Philanthropy

Poonam, a hopeful 29-year-old mother-to-be, had been counting the days to hold her baby in her arms. She imagined those first moments of motherhood to be filled with joy and peace, but life took an unexpected turn. What seemed like simple pregnancy discomfort soon grew into a sharp, persistent pain that refused to leave even after childbirth. When she finally sought medical help, her world shattered. The diagnosis was devastating Carcinoma of the Rectum. In an instant, her dream of a happy beginning was replaced by fear, uncertainty, and the terrifying thought of not being there for her newborn.

As the pain deepened, so did her worries. The treatment and surgery at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC) were urgent, yet the estimated cost of ₹6.5 lakh was far beyond what her modest family could manage. With a new baby to care for and a life-threatening illness closing in, Poonam felt trapped between her will to fight and the unbearable weight of financial helplessness. Each day that passed increased the risk, and the fear of leaving her child without a mother tore at her heart.

Amid this darkness, RGCIRC became her source of hope. Seeing the urgency of her condition and the fragile circumstances of the family, the Patient Welfare Department stepped forward with unwavering compassion. Their efforts opened a door that changed everything: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) extended a generous ₹3 lakh corporate grant. This support broke the financial barrier standing between Poonam and her treatment, ensuring she could undergo the complex surgery and receive the care she desperately needed.

Today, Poonam is healing, rebuilding, and returning to life with renewed strength. She is back at home, holding her baby close, her heart full of gratitude for the kindness that saved her. For her family, BPCL’s support was more than financial help.

Shalu Yadav, a 28-year-old woman from Delhi, was dedicatedly preparing for the civil services examinations in Mukherjee Nagar, determined to achieve her dreams. Initially she experienced a right breast lump and associated pain, symptoms she had been experiencing for five months. She had initially sought treatment at a local hospital, but the medication provided no relief.

Following the persistent lump, Shalu visited St. Stephen’s Hospital in Delhi, where she underwent surgery and subsequent examination. It was there that she received the devastating diagnosis of Breast Cancer. The news was a profound shock to the young woman and her family.

Fortunately, a family member recommended RGCIRC for further investigation and treatment. On June 18, 2025, Shalu presented at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC)

The estimated cost for her comprehensive treatment was approximately ₹5 lakhs. To secure the necessary funds, Shalu was advised to consult the Patient Welfare Department at RGCIRC. Through their assistance, she was successfully approved for ₹2.80 lakhs in financial aid for her cancer treatment from the Indian Cancer Society (ICS), Mumbai.

Shalu Yadav expressed her complete satisfaction with the hospital and the compassionate care she received.

She extended her heartfelt gratitude to both ICS Mumbai and RGCIRC for providing the crucial financial assistance needed for her cancer treatment. Her family is immensely relieved and deeply appreciative of the timely intervention by both organizations. Their contribution has made a world of difference in Shalu’s battle against Breast Cancer, securing a brighter future for her and restoring hope to her family.

Mohd. Khurshid Akhtar a 56-year-old man from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He earned his livelihood from doing a Private Job. He was leading a simple and healthy life. But suddenly his health worsened, and he had to visit a nearby hospital in Lucknow. There he underwent an ultrasound examination which revealed that his appendix was in poor condition. Doctors recommended immediate medical attention, and he began his treatment from there. But he wasn’t satisfied, and it was not cured.

For further treatment he consulted Lohia Hospital in Lucknow where a diagnostic test was conducted. It was found that his appendix had ruptured which led to severe complications. The people advised him to seek specialized treatment RGCIRC. He underwent further treatment in RGCIRC where Khurshid was placed under the care of Dr. Shivendra Singh, an experienced oncologist. After comprehensive tests and evaluations, it was found that he had been suffering from CA Appendix. The estimated cost of treatment was around ₹8 lakhs. For getting funds he was advised to consult patient welfare department of RGCIRC. He was approved of 3 lakhs rupees for treatment of cancer from GAIL India limited. He was completely satisfied with the hospital and its work.

He expressed his heartfelt thanks to GAIL India limited and RGCIRC to provide financial assistance for his Cancer treatment. His family are immensely relieved and deeply grateful for the timely intervention by GAIL and RGCIRC. Their contribution has made a world of difference in Akhtar’s battle against CA Appendix which secure a brighter future for him and brings hope to his family.

Nikhil, a 21-year-old student, initially developed a high fever that didn’t respond to standard medications. Concerned, his family took him to a local hospital where blood tests revealed an elevated total leukocyte count (TLC). The treating doctor warned that this could indicate cancer and referred him to PGIMER Chandigarh for further evaluation.

After extensive investigations in Chandigarh, Nikhil was diagnosed with <a href=”https://www.rgcirc.org/patient-family/types-of-cancer/acute-myeloid-leukemia-aml/”>acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)</a>. In search of specialized care, his family travelled on their own to the RGCIRC in New Delhi, where a specialist confirmed that Nikhil urgently needed immediate treatment.

Unfortunately, the cost of chemotherapy was far beyond what Nikhil’s family could afford. Recognizing their predicament, the medical team referred him to RGCIRC’s Patient Welfare Department. Long-term treatment for leukaemia is both emotionally taxing and financially overwhelming, not just for the patient but for the entire family.

Amid this crisis, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) stepped in through its CSR program and approved a ₹3 lakh grant to fund Nikhil’s chemotherapy. With the grant in place, Nikhil was able to start his chemotherapy. He is now recovering well and showing positive signs of improvement. His family is relieved and deeply thankful for the timely support.