A Five-Year Milestone Marked on the Pitch
For Anuj Madhok, stepping onto the pitch for The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation Cricket event is more than just a return to a beloved childhood sport; it’s a celebration of life. As he marks his five-year cancer-free milestone, Anuj is channelling his gratitude for the care he received at The Princess Margaret into every run scored and every dollar raised.
Anuj’s connection to cancer began in India, where he stood by his mother’s side through her journey with breast cancer. Years later, after moving to Canada, he faced his own diagnosis: vocal cord cancer. The news was a shock, but it quickly forged a powerful mindset. For Anuj, “Resilience is key.”
This determination defined his path forward. During his nearly 8 weeks of radiation, he declined a procedure that would have eased the pain of eating and drinking, choosing instead to stay grounded in his goal. Throughout this time, he found a pillar of strength in his care team at The Princess Margaret.
“The team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre was incredibly supportive throughout my treatments,” he said.
For Anuj, The Princess Margaret represents a place that gives “people control of their lives.” Now, having reached a milestone he credits entirely to his care team, he was looking for a way to give back.
He found the perfect opportunity in our Cricket event. “Cricket is worshipped in India,” he explains, reflecting on the nostalgia of the sport he grew up with. Participating allows him to combine his cultural passion with a profound sense of purpose, transforming a personal victory into a collective effort. “I am only seeing this milestone thanks to the care team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre,” he said.
“This Cricket event helps give cancer patients a better chance at life — a life in your control, a life that allows you to tell this illness that the dance of life is yours and yours alone."
Anuj’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of the funds we raise. It’s a story of resilience, hope, and “counting every day as a blessing.” By raising his bat, Anuj is not just playing a game; he’s helping to ensure more patients get to celebrate their own milestones.