“In 2013, during my final semester of BA.LLB, I received a diagnosis that would change my life forever: Stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma which is a type of cancer that affects lymph nodes. The word ‘cancer’ was new to me, my family, and everyone I knew. Initially, I hesitated to start Chemotherapy for two reasons: I wanted to complete my studies, and I feared the side effects of the treatment. By the time I graduated, the cancer had progressed to its final stage. During this period, I explored alternative treatments.
In April 2014, I moved to Bangalore to pursue my MBA. However, just two months later, I discovered that the cancer had spread to my bone marrow.
In June, I relocated to Hyderabad and began a rigorous treatment regimen: 12 cycles of ABVD Chemotherapy at the Indo-American Cancer Hospital under the guidance of Dr. Senthil Rajappa. The journey was challenging, but with the unwavering support of my family and a strong sense of self-determination, I persevered.
In 2015, I took up yoga and started working out at the gym to rebuild my immunity. By 2016, I was ready to re-enter the workforce. However, I faced rejections initially due to my medical history, doubting my ability to handle work pressure. This setback was a turning point. I was determined to break the stigma surrounding Cancer and Chemotherapy.
In March 31, 2016, I embarked on a solo journey across India to raise cancer awareness. It took me a month to arrange the necessary finances. With the support of my family and five close friends, I launched the ‘Ride of Hope’ campaign.
On May 1, 2016, I began my journey from Raipur, Chhattisgarh. I traveled through Nagpur, Pune, and then down the western coast, heading north. Over five months, I covered 20,000 kilometers, visiting 15 states, cancer institutes, schools, and offices. During these visits, I shared my cancer journey and provided guidance on dos and don’ts during and after treatment. The ‘Ride of Hope’ campaign was acknowledged and awarded the title of SelfV Survivor’s Story Winner by Ducati India and HCG Cancer Institute at their annual meet.
In 2017, I was honored to be recognized among the top 5 riders of India by Wrangler’s True Wanderer. I embarked on a challenging journey, traveling 5,000 kilometers in 5 days from Dhanushkodi to Rann of Kutch, capturing the true culture and essence of our beloved country.
The Ride of Hope campaign was also featured on MTV India’s ‘Chase The Monsoon 5’ and covered by leading newspapers.
Today, I counsel cancer patients and lead a group called ‘Riders of Hope,’ which arranges free blood donations across India. I also participate in marathons to raise awareness and volunteer at social events. I aim to complete the remaining states of my campaign, extending it beyond India’s borders.
While eradicating cancer immediately may not be possible, we can certainly create more awareness and work towards a cancer-free world.
Let’s make fighting cancer cool.”
- Harteij Bhartesh, Cancer Conqueror
Initiator, Ride of Hope