Harenthri Devy Alagir Rajah: Had the privilege of contributing to an impactful project on palliative care in low-income countries
Harenthri Devy Alagir Rajah, Research Associate at
“My psycho-social oncology attachment at Adyar Cancer Institute, under the guidance of Professor Dr. Surendran Veeraih, Head of the Department of Psycho-Oncology at Adyar Cancer Institute, has been a transformative experience, deeply opening my eyes to the profound importance of palliative care in low-income countries.
Under Professor Dr. Surendran Veeraih’s leadership, along with Professor Dr. Nirmala Bhoo Pathy, and in collaboration with Dr. Gary Rodin from the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and the University of Toronto—who developed the Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (CALM) initiative—I had the privilege of contributing to this impactful project.
Through this initiative, I’ve come to understand that cancer care is not just about the treatment regimen; it encompasses holistic care that addresses the emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of end-of-life for both patients and their families. Witnessing the courage of patients and their loved ones during these final stages has been incredibly moving. It reinforces that end-of-life care is not merely a medical necessity but a compassionate and deeply human support system that honors life’s dignity, even in its most challenging moments.
The CALM intervention has highlighted the crucial need to support families in finding peace, strength, and meaning during such difficult times, allowing them to cherish their final moments together with love and understanding. This experience has left an indelible mark on me, reinforcing the belief that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to face the end of life with dignity, care, and compassion.
This project, among others at Adyar Cancer Institute, underscores the essential role of palliative care in transforming the end-of-life experience for patients and their families. ”
