It was just last month that actor Sonali Bendre posted on social media about being diagnosed with a high grade cancer. Since then, she has been quite open about her journey to battle the deadly disease with several positive messages.
And Friendship Day this gone Sunday, was no different. Sonali posted a photo with interior designer Sussane Khan and Gayatri Oberoi of Swades fame, and said that she was "really happy" in that moment.
She added that people give her strange looks when she says that she is happy, but it's true. "I am now paying attention to every moment, looking for every opportunity to find joy, and #SwitchOnTheSunshine", she wrote.
Admitting that there are times when she feels low, she asserted that it does not affect how grateful she feels for having her friends and loved ones around her. "In between busy schedules, they find time to visit, call, message, FaceTime... Basically never leaving a moment for me to feel alone. Thank you for showing me what true friendship is. Happy Friendship Day," Sonali said.
What's more, Sonali can be seen happy, a radiant smile on her face while sporting a bald look with confidence.
She did post an emotional video earlier of getting her hair cut, possibly in preparation of the treatment for cancer, which causes hair loss. She had thanked people for their love, support and wishes after she announced that she had cancer, and that it made her feel like she was not alone.
In the words of my favourite author Isabel Allende, “We don't even know how strong we are until we are forced to bring that hidden strength forward. In times of tragedy, of war, of necessity, people do amazing things. The human capacity for survival and renewal is awesome.” The outpouring of love I’ve received in the last few days has been so overwhelming… and I’m especially grateful to those of you who shared stories of your experiences in dealing with cancer, whether it was your own or of loved ones. Your stories have given me an extra dosage of strength and courage, and more importantly, the knowledge that I’m not alone. Each day comes with its own challenges and victories and so for now, I’m taking this #OneDayAtATime. The only thing I’m trying to be consistent about is maintaining a positive outlook... literally #SwitchOnTheSunshine - it’s my way of dealing with this. Sharing my journey is also part of this process... I can only hope it reminds you that all is not lost and that someone, somewhere understands what you’re going through.
Posted by Sonali Bendre Behl on Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Coming from an industry where there is extreme scrutiny on women's looks, Sonali's photo keeps it real about how one's body, actor or not, deals with an illness such as cancer. And the 43-year-old adds a message of body positivity, with a touch of wit and humour as well.
"Nowadays I spend far less time in getting ready because I don't have to fuss on my hair," she said, accompanied by the hashtag "Bald is beautiful".
Read her full post here.
Also read: Actor Sonali Bendre diagnosed with cancer, says she’s taking the battle head on