Physicians, Patients and Caregivers share thoughts on their association with Friends of Max and its work
“Thank you to The Max Foundation and Friends of Max for providing a platform where patients can share their thoughts with each other and get their queries answered by physicians.
It not only helps long-term patients like us but also newly diagnosed patients through shared experiences. I urge all patients to actively participate in such meetings, just as I do.”
Prashant Kumar Jain , diagnosed with CML in 2007, Indore
Prashant attended the Support Group Meeting in Indore on 14 December 2025.
“I value the great organization and meaningful conduct of the meeting of the Indore CML Patient Support Group by The Max Foundation. The program was well-planned, very informative, and patient-centric, with much emphasis on not only the medical aspects of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia but also on the emotional, psychological, and social needs of the patients and caregivers.
These sessions amply emphasized the importance of adherence to treatment, regular monitoring, and timely testing, while simultaneously providing an open platform for the sharing of experiences and clarification of doubts through interactive discussions with medical experts. Such initiatives go a long way in empowering patients with knowledge, reducing anxiety, and leading to better long-term treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.
I would like to extend my special appreciation to Ms. Beena Narayanan, Regional Head – India, The Max Foundation, for her visionary leadership and continued commitment to patient welfare. My sincere thanks to Ms. Ashika Naik, Programme Officer, The Max Foundation, for her diligent effort in coordinating and executing the program seamlessly. I acknowledge Ms. Amruta Patidar, Trustee, Friends of Max, for her valued contribution and unwavering support in strengthening patient engagement and community outreach.
Overall, the Indore meeting stands out as an epitome of collaboration among health professionals, patient support groups, and The Max Foundation. I firmly believe and support such kinds of meaningful initiatives, which go a long way in enhancing treatment adherence, clinical outcomes, and the overall quality of life of CML patients.”
Dr Manish Nema, Haemato-oncologist, CHL Apollo Hospital
Dr Manish Nema attended the Support Group Meeting in Indore on 14 December 2025.
“My wife and I never miss a meeting. Each gathering fills us with immense gratitude and a sense of blessing to be part of this wonderful community. We eagerly look forward to every session, and we are deeply thankful to The Max Foundation and Friends of Max for their tireless efforts in providing educational materials, interactive Q&A sessions, and lively workshops. These meetings not only enrich our knowledge but also strengthen our bond with this inspiring group.”
Sudeb Kumar Das, caregiver to his wife Mithu Das, who was diagnosed with CML in 2007
Sudeb attended the Patient Support Group meeting held at Tata Medical Center, Kolkata on 15 November 2025
“Patients’ Meet is always a top priority in my family. We have attended every one since this group was conceived. Every meeting is permeated by strong comradeship of soldiers fighting man’s worst enemy Cancer. The charisma of Amma and her dedicated team at FOM and Max Foundation have made these meetings so meaningful and knowledgeable. It is indeed an Oasis of data on CML which both encourages and benefits us in so many vital areas. These meetings are a blend of awe at the survival of so many, light picnic-like interactions, while also carrying a quiet sadness for those who are no longer with us.
Let me end with a Quote from the school anthem of St Xaviers School, Calcutta “Hand in hand onwards we go helping the weak, the lame and the sore”. Let me also add that FOM and Max Foundation have not only helped the sore but have extracted nearly all from the jaws of death.”
Sushmita Sen, caregiver to her husband Subir, who was diagnosed with CML in 2001
Sushmita attended the Patient Support Group meeting held at Tata Medical Center, Kolkata on 15 November 2025
“I am a caregiver and an active volunteer at Friends of Max and The Max Foundation, an organization that provides medicines to CML patients. Volunteering there brings me immense happiness and satisfaction. I sincerely encourage all CML patients to attend this annual event. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet the doctors in person, discuss your concerns, and receive valuable guidance.
Support Group Meetings gives me strength- It helps us walk this journey with more confidence because we learn so much from other patients and caregivers.”
Souvik Das, caregiver to his father, Satya Ranjan Das, who was diagnosed with CML in 2000
Souvik attended the Patient Support Group meeting held at Tata Medical Center, Kolkata on 15 November 2025
“This was a very meaningful and much-needed session, important for the patients’ mental well-being. They felt much lighter and relieved after the session. It was especially helpful in clarifying that CML is not a cancer, but a chronic disease.”
Sandeep, Caregiver, Delhi
Sandeep attended the MPN/CML Patient Support Group Meeting, held on 17th October 2025 at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram.
“It was really a nice session. It was also a very motivating session and after attending it, it filled my mind with positivity. Thanks a lot for inspiring patients and caregivers who are feeling depressed with their diagnosis. We are in need of such support.”
Albert, Diagnosed in 2025, Gurugram, Haryana
Albert attended the MPN/CML Patient Support Group Meeting, held on 17th October 2025 at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram.
“The meeting witnessed a wonderful interaction between doctors, caregivers and CML patients. A takeaway message for all of us should be that we cannot allow cancer to cripple us, nor can we allow it to break us. We have two choices, to cry and fret or to fight, hope and win. Let us make the right choice, because this life that we are living presently is a GIFT, let us live well and wisely. Our minds have the power to heal our bodies, so keep your will power strong and also the will to live, alive. If our will power is stronger than our disease, we begin the healing process at that very moment. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you think. You still have the right to dream and make your dreams come true. Remember to take one day at a time, and know that you are not alone in this fight. We are not survivors, we are Yoddhas- warriors and we never give up 😄✌️”
Dr Gayatri Bhat, Patient Advocate and Counsellor, Yoddas & MFCT India
Dr Gayatri attended the MPN/CML Patient Support Group Meeting, held on 17th October 2025 at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram.
“I have been attending the Chandigarh meetings for over 2 decades now, to me it feels like meeting a big family. Sharing stories of hope, learnings and smiles is what it’s all about for me. It makes me feel immensely grateful and blessed to be part of this program and receiving medicine from The Max Foundation and Novartis. I personally always look forward to these meetups and make sure to attend.
I believe that we can lead a fulfilling and happy life by staying compliant to the treatment- this is what I would like to say to the other patients.”
Kuldeep Goel, Diagnosed in 2003, Ambala, Haryana
Kuldeep attended the World CML Day Meeting, held at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh on 28th September 2025.
“I have been a CML patient since 2014 . I attended the CML group meeting for the second time and my experience is always positive towards the meeting. As we gather together, these gatherings transform the isolating experience of living with CML into a shared journey of resilience and empowerment. “Don’t count the days, make the days count.” My message to fellow patients & their families is, “focus on living your life fully, enjoying the present moment, and finding joy in every day.”
Sagar Yadav, Diagnosed in 2014, Jalandhar, Punjab
Sagar attended the World CML Day Meeting, held at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh on 28th September 2025.
“The meeting was an enriching experience for CML patients and their caregivers to interact with faculty of doctors & get on the spot satisfactory answers to their various problems being faced by patients during treatment. The Max Foundation and Friends of Max deserve appreciation for serving the cause of Cancer patients. When patients share their experiences & stories in the meeting, the other patients feel inspired. My conclusion as a caregiver from the last three decades: Hope sustains life. Charity begins from home to best serve the cancer patients. Sometimes, some battles are won through devotion, service and commitment.”
Vinod Sood, Caregiver, Ludhiana, Punjab
Vinod attended the World CML Day Meeting, held at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh on 28th September 2025.
“It brings me immense joy to attend the Jaipur meetings, knowing that socially under- privileged CML patients benefit from the support of The Max Foundation and Friends of Max. Having been part of the program for nearly two decades, I am deeply grateful for it. I look forward to attending future meetings, where patients leave with valuable learnings, renewed hope and a strong sense of dignity.”
Lokeshdev Mehta, Diagnosed in 2005, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Lokeshdev attended the World CML Day Meeting held at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (MGMCH) in Jaipur, on 20 September 2025.
“Attending the Jaipur meeting and meeting The Max Foundation and Friends of Max teams fills my heart with happiness. After two decades of treatment, I live a happy life. My simple message to fellow CML patients is – ‘Swasth, Vyasth, Masth raho’ (be healthy, busy, and enjoy life). For me, CML stands for ‘Cheering My Life’.”
Kanwaljeet Singh, Diagnosed in 2005, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Kanwaljeet attended the World CML Day Meeting held at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (MGMCH) in Jaipur, on 20 September 2025.
My wife has been living with CML for 18 years and is doing well. We make it a point to attend all the Jaipur meetings, where the medical panel sessions are most valuable where doctors patiently address every question. The fearless journeys shared by fellow patients have been a great source of inspiration to us. These gatherings bring hope to newly diagnosed CML patients by dispelling their doubts. Meeting the Friends of Max and The Max Foundation teams in person is always a joy, and we remain deeply grateful for the donated Glivec tablet by Novartis and The Max Foundation.
Krishanawtar Sharma, Caregiver, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Krishanawtar Sharma attended the World CML Day Meeting held at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (MGMCH) in Jaipur, on 20 September 2025
“On Saturday, 13th September, we had an energizing and engaging meeting with many first-time attendees. There was clear excitement as participants connected with others facing similar medical challenges while living fulfilling lives. The event, organized by The Max Foundation and Friends of Max supported by Avantor, was flawless. A special thanks to the physicians for conducting an insightful Q&A session. The storytelling activity allowed patients to express their feelings openly, creating a sense of camaraderie. Avantor’s sponsorship of two BCR-ABL tests for each participant at no cost was greatly appreciated, and it contributed to an overwhelming response. The diagnostic partner also provided excellent support and conducted the tests efficiently. Overall, the tests were a key factor in encouraging such a strong turnout, and we hope this continues to drive attendance at future meetings.
Thank you Avantor, FOM, The Max Foundation and Ruby Hall Clinic for making this event possible.”
Shashikant Jakhade, CML Survivor, Pune
Shashikant Jakhade attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held the Cancer Center, Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on Saturday, 13 Sept 2025.
“I was thoroughly impressed with the arrangements and the manner in which Dr. Ramanan conducted the Q&A session. His use of clear and accessible language made complex topics easy to understand. Additionally, the storytelling workshop was exceptional, providing a supportive environment where everyone felt comfortable expressing themselves without hesitation.
I would also like to commend Friends of Max for their invaluable contribution in offering testing facilities at no cost to patients. This initiative is highly beneficial and greatly appreciated by all of us.”
Aun rRambhau Ghotkule, CML survivor, Pune
Arun Rambhau Ghotkule attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held the Cancer Center, Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on Saturday, 13 Sept 2025.
“I had the privilege of moderating today’s CML Patient Support Group Meeting, and I’m thrilled to share that the session was an absolute superhit! The energy, engagement, and heartfelt participation from patients, caregivers and experts made it truly special. We discussed real challenges, shared inspiring survivor stories and explored the latest treatment advances and lifestyle strategies for living well with CML. The open conversations, thoughtful questions and mutual encouragement created a space of hope & strength. I’m grateful to everyone who joined and made this meeting so impactful. Together, we are building not just a support group, but a movement of resilience and empowerment for all those touched by CML.
Looking forward to many more such sessions where we continue to learn, support and grow—stronger, together..”
Dr. Vijay Ramanan – Clinical Hematologist, Hemato-Oncologist and Head Bone Marrow Transplant, Cancer Centre, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune
Dr Vijay Ramanan attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held the Cancer Center, Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on Saturday, 13 Sept 2025.
“This was my 3rd Bengaluru meeting, and I have been on Glivec for over a decade. I am grateful to The Max Foundation for a dignified life and for supporting my children’s education through Project Shiksha. I also thank my treating physicians for their valuable interaction during the session. The workshop encouraged me to share my thoughts, and I look forward to future meetings.”
Sayed Kareem Sayed Peer Sab, CML Survivor, Bengaluru
Sayed Kareem Sayed Peer Sab attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, A centre of excellence at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru on Saturday, 30 August 2025.
“I have been part of the program since 2008, but due to my work schedule I could not attend earlier meetings. This Bengaluru meeting was truly special , my first — the medical panel was very informative, and the workshop gave me the chance to share my story. Grateful to The Max Foundation team and looking forward to the next meet.”
Chidambaran K.S. , CML Survivor, Bengaluru
Chidambaran attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, A centre of excellence at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru on Saturday, 30 August 2025.
“The Bengaluru Meeting was my first and truly unique experience. Both CML and GIST patients expressed their appreciation, especially valuing the medical interaction session, which provided useful information to support their self-care and long-term health. The Max Foundation and Friends of Max set a wonderful example of how a PSGM should be conducted. The facilities were excellent, with well-organized monitoring tests at no cost for patients, an engaging workshop, and good food.”
Dr Santosh Devadas, HOD & Consultant – Department of Medical Oncology & Chief-Bone Marrow Transplant, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru
Dr Santosh Devadas attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, A centre of excellence at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru on Saturday, 30 August 2025.
“The Patient Support Program is a wonderful platform that helps patients gain a deeper understanding of their disease, encourages them to ask questions, take an active role in their medical care, and even begin considering treatment-free remission with greater confidence. Our heartfelt thanks to The Max Foundation and Friends of Max for their steadfast support—from the time when Imatinib was beyond the reach of the common man to today, when we are exploring the possibility of stopping treatment altogether.”
Dr Sanjukta Rao, Haematologist and BMT Physician, St John’s Hospital, Bengaluru
Dr Sanjukta Rao attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Ramaiah Institute of Oncosciences, A centre of excellence at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru on Saturday, 30 August 2025.
“Though we have been part of the program for over a decade, we were unaware of CML, its diagnosis, or treatment options. We would simply meet the physician and collect the donated medicine. This was our very first Support Group Meeting, and we are deeply thankful to The Max Foundation and Friends of Max for inviting us, providing educational materials, the Physician Q&A session, raising awareness about the disease, and offering no-cost BCR-ABL testing — we are going back home with knowledge and hope.”
Kalidasan, CML Survivor and Caregiver, Sathiya, Tirupur, Tamil Nadu
Kalidasan attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Sri Ramakrishna Multi Speciality Hospital in Coimbatore on 20 July 2025.
“After nearly two decades in the program, this is my first Patient Support Group Meeting in my own city. Back when I was diagnosed, there was very little awareness about CML. Thanks to The Max Foundation and Friends of Max for their support, education, and workshops, today there is more hope than ever — early diagnosis and treatment mean a longer life for patients like us.”
Balasubhalakshmi – CML Survivor, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Balasubhalakshmi attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Sri Ramakrishna Multi Speciality Hospital in Coimbatore on 20 July 2025.
“After 15 years in the program, thanks to The Max Foundation for donating Glivec, I attended my first meeting and shared this special moment with my granddaughter — meeting fellow survivors and finally meeting the Max team, whom we had only spoken to on the phone, has given me hope and courage.”
Chandrakala – CML Survivor, Tirupur, Tamil Nadu
Chandrakala attended the Patient Support Group Meeting held at Sri Ramakrishna Multi Speciality Hospital in Coimbatore on 20 July 2025.