Stage IV Ovarian Cancer: Manisha's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Manisha Koirala was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer in 2012 after persistent sickness and abdominal bloating. The cancer had spread beyond the ovaries. After a second opinion confirmed the diagnosis, Manisha traveled from Nepal to New York for treatment. One doctor had advised chemotherapy first, but her Memorial Sloan Kettering surgeon recommended operating before chemotherapy. Manisha underwent an 11-hour optimal debulking operation. The surgical team removed all visible tumors, including deposits described as being as small as a grain of sand. She then received 6 cycles of paclitaxel and cisplatin during the first 4 months of 2013. She responded well, but the treatment brought substantial fear, sadness, and emotional strain. Support from her parents and clinical team helped her complete therapy. On April 30, 2013, Manisha received her final chemotherapy cycle and was declared cancer-free. More than 6 years later, she remained in remission. She returned to film acting in 2017, published a book about her experience in 2018, and used her public platform to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and support women’s rights.