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Devasted family seeks help for cancer-stricken brother

DUBAI - Thankappan Jaya Sekhar realised how vunerable life was was when suddenly one day, he found out that he was suffering from bone marrow cancer. In all his healthy 44 years, Thankappan had never visited a doctor for more than a routine flu and fever check up.

"One day, after undergoing tests to check the reason behind the sudden bouts of tiredness, Thankappan was shocked when he was told by the doctor that he was suffering from bone marrow cancer, in other words multiple myeloma," said Raj Kumar, the younger brother of Thankappan.

Thankappan's life changed overnight as he had to leave for treatment in India. "His wife accompanied him, and because his two children could not live without their parents, they too had to leave. The whole household was shocked and affected by this sudden turn in their peaceful lives," said Mr Kumar sadly.

Giving details, Mr Raj Kumar said, "Almost six months ago, Thankappan complained of tiredness especially while climbing stairs and even walking. He was also complaining of cough and chest congestion." "We had a check up done at Rashid Hospital in Dubai but all was clear, until a blood test was done," said Mr Kumar, adding, "even then nothing was clear in the first report."

Mr Kumar said that, meanwhile, the Christian Medical College at Vellore in Madras, India, was contacted and the final report declared that Thankappan was suffering from cancer.

"According to the doctor's report, Thankappan was to undergo the painful chemotherapy for six months, followed by autologous transplant and one year of interferon therapy," clarified Mr Kumar. The approximate cost the doctors said would be Rs10 lakh, he added. "The cost of treatment is too much for us to bear, and if left untreated, the result could be fatal," said Mr Kumar.