Real Stories, Real Journeys

📍 Diagnosis:

Multiple Myeloma

🩺 Condition Treated:

I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells — the white blood cells responsible for producing antibodies. This condition typically occurs in people over the age of 55 and is often difficult to detect early due to the lack of visible symptoms.

In my case, the initial signs were breathlessness and unexplained weight loss, but nothing alarming at first glance. Internally, however, the disease had already begun affecting my spine and bones, a common but often hidden symptom of Multiple Myeloma.

Despite undergoing routine health check-ups before retiring from NTPC, nothing was detected. Later, during some household shifting at my Kolkata residence, I sustained a chest injury. I consulted an orthopedic specialist, but the pain persisted without a clear diagnosis.

Following the advice of my elder brother, Prof. Bitan Kr. Chattopadhyay — former Head of Surgery at PG Hospital — I met with Dr. Sivaresmi Unnithan, a pulmonologist at Fortis Hospital, Kolkata. She recommended advanced imaging tests like MRI and CT scans, which finally led to the diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma.

Treatment Journey

My chemotherapy began in November 2022, with a weekly regimen that included:

• Bortezomib (injection)
• Lenalidomide and Decdan (oral tablets)

After 3–4 months, my cancer markers returned to normal levels. Based on this improvement, my medical team recommended an Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) — a treatment where my own healthy stem cells were used to replace the damaged ones.

I was admitted to Apollo Hospital on 15th May 2023, and the transplant was successfully performed on 24th May 2023. I was discharged on 6th June 2023, after about three weeks of intensive care and recovery.

A Cautionary Turn After Recovery

Post-transplant, I began regular follow-ups with Dr. Anupam Chakrapani, visiting every three months for specialized blood tests. Feeling stronger and with my doctor’s approval, I planned a long-awaited family tour to Gujarat from 19th February to 29th February 2024.

However, just two days after returning — on 1st March 2024 — I suddenly lost consciousness at Apollo Hospital while submitting a routine blood sample. I was immediately moved to the ICU, placed on a ventilator, and diagnosed with:

• Severe viral pneumonia
• Critical COPD complications, worsened by my past smoking habit
• Kidney failure, requiring eight rounds of dialysis

My doctors explained that, despite feeling well, my immunity was still very low post-BMT, and the exposure during travel led to a dangerous viral attack. I was admitted to the Critical Care Unit (CCU) from 1st March to 1st April 2024, where all major departments at Apollo Hospital were involved in saving my life:

During this period, I was placed on ventilator support twice, and at one point, urine output completely stopped. It was one of the most critical phases of my life.

The Power of Support — My Jolu 83 Batchmates

In those darkest hours, the unwavering support from my Jolu 1983 batchmates became a pillar of strength for me and my family. They were not just checking in — they were actively coordinating with doctors, forming a panel of medical experts to evaluate my condition, and helping decide the next course of treatment when things looked uncertain.

More than that, they were a lifeline for my wife, Pushpita. They ensured she was brought safely to the hospital, stood by her emotionally, and arranged for her comfort and logistical support during my hospitalization.

Their compassion, presence, and swift action went far beyond friendship — they were family. I will always carry this deep sense of gratitude and admiration for them in my heart.

💬 Personal Feedback:

A Message from My Experience I’ve learned, through personal highs and unimaginable lows, that: • Recovery is a process — not an endpoint • Post-treatment care and caution are just as important as the treatment itself • And that community and connection can be powerful medicine My story is a reminder to those recovering from serious illnesses — especially those who’ve undergone procedures like bone marrow transplants — to avoid overexertion, limit exposure, and consult doctors before making any travel or lifestyle changes. At the same time, I want others facing unexplained symptoms — like fatigue, weight loss, or persistent pain — to trust their instincts, seek specialist opinions early, and never delay critical diagnostics. Above all, I hope this story encourages people to value the relationships that hold us up, especially when everything else seems to fall apart.

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