Sept 03:Shyamal Kumar Sarkar, 65, a former Bengal and East Zone basketball player, drew on the fighting spirit and discipline that had defined his years on the court as he underwent gruelling treatment for Stage IV pancreatic cancer beginning in December 2025.
He also had diabetes, hypertension, a thyroid disorder and abnormal cholesterol levels.
The disease had already spread to Sarkar’s liver, omentum, peritoneum and colon. He was prescribed FOLFIRINOX, an intensive chemotherapy regimen that can be difficult to tolerate. The treatment caused severe diarrhoea, vomiting and weakness, while malignant ascites required drainage twice. After his ninth cycle, worsening side effects led to hospitalisation.
“There was a time when I was bedridden, bloated and struggling to breathe. I felt it was all over,” Sarkar said. “But I remembered my playing days and decided I would not give up.”
Dr Sayoni Bhanja, Consultant, Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, said, “FOLFIRINOX can be difficult to tolerate in advanced pancreatic cancer. His physical strength, discipline and mental resilience helped considerably, while careful adherence to the prescribed diet and limited exercise regimen supported his recovery.”
The latest PET-CT scan of the former basketball forward shows that his disease has gone into remission. His ascites has resolved, abdominal fullness has reduced, and he will continue maintenance therapy with oral medicines. He can perform daily activities, take walks and even climb four floors at home.
Dr Rupali Basu, Regional Business Head – East & Andhra Pradesh, HCG Cancer Hospitals, said, “Mr Sarkar’s journey shows how resilience and discipline can help a patient endure an exceptionally difficult phase of treatment and move forward with renewed hope.”
Dr Indranil Khan, Clinical Oncologist and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Services and Sports and Consumer Affairs, Government of West Bengal, said, “Sport teaches discipline, teamwork and the courage to keep going when the contest is hardest. In cancer care, resilience must work alongside appropriate treatment and sustained support. Cancer is not a death sentence. Mr Sarkar’s return to an active life is a testimony to the same.”