Kerul Patel, Friends of Max City Chapter Leader from Mumbai, Maharashtra, is our Patient Advocate for October 2024.
Black Belt in Life: A True Symbol of Strength
Born in Mumbai, Kerul Patel learnt early in life the power of resilience and independence, having spent his formative years at a boarding school in Panchgani, Maharashtra. He returned to Mumbai for his undergraduate studies at Elphinstone College, where alongside academics, he pursued his passion for fitness in general and karate in particular.
Eager to continue his education, he moved to the United States, where he completed an MBA from the University of Hartford in 1995, followed by an MSc in Finance from Drexel University in 1997. After spending several years abroad, he returned to Mumbai in 1997 to settle for good.
In 2003, Kerul’s life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML). While the diagnosis was overwhelming, hope came in the form of The Max Foundation and Friends of Max (FOM), introduced to him by Dr. Sunil Parekh. Kerul says he remains grateful to The Max Foundation for providing him with Glivec, the magic bullet for CML patients, at no cost, for nearly two decades.
Despite his diagnosis, Kerul refuses to let CML define him. He continued to push his limits, achieving significant milestones- such as earning his 3rd Dan black belt in karate, all the while being on medication for his CML. This incredible feat has not only been a personal triumph for him but has been a symbol of strength for fellow CML patients as well.
Motivated by his own journey, today Kerul is an active member of Friends of Max. He enjoys sharing his CML journey and karate accomplishments with newly diagnosed patients. He takes great pride in easing their fears and offering hope. As he says, “Motivating new CMLers and diluting their initial fears of CML always gives me great pleasure.”
Kerul’s passion for FOM doesn’t stop here. He actively participates in fundraising efforts, including Chai for Cancer Addas, contributing to FOM’s mission of raising funds for CML patients and their families belonging to the weaker economic sections of society.
When he’s not working with FOM, Kerul’s life revolves around his loving family—he is happily married to Charita Patel (since Jan 1999), and they are proud parents to their son, Pratish.
Kerul Patel’s journey is a powerful example of self-belief and courage. His success in karate while managing CML shows fellow patients that nothing is impossible – even in tough times, great things can be achieved. With his strength and advocacy, Kerul continues to inspire and uplift the CML community at Friends of Max.
His advice to CML patients:
“Comply with your doctors because taking medication is essential for survival”.
“What you do in your lifetime is what truly matters. Happiness is a state of mind—find it within your life”.
“And remember, ‘A day without laughter is a day wasted,’ as Charlie Chaplin said. As you go through your career and life, ask yourself, ‘How do I want to be remembered? Am I making a difference in someone’s life?”