I call my 74-year-old grandma Aaji, as most people do in Marathi families. She lives in Mumbai with my grandpa, who is 77. They both live life to the fullest, and have withstood ups and downs together. My Aaji is very active and over the years has made several trips to Singapore. She is out and about when in Mumbai, and keeps herself busy with chores. She’s a very sweet grandma and always pampers me with loads of food. Her cooking is delicious, especially her sabudana khichdi or her basundi.
Aaji leads a normal lifestyle, despite medical tragedies that have befallen her. She is a three-time cancer survivor. Cancer has always been around, terrifying patients and their families. So, when my Aaji contracted it, my dad went through a rollercoaster of emotions. The first time she had cancer was when she was 57 years old, and she managed, with mostly her willpower. When the doctor advised a surgery, which would restrict her lifestyle, she chose an alternative instead. The doctor said that she could do part surgery and part chemotherapy, but with the risk that the treatment might not succeed. Can you guess what she did? Yes, she chose to take the risk.
To everyone’s surprise, cancer struck again two years later, and once again it was her willpower and resilience that saved her. Her body had lost most of its strength. She was terrified. This time, the doctor gave the same options once again, and yet again she chose to live her life fully. Life was just about getting back to normal, when cancer knocked on her door once more, and she fought, for the third time.
Life went on; you would think that injuries would lay off her for a while. But no. Our family traveled to Spain to meet my uncle, his wife, and his new baby son. We had a fun trip, but within a few days after getting back, news came in, and it was not good. My Aaji had been walking on a street in Mumbai, underneath the sweltering sun, keeping up with her active life. Only, this street was slightly uneven. As luck would have it, she slipped and had a fall. The doctor said she had torn her right arm’s muscle, making it immobile. Given her age, in order to avoid any surgeries, the doctor suggested some exercises. And now, she is forced to use her left hand for everything. Therefore at the moment, my beloved Aaji can’t cook. Her inability to make yummy food for me during my recent visit made her upset. But has also strengthened her resolve to get better. In December, she might get a surgery, and all I can hope for is that she recovers soon.
Even with everything that she has been going through, my Aaji helps the world in her own small way, putting her troubles aside. She has encouraging conversations with people who have cancer and are scared, by sharing her experiences. I sincerely wish she is able to live a healthy and joyous life, without any more hurdles. Aaji’s story is amazing and inspiring. Valiant is the word.