Komal Hingane

The golden necklace worn by Komal Hingane is a traditional Indian mangalsutra (blessed chain), which was carefully knotted around her neck by her husband on their wedding day four years ago. But only six months after that happy occasion, Komal was diagnosed with a rare and frightening bone marrow cancer, chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

After six months of unsuccessful treatment with other medications, her family doctor referred her to a specialist that knew about a breakthrough cancer medication developed by Novartis Oncology to treat CML.

Komal says that within one month of beginning treatment with the Novartis treatment, she began to feel better. "I was stronger, had more energy, slept better and had a better appetite," she recalls. Today, Komal says, she has the energy and enthusiasm to visit her neighbors, look after a child when needed, and take care of her grandparents. She has learned basic computer skills and completed her studies to become a beautician.