuing with the tube and bag. Managing and emptying the urine bag daily was very challenging.After arriving in Mumbai from Kottarakkara and staying with my son Manu, my physical and mental condition remained quite poor. Insomnia was my biggest problem, along with unnecessary fear, feelings of isolation, claustrophobia, and anxiety about confined spaces, closed rooms, and elevators. I found no joy in anything. At Apollo Hospital, Prof. Dr. Rajesh S. Shinde, noticing my condition, tried to uplift my spirits with his words. He reassured me, saying, 'Don't be afraid of anything; everything is fine. The elephant is gone; only the tail remains.' His demeanor, dedication, and kindness are something I will never forget.

"As the pain in my leg worsened, we visited Dr.Bhaimangesh Naik, a well-known general physician near Swan Harmony in Belapur, where we were staying. Dr.Bhaimangesh Naik is a Consultant Physician and Diabetologist with 18 years of experience. He practices at M.G.M. Hospital and Research Centre in Belapur, Navi Mumbai. Dr. Naik completed his MBBS from MIMSR Medical College, Latur in 2002 and his MD in Medicine from Government Medical College, Nanded in 2008. He is a member of the Association of Physicians of India (API) and the Association of Medical Consultants. His services include Electrocardiography (ECG), treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), fever treatment, insulin treatment, and infectious disease treatment.Dr.Bhaimangesh Naik adjusted my blood pressure medications and recommended a thyroid test. He also prescribed several medications to alleviate the leg pain. I visited him again on May 24, July 14, and July 19, 2022. Although Dr. Naik’s medications provided some relief from the leg pain, the insomnia and mental stress persisted.My daughter and son frequently discussed my issues with their colleagues and sought solutions. My son, Manu Kurakar, works as a Systems Manager at the SBI Global Office. Following the recommendation of a colleague from his bank, we consulted Dr.Seementini, a well-known psychiatrist in Navi Mumbai. Dr.Seementini is a compassionate individual.Dr. Seemantini Unawane is a renowned psychiatrist with 14 years of experience. She completed her MBBS from the Maharashtra Institute of Medical Education & Research (MIMER) in 2005 and then pursued her DPM (Psychiatry) at the same institution, finishing in 2008. Dr. Seemantini currently practices at Dr. Sangani Diagnostic Centre & Multi-Specialty Clinic in Nerul East, Navi Mumbai, and also at Chaudhary Clinic in Nerul West, Navi Mumbai.Dr. Seemantini is approachable and friendly. I discussed all my issues with her, and she provided effective strategies for managing my problems. Her advice has helped me control my obsessions, and I am now more relaxed and cheerful compared to my previous depressed state. She provided clarity to my thoughts and understood exactly what I was feeling and trying to convey, which made me feel at ease. Dr. Seemantini is sensitive, a good listener, and treats patients with empathy. She has handled numerous complex medical cases with attention to detail, accurate diagnosis, and compassionate care. My sleep patterns have improved, and my anxiety has significantly reduced since beginning treatment with her.

Dr. Seemantini Unawane asked about all my issues and understood my situation. She explained that experiencing mental disturbances after undergoing such extensive surgeries is quite common. Over a short period, Dr. Seemantini became one of our closest friends. Thanks to her care, I was able to regain my mental well-being. Dr. Seemantini has become a highly cherished doctor for us.She also mentioned that it might be possible to reduce the frequency of changing the urine tube and bag. Following Dr. Rajesh's advice from Apollo Hospital, we consulted with Dr. Salil V. Patkar, a medical oncologist.Dr. Salil Patkar is a distinguished oncologist in Navi Mumbai, currently practicing at Apollo Hospital for the past 10 years. He has extensive experience as a Medical Oncologist and has developed expertise in various oncology fields. Dr. Patkar earned his MBBS degree from Pravara Institute of Medical Science, Maharashtra, in 2004, followed by a DNB in General Medicine from KLES University JNMC and Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital, Karnataka, in 2014. He completed his DM in Oncology from B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Gujarat, in 2018.Dr. Patkar offers treatments for a range of cancers, including cervical, blood, liver, throat, breast, lung, and oral cancers. His services also include chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Known for his attention to detail, accurate diagnosis, and compassionate care, he has managed numerous complex medical cases.Dr. Patkar thoroughly reviewed the treatments provided at Amrutha Hospital and other relevant details.

Dr. Salil Patkar reviewed the details of the surgeries and subsequent treatments for rectal carcinoma and thyroid adenoma. Following the recommendation of Dr. Pavithran, the medical oncologist at Amrutha Hospital, Dr. Patkar advised completing a regimen of six cycles of chemotherapy tablets, with each cycle lasting 14 days. I began the chemotherapy in June 2022, taking five tablets daily. The six cycles of chemotherapy were completed by the end of December 2022.I consulted Dr. Patkar approximately ten times throughout the treatment, on dates including June 15, July 28, August 13, September 2, September 10, September 16, October 10, and November 18. During these visits, I discussed my issues, reviewed medical test results, and assessed the progress. Dr. Patkar confirmed that the treatment was satisfactory.Following Dr. Salil V. Patkar’s guidance, I also consulted Dr. Amit Lengote, a nephrologist.Dr. Amit Langote is a distinguished nephrologist at Seawoods Clinic, Navi Mumbai, and a full-time Consultant Nephrologist at Apollo Hospital, with over 23 years of experience in his field.Under Dr. Langote’s care, I underwent regular blood and thyroid tests every two weeks to keep track of my health. He also provided guidance on my chemotherapy regimen. His compassionate approach was reassuring, and he was pleased to see positive changes in my condition.After removal the urine tube and bag, I had several remaining unused leg bags and tubes that were no longer needed. I donated these items to Dr. Langote for use by underprivileged patients in need.

Willpower plays a crucial role in overcoming deadly diseases, serving as a driving force behind a patient's ability to endure and persevere through rigorous treatment regimens and emotional challenges. It empowers individuals to maintain a positive attitude, adhere to complex medical protocols, and make difficult lifestyle changes that are essential for recovery. The strength of will can significantly influence a patient’s resilience in facing side effects, managing pain, and remaining hopeful despite grim prognoses. By harnessing their willpower, patients can actively engage in their healing process, collaborate effectively with healthcare providers, and foster a mindset that contributes to their overall well-being. In essence, willpower not only supports the physical aspects of battling a disease but also fortifies the psychological resolve needed to confront and overcome the adversity of serious health conditions.