V Care: Making a Difference in Cancer Care
ABOUT THE NGO
V Care Foundation is a 30-year-old NGO with a profound mission: to empower cancer patients and their families. Their core purpose revolves around providing free help, hope, awareness through various outreach programs and services that enhance the quality of life for those affected by cancer. The foundation was established by Mrs. Vandana Gupta, a cancer survivor herself. Having experienced the challenges of battling cancer first-hand, she was driven to create a support system that empowers patients with information, care, financial, and emotional support. Her journey from a patient to a patient advocate has been instrumental in shaping V Care’s mission and outreach, ensuring that no individual faces the fight against cancer alone. The foundation strives to enhance the quality of life through extensive outreach programs and services. Their vision is one of collective strength, believing that “Together we can, and together we will conquer cancer.”
ABOUT THE PROGRAMS
V Care Foundation’s programs are designed to provide comprehensive support to cancer patients and their families. Recognizing the complexities of the cancer journey, they offer a range of services beyond medical treatment. This includes financial assistance to ease economic burdens, nutritional support for patient well-being, and accommodation aid for those traveling for treatment. The foundation also engages in paediatric cancer support, covering treatment aid and hygiene management. Emotional and psychological needs are addressed through counselling, ensuring a safe space for patients and families.
Beyond direct patient care, V Care facilitates transportation, distributes essential supplies, and actively raises awareness through virtual and on-ground initiatives. Their commitment extends to palliative care, ensuring dignity and comfort for patients. Through events and the Ummeed Cancer Helpdesk, a toll-free helpline, V Care fosters a supportive community and ensures help is always accessible.
THE NGO VISIT
Our team, comprising Mr. Tushar Hemrajani and Ms. Niharika Singh, had the privilege of visiting V Care and meeting with its CEO, Mrs. Jyoti Patil Shah, along with Ms. Ankita Ambolkar. The visit began at their office, where our discussions provided valuable insights into V Care’s extensive operations across multiple states in India and even Kathmandu, Nepal.
We then proceeded to the Tata Memorial Hospital (TMC) in Mumbai—a globally recognized institution for cancer care, research, and education. At TMC, we witnessed V Care’s dedication first-hand, reaffirming their commitment to supporting patients in a demanding medical environment.
A key aspect of their presence is the dedicated support desk in the Homi Bhabha Building, positioned alongside the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA). Staffed from Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM, this desk serves as a critical resource, guiding patients and families through hospital procedures, treatment options, and emotional challenges. The direct, personal interaction significantly eases the journey for those facing complex medical situations.
One of the most heart-warming aspects of our visit was the paediatric ward, where V Care has established a Toy Room. Thoughtfully designed with indoor games, toys, and books, this space provides young patients with a much-needed escape from the hospital environment. The rotation of toys ensures that every child gets an opportunity to enjoy them, fostering joy and engagement.
V Care’s dedicated team of volunteers and staff plays a vital role in ensuring seamless operations. Around ten volunteers contribute their time weekly, assisting in outpatient departments (OPD) and other areas as needed. Additionally, two full-time staff members provide structured support on select days, ensuring continuous assistance for patients and families.
Beyond the hospital walls, V Care extends its impact through strategic initiatives. Their toll-free Ummeed Cancer Helpdesk provides essential information on government schemes, hospitals, NGOs, financial aid trusts, and budget accommodations for patients and caregivers. Additionally, recognizing the housing challenges faced by outstation patients, V Care collaborates with affordable housing agencies to arrange accommodations for families unable to secure a hospital bed. This ensures treatment continues without additional logistical stress by providing patient transfer vehicles, which help transport patients from their accommodation to the hospital, reducing the burden of travel during treatment. V Care also offers practical solutions to enhance patients’ comfort and dignity. They provide specially designed sling pouches to carry colostomy bags, enabling patients to move freely and live with confidence.
In Mumbai, V Care has built strong partnerships with multiple leading hospitals, including Tata Memorial Hospital, Jaslok Hospital, Lilavati Hospital, Nanavati Hospital, and Breach Candy Hospital. We also learned about their expanding footprint at Tata Memorial’s Kharghar branch, where they have been allocated space to conduct recreational activities—further enhancing their holistic approach to patient support. A larger space allows for expanded support, V Care conducts interactive sessions featuring cancer survivors who share their journeys, inspiring patients with stories of resilience and hope. These sessions provide emotional strength, guidance, and a sense of community, ensuring that no patient feels alone in their fight against cancer.
CONCLUSION
Interacting with the V Care team at their office in Parel and visiting their centre at Tata Memorial Hospital was an enlightening experience. It is evident that the organization plays a pivotal role in supporting cancer patients and their families. The combination of practical assistance, emotional support, and recreational activities creates a well-structured support system that addresses the diverse needs of those affected by cancer.
The dedication of the staff and volunteers, combined with strong partnerships and impactful programs, makes V Care Foundation a truly transformative organization. Their unwavering commitment to their mission is clearly reflected in their efforts to ease the burden of cancer care for patients and their loved ones.
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