A survivor of stage IV ovarian cancer, actor Manisha Koirala recently received a letter from the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, where she 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.

Ask Koirala about the letter and she says, “It gives one the strength to go on. When I was undergoing treatment, it meant a lot when other cancer patients reached out and gave me hope. I really thank (cricketer) Yuvraj Singh, (actor) Lisa Ray and a few others who came out of cancer and spoke about it. Now, it’s my time to do the same.”

Middleton, who underwent preventative chemotherapy this year, is now cancer free.

The actor, who works towards cancer care in India and Nepal, adds, “To be recognized by such an esteemed person like the Princess is a motivation to carry on with my work.”

Talking about what is required for better cancer care, Koirala says, “Cancer treatments are expensive. So, it’s important to make it available for everyone. We also need more awareness about a healthy lifestyle. Cancer is no longer a death sentence, so more education is needed.”

Calling cancer her “biggest teacher”, Koirala adds, “No matter how painful, it taught me the most valuable lessons. It’s about being proactive, pro solution, living in the moment and figuring out what gives you joy.”