Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre on Wednesday revealed that she had been diagnosed with “high-grade” cancer and was currently undergoing treatment in a New York hospital.
Releasing a statement on twitter, 43-year-old actress said, “Sometimes when you least expect it, life throws you a curveball. I have recently been diagnosed with high-grade cancer that has metastasized, which we frankly did not see coming. A niggling pain led to some tests, which led to this unexpected diagnosis. My family and close friends have rallied around me, providing the best support system that anyone can ask for. I am very blessed and thankful for each of them.”
Known for her memorable roles in films like Diljale, Bhai, Sarfarosh, Zakhm, Duplicate, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, the actress said, “There is no better way to tackle this than to take swift and immediate action.
And so, as advised by my doctors, I am currently undergoing a course of treatment in New York. We remain optimistic and I am determined to fight every step of the way”
“What has helped has been the immense outpouring of love and support I’ve received over the past few days, for which I am very grateful. I’m taking this battle head-on, knowing I have the strength of my family and friends behind me,” she added.
Sonali’s tweet sent shock waves through Bollywood. Prominent personalities reached out to the ailing actress through tweets of support in her hour of crisis.
Describing Sonali as a “true fighter”, film maker Karan Johar tweeted: “Godspeed, love and strength to a true fighter and a solid soul!!!IJIJIJIJIJIJ”
“Dear @iamsonalibendre you are wonderful human being, I am sure you will fight all the odds and overcome this situation. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Praying for strength for u @GOlDIEBEHl and ur family,” filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar tweeted.
Actor Riteish Deshmukh tweeted: “Deeply saddened & shaken by this news. Praying for your speedy recovery & good health @iamsonalibendre . IJIJIJIJ @GOlDIEBEHl sending all the positivity & best wishes”.
“This too shall pass … you are an incredible woman with immense strength … we send you all our love…. things are only going to get better . @iamsonalibendre,” Neha Dhupia tweeted.
Her “Hum Saath Saath Hain” co-actor Neelam Soni tweeted: “You are the strongest girl I know. My superwoman.”
“Keep fighting Sonali, don’t let that piece of shit win,” actor Arjun Kapoor tweeted.
“Dearest dearest one, remember you always with a girl wit so much strength n will power!!!! loads of prayers fr you!!! Get well real soon !!!! Big big hug,” actress Divya Dutt tweeted.
“Wishes and strength and love with you Sonali,” costume stylist Manish Malhotra said.
“Dear Sonali, sending you lots of positivity and prayers for this fight of yours. I Salute your spirit and pray that all goes well.. good willing all will be okay,” Aftab Shivdasani tweeted.
“You are one of the strongest women I know! I admire &respect how u always stood ur ground in the face of adversity…and won! A WonderWoman who does it all-actor, author, mom, wife! An inspiration 2 so many! Cancer will surely lose this fight! Our love & Prayers are with u always!,” actor Vivev Oberoi tweeted.
