The marathon, which began at Elcot IT Park and concluded at the hospital, in the presence of Ms. C. Kamini Gurushankar, Secretary and Trustee, S.R. Trust, Dr. B. Kannan, Medical Administrator, and Dr. Kasi Viswanathan, Senior Consultant & Head, Department of Pediatric Hematology -oncology of Meenakshi Mission Hospital. Also present were paediatric oncologists: Dr. Annapoorani, Dr. Anitha, and Dr. Venkateswaran.
The event had young cancer survivors showcasing their talents through vibrant dance performances and a fancy dress competition. Older survivors shared their inspiring stories, offering encouragement to younger patients. The highlight of the event was an emotional skit by hospital staff, delivering the powerful message that “Childhood cancer is highly curable”, emphasising hope and the importance of timely treatment.
In her keynote speech, Ms. Kamini Gurushankar said, “Each child who completes the journey of cancer treatment is nothing short of a hero. Today’s ‘Victory Run’ is not just about crossing a finish line—it is about honouring courage, celebrating medical progress, and spreading hope. Childhood cancers, though accounting for only about 4% of all cancers in India, bring an enormous emotional impact to families. The good news is that with modern advances, most of these cancers are now highly curable, and survival rates continue to rise. At MMHRC, we achieve an 80% success rate.”
In his address, Dr. Kasi Viswanathan, Senior Consultant & Head, Department of Pediatric Hematology-oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, said, “Our hospital has firmly established itself as a leader in pediatric cancer care in South Tamil Nadu. Since 2010, it has treated over 2,500 children with cancers and blood disorders; managed nearly 1,000 cases of blood cancers (leukaemia and lymphoma); treated around 700 solid tumors (including neuroblastoma, brain tumors, kidney tumors, and sarcoma); and performed about 400 bone marrow transplants for life-threatening blood disorders and cancers. Our comprehensive approach to cancer care and transplants ensures that children across Southern Tamil Nadu, particularly in Madurai, can access advanced, life-saving therapies without the need to travel far from home.”
MMHRC is at the forefront of pediatric oncology, specialising in treating cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, brain tumors, and solid tumors in children. Utilising state-of-the-art medical technology, advanced treatment protocols, and compassionate care, the hospital’s dedicated pediatric oncology team not only focuses on treatment but also strives to enhance the quality of life for its young patients.