Mindset over malady: Mahima Sharma’s practical battle with breast cancer
A gorgeous lady with a beautiful smile is the one who has triumphed over hard times. 35-year-old Mahima Sharma, the founder of a production house, is a woman of substance who lives proudly after battling cancer at a young age.
"I embraced all my problems as blessings. Mindset and determination empower the body to recover."
Mahima was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 while she was a partner at another production house. After an initial node was found, doctors in Indore told her it wasn't serious. However, during a business trip to Mumbai, a second opinion revealed the truth. "I insisted on being told the truth, as I had to ensure that my responsibilities and travel were coordinated," Mahima said.
The vision chart for recovery
Unlike most, Mahima dealt with the news practically. She immediately called her office to train a replacement and created a "vision chart." This chart quoted exactly how and when the treatment would happen, and more importantly, when she would recover. "I could see the treatment happening and I ensured that my body accepted and recovered accordingly," she explained.
While undergoing treatment, Mahima practiced yoga and refused to be carried on a stretcher to the operation theater, choosing to walk instead. "Doctors were amazed to see me walking and practicing yoga instead of crying about headaches."
Making lemonade out of lemons
Chemotherapy presented its own challenges, especially regarding food and appearance. "My mother-in-law would cook my favorite food because chemo made everything taste bad," Mahima shared. When she lost her hair, she found wigs uncomfortable and decided to pivot. "I created a new look for myself by dressing in a dhoti, top, and bangles to compliment my baldness."
Her family’s support was unwavering. Her husband shaved his head in solidarity, and her four-year-old son showed maturity beyond his years by not insisting on being carried while she was weak. Today, Mahima lives life to the fullest, viewing her health not as a burden but as a valued gift. "I value life more now," she concluded.