“Excellence in Patient Advocacy & Empowerment” Award

On World Cancer Day, I am deeply humbled to recieve the “Excellence in Patient Advocacy & Empowerment” award, presented by the Health Minister of India of last tenure and senior bureaucrat of Government of India, in the presence of esteemed national and international dignitaries in New Delhi.

This recognition comes from my volunteer work as a patient advocate – standing with cancer patients and caregivers, and working towards a more compassionate, accessible, and patient-focused cancer care system in India.

I accept this award on behalf of every cancer patient and caregiver who struggles not just with illness, but with delays, lack of access and affordability – and whose lived experience deserves to be heard, respected, and reflected in health policy.

I remain hopeful that when policymakers return to decision-making forums, the patient voices shared and the conversations we held will continue to inform their choices.

The work continues – with empathy, courage, love, and hope ….and for my Kusum Malik Tomar 💙