Noida: The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) has honored senior journalist and terminal lung cancer patient Ravi Prakash with this year’s Patient Advocate Educational Award. Prakash will receive the award during the World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC), set to take place on September 7 in San Diego, California.
IASLC, a globally renowned organization dedicated to lung cancer research and patient advocacy, annually recognizes five individuals from around the world who have significantly contributed to patient advocacy. This year, Ravi Prakash is the sole recipient from India.
Diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in January 2021, Prakash’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His cancer was detected at a very advanced stage, and since then, he has undergone 68 sessions of chemotherapy. Despite his own battle, Prakash has tirelessly advocated for cancer patients, raising awareness about their struggles and the high costs of treatment.
Prakash serves as the director of Lung Connect India, a non-profit organization working for the welfare of lung cancer patients. He has spoken at numerous platforms, including the SAARC Federation of Oncologists’ conference in Kathmandu last year, where he highlighted the challenges faced by cancer patients.
Reflecting on his journey, Prakash said, “Life was going smoothly until one day, cancer silently crept into my life. By the time it was detected, it was already in its final stage. My breath could now be measured in hours, months, or years—there was no certainty. But I chose to understand cancer, to comprehend the struggles of patients, and to raise my voice for them.”
Through social media and various forums, Prakash has been a vocal advocate for affordable cancer treatment and patient rights. His efforts have not only brought attention to the issues faced by cancer patients but have also inspired many to join the cause.
The IASLC Patient Advocate Educational Award is a testament to Prakash’s relentless dedication and his significant impact on the global lung cancer community. As he prepares to receive this prestigious award in San Diego, his story stands as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of advocacy in the fight against cancer.
