12 May, 2025
12 May, 2025
Each patient's cancer story is a story of strength, hope, and transformation.
This time, we are back with the cancer survivor story of Mitali Mukherjee, whose cancer journey started with a routine visit to a general hospital but ended with a life-changing event.
Read this patient success story till the end to find out how Mithali conquered breast cancer and how she is doing today.
Mitali first went to the general hospital when she saw some atypical symptoms around her left breast. The thorough examination, including a mammogram and ultrasound (USG), indicated the presence of a tumor.
These findings left Mithali and her family in immense distress, fear, and uncertainty.
However, there was a silver lining.
Mithali’s family members had heard of HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, even before her diagnosis. They were aware of its reputation in cancer care and the positive outcomes associated with its expert team.
Determined to seek the best possible care, she reached out to HCG, which marked the next chapter of her breast cancer story.
Initially, she met Dr. Sashanka Sekhar Das, a highly experienced medical oncologist who guided her through her diagnosis and helped her understand the need for a multimodal treatment plan for her case.
Mitali felt comfortable not only because of the doctor's expertise but also because of his calm demeanor and ability to empathize.
HCG’s multidisciplinary approach proved to be a turning point in Mitali’s breast cancer experience. After consulting with Dr. Karan Sehgal, one of the leading surgical oncologists at HCG Kolkata, her breast cancer treatment plan was personalized to her condition and preferences.
Initially, Mitali's family leaned toward a mastectomy — the complete removal of the affected breast.
Their concern was rooted in fear; they wanted to eliminate all risks by removing the organ completely. However, Dr. Karan Sehgal recommended a more conservative but equally effective option —lumpectomy, or breast-conserving surgery, a surgical procedure aimed at removing the tumor while preserving as much of the breast as possible.
Dr. Sehgal assured the family that lumpectomy, combined with oncoplastic surgery, would not only address the disease but also help maintain the natural appearance of the breast.
This approach resonated with Mitali. She appreciated the thoughtfulness of the team and the way they balanced oncological safety with quality of life.
The surgery went well, and she was discharged from the hospital after a few days under observation. This surgery, aimed at breast conservation, made her feel more empowered in her journey as a breast cancer survivor.
With the tumor removed, Mitali returned for a follow-up consultation. Dr. Sashanka Sekhar Das then advised her to undergo four cycles of chemotherapy, followed by 30 fractions of radiation therapy, to ensure any remaining cancer cells were eradicated.
Despite her fears, Mitali found both the chemotherapy and radiation therapy phases manageable. Her breast cancer journey was supported at every step by the team at HCG, who ensured she was comfortable, informed, and emotionally cared for.
Mitali, now in remission, goes for her routine checkups at HCG every three months. There has been no recurrence of cancer found in her tests, and she continues her normal active life.
“HCG gave me hope when I needed it the most,” she says. “They didn’t just treat my illness; they treated me with care, respect, and compassion. Every person — from the doctors to the nurses to the support staff — played a vital role in my healing process.”
Her son concurs with her opinion and expresses deep gratitude for the support the team has provided to his family at such a difficult time. Mitali and her son thank the HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, for giving her a chance at life again.
Lumpectomy, or breast-conserving surgery, is a surgical approach for breast cancer that involves the removal of the tumor, along with a small portion of healthy tissue that surrounds it.
Lumpectomy is recommended in breast cancer cases where the tumor comprises less than 20% of the breast volume and is localized to the organ. In other words, this procedure is recommended in early breast cancer stages.
In some cases, lumpectomy can be performed as an outpatient procedure. BCS benefits patients in multiple ways—patients get to save their breasts; fewer complications and reduced blood loss due to smaller incisions; reduced damage to healthy tissues; better quality of life; and preservation of body image and confidence.
Mitali Mukherjee's breast cancer patient story greatly symbolizes how expert medical care, a heart full of compassion, and a complete treatment plan can lead to recovery and renewed strength. The journey through her trials from diagnosis to remission is an illustration of the very crucial concepts of early detection, informed choice, and personalized care.
We will soon be back with another story of a cancer survivor. Until then, stay tuned.
