Apollo Cancer Centres, Vanagaram, has launched Apollo Nambikkai, a cancer survivorship support community designed to help survivors and caregivers remain connected, informed and supported after active treatment.
The initiative was introduced as part of a Cancer Survivors Programme that brought together approximately 100 cancer survivors and caregivers to recognise their journeys and acknowledge the challenges that can continue after treatment. The gathering also enabled survivors to reconnect with their care teams, share experiences and encourage those currently undergoing treatment.
Apollo Nambikkai will initially operate through Apollo Cancer Centres, Vanagaram, while remaining open to Apollo cancer survivors and caregivers across units, irrespective of where they received treatment. Membership will be free, with mobile registration available.
A dedicated WhatsApp community will help members remain engaged through expert sessions, survivor interactions, webinars, community meetings and guidance on nutrition, lifestyle, rehabilitation and psychological wellbeing. Oncologists, dietitians, mental health professionals and other members of the multidisciplinary team will contribute information addressing the physical, emotional and social aspects of survivorship.
The programme was attended by comedian and actor Mr. Badava Gopi as Special Guest. Also present were Mr. John Chandy, CBO, Group Oncology, Apollo Hospitals, and Mr. Kaarthik Ramamurthy, COO, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Vanagaram.
Commenting on Apollo’s broader vision for survivorship care, Mr. Chandy, said, “Cancer care goes beyond active treatment. Survivors often need continued medical, emotional and rehabilitative support as they return to everyday life. At Apollo, we see survivorship as an integral part of the cancer care journey. Through Apollo Nambikkai, we aim to build a supportive ecosystem that connects survivors and caregivers with the guidance, rehabilitation and peer support they need to move forward with greater confidence and quality of life.”
Cancer survivorship can involve ongoing medical follow-up, rehabilitation, emotional support, management of the longer-term effects of treatment, return to work and concerns about recurrence. By creating a structured community for survivors and caregivers, Apollo Nambikkai aims to extend support beyond active treatment and help individuals navigate life after cancer with reliable professional guidance and peer connection.
(Text and photo courtesy: apollohospitals.com)