On #wcmld25, as we celebrate the progress in CML care and advocacy we also reaffirm our call for equitable access to emotional, informational and practical support for every patient and caregiver—everywhere.
Together with The Max Foundation, treating institutions and physicians, we’ve planned a week full of activities to ensure no patient gets left behind.
Leaving no patient behind…
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GLIMPSES from the CML Patient & Caregivers Support Group Meeting organised at KEM Hospital, Mumbai at the Hematology OPD with Dr Chandrakala, Clinical Hematologist on 17 September 2025.
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GLIMPSES FROM THE World CML Day 2025 celebration with Dr Alok Shetty, Associate Professor
(Adult HematoLymphoid Unit), Dept. of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and newly diagnosed CML patients and their caregivers at the weekly MPN Clinic held at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai on 17 September 2025.
Joining in were The Max Foundation India team members from Mumbai.
As part of clinic’s weekly practice, the session is led by Dr. Alok Shetty, who patiently explains what Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is and addresses common questions faced by a fresh batch of newly diagnosed patients and their caregivers.
Every batch of patients is counselled by the Max team volunteers and encouraged to freely share their doubts and ask their queries from the doctor.
Sharing of disease related information material and patient testimonial stories (created and designed by physicians for FOM) further provide hope, clarity, and confidence for everyone beginning their journey with CML.
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#WCMLD25 CELEBRATIONS AT NIMS, HYDERABAD
Dr. Sadashivudu has been organizing these World CML Day meetings for over a decade, and the strong, supportive community he has nurtured over the years is truly inspiring. The event began with a heartfelt address by Dr. Sadashivudu, who spoke about the enduring partnership between the hospital, The Max Foundation and Friends of Max- a partnership that has made a tangible difference in patients’ lives. Following this, FOM patient leaders shared their personal journeys. Their stories were powerful, inspiring, and deeply moving, setting a tone of hope, encouragement, and resilience that resonated with everyone in the room.
The medical session followed, as always, and was a highlight of the day. Patients asked questions ranging from those who had been managing their condition for over fifteen years to those newly diagnosed. Dr. Sadashivudu and his team answered every query with patience, expertise, and empathy, offering guidance and reassurance that left a lasting impact.
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#WCMLD25 Celebrations at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Hospital Jaipur on 20 September 2025
With patience and empathy, physicians addressed questions that mattered most, while patients found the courage to share their journeys—from the uncertainty of a new diagnosis to the resilience of those who have lived with treatment for over 20 years. Each story was a testament to strength and perseverance, inspiring everyone present.
Every patient was warmly felicitated and applauded, honoring not just their fight but their unwavering spirit. The hall echoed with heartfelt moments, deep learning, and meaningful discussions that left an indelible mark on everyone who attended.
The atmosphere was warm, uplifting, and truly magical, reminding us of the extraordinary power of shared experiences. Gatherings like these strengthen the bond between patients, caregivers, and physicians, and remind us that together, we can face any challenge with courage and hope.
We thank Dr Hemanth Malhotra & Dr Lalit Sharma for giving FOM this opportunity, year after year.
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#WCMLD25 Celebrations at PGIMER CHANDIGARH on 28 September 2025
It has been a tradition that Dr. Pankaj Malhotra, Head of Medical Oncology and Clinical Hematology at PGIMER brings patients and caregivers together for a Support Group Meeting on World CML Day. This year marked the 10th such gathering, held on 28th September. The Max Foundation India together with Friends of Max took part in the event.
Over 500 patients and caregivers from four different states came together in Chandigarh, with nearly half experiencing this gathering for the very first time. The atmosphere was electric with energy and hope. Patients not only engaged in the Q&A session but also stood up to share their journeys, milestones, and life beyond a cancer diagnosis. Their courage and optimism filled the room, reminding us that the true spirit of World CML Day lies in unity—standing beside each other, uplifting one another, and celebrating the extraordinary power of resilience.
The highlight of the meeting was the launch of a new booklet on FOM’s Project Shiksha beneficiaries. Stories of 12 young minds (written by Viji Venkatesh, Managing Trustee, FOM) — children whose lives were disrupted by a diagnosis of CML, yet who continue to go to school, play with their friends and siblings, and live their childhoods with courage and hope, thanks to the education support they receive under Project Shiksha .
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Voices of Patient Leaders
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