A cancer survivor who battled stage IV ovarian cancer, actor Manisha Koirala recently received a heartfelt letter from the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton , where the Princess expressed her joy at learning that Koirala is cancer-free after such a serious diagnosis and has been able to continue her professional and charitable work, while inspiring many cancer patients out there. Ask Manisha about it and she says, “It does give one strength to go on. When I was in the treatment, it meant a lot when other cancer patients reached out to me and gave me hope.

I really thank (cricketer) Yuvraj Singh and (actor) Lisa Ray and a few other people who came out of cancer and spoke about it. So, now it's my time to do the same for others.” The actor who works with impact foundation of Tata hospital in Mumbai and Cancer care in Nepal, adds, “To be recognized by such an esteemed person like the Princess itself is a very motivating factor to carry on the work.

It's always great to know that somebody has appreciated one's work.” Talking about the work that is required towards cancer care in India and Nepal, Manisha says, “Cancer treatments are very expensive. So, it's important that this treatment is available for everyone and we need healthcare facilities that provide it.

We also need more awareness and talk more about healthy options in life, healthy lifestyles and the treatments. Cancer is no longer a death sentence, so a lot more right education is needed.” A post shared by O.