Sonali Bendre recently recalled her cancer journey, breaking the news to her then 13-year-old son, Ranveer.
Sonali Bendre has been open about her cancer journey since her shocking diagnosis in 2018. She was in the 4th stage of metastatic cancer and given only a 30% chance of survival. Despite the odds, she fought with incredible determination and strength, overcoming the disease like a true warrior. Today, Sonali is cancer-free and continues to inspire countless people facing similar battles. However, her cancer battle has been nothing short of challenging, and breaking the news to her son was one of the hardest things she had to do.
Recently, in a candid interview with ETimes, Sonali recalled her disbelief when her cancer diagnosis came through. Despite leading a disciplined and healthy lifestyle, she found herself confronting the reality of metastatic cancer. The actress shared how her husband, Goldie Behl and son, Ranveer, stood like a rock throughout the treatment.
“As for my support group, I couldn't have asked for a better one. Goldie, my son Ranveer, and the entire family were my rock. They were there for me every step of the way, offering love, encouragement, and unwavering support. My sister Rupa, in particular, was a huge source of strength… my friends and extended family made sure I was never alone.”
Further in the interview, Sonali shared how she broke the news of her diagnosis to her son, who was only 13 years old at the time. Considering the risks of him learning about it from social media or some other source, she decided to be honest with him. Sonali shared:
“Ranveer was on a school trip in Switzerland when I received my diagnosis and had to leave for New York. Instead of sending him home with excuses, Goldie and I decided it was best to tell him the full truth. He was 13 at the time, and we've always believed in being honest with him. I wanted to make sure he heard it directly from us, not from someone else or from school, because news travels quickly, especially when you're in the public eye.”
Sonali described the emotional conversation with her as heartbreaking yet necessary. She recalled being deeply moved by Ranveer’s maturity and his unexpected strength in the battle. In her words:
“Explaining my diagnosis to him was one of the hardest conversations I've ever had. I wanted to be truthful, but also to reassure him that everything would be okay. I explained it in a way he could understand and made sure to be there for him, answering any questions he had. I was surprised by how maturely he took the news. In many ways, he became my source of strength and positivity throughout this journey. His support was something I truly didn't expect, but it helped carry me through.”
Today, Sonali Bendre is cancer-free and advocates for positivity and hope in everything she does. After recovering from cancer in 2021, Sonali returned to the screen, starring alongside Jaideep Ahlawat in the Zee5 drama series, The Broken News. She also runs an online book club, Sonali’s Book Club, which has also played a significant role in her healing journey.
What is your view on Sonai Bendre’s take on parenting after being diagnosed with cancer?
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