Gulfam Shah, a 34-year-old man, got diagnosed with carcinoma of the buccal mucosa. He was undergoing treatment when he first visited CanSupport’s Outpatient Clinic.
Gulfam understood his medical condition and although that helped him go through each day, the pain persisted. The visible wound on his face did not just contort his sense of physical self but also turned into a source of deep seated mental distress. He was rendered anxious and overwhelmed as the questions he had were left unanswered. Raised eyebrows in the society around him and the toll it took on his family all added to the heavy emotional burden he carried with him.
His struggle was further aggravated by the financial constraints. As a husband and a father, he was stressed about his family. The thought of them having to face hardships in order to manage the household occupied his mind.
Upon learning about his situation, CanSupport was prompt in making efforts to relieve him from his worries. The team, with sheer compassion and empathy, committed to providing consistent support to Gulfam and his family. Starting with educating them about nursing and taking care of the wound, they also gave guidance regarding medication. To help with the economic strain, ration support was extended which greatly decreased the day to day stress.
Above all, the counselling sessions truly aided in making Gulfam feel that his life was not done for. The interactions with the counsellor and other team members offered him a safe space to be heard, to express himself, and share what bothered him. Through the conversations where eager and earnest ears heard him out, he slowly developed a new perspective. He realised that his life may have been altered but it was still worth living with dignity. What he needed was courage and reassurance that he was not alone. The team reminded him of his inner strength to not wallow in despair but move forth with determination.
The transformation that has been brought about with the continued visits is remarkable and as he carries on with his fight, Gulfam has embraced his vulnerabilities, found his resilience to remain brave and trudge forward as he knows that CanSupport is by him and his family’s side.
(Picture in display is representation of CanSupport Home care Services)
To protect the privacy of the patient and the family, the name/s in the story have been changed. There are many people who need palliative care but they don’t know where to go. While CanSupport is doing its best the reach out to people informing them about their services, we request you to spread the word.
Share our Helpline Number +91 11 4101 0539 / +91 98990 11212 (Mon to Sat 9 am to 6 pm) with all the needy people. Though all CanSupport services are free of charge for patients, the cost of reaching out to patients and caring for them cost ₹1,350 per visit per patient.
If you would like to support our cause, please donate at https://cansupport.org/donations/home-based-palliative-care/.
