KOZHIKODE | February 5, 2026: In a significant move to bolster oncology care in North Kerala, Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) officially launched the NAVA Cancer Institute today, Thursday, February 5th. The comprehensive cancer care center was inaugurated at a formal ceremony held at the Malabar Palace Hotel.

The event was graced by popular cine artist and cancer survivor Jewel Mary as the Chief Guest, and Ms. Jisha Sabareesh, Ward Councillor, Kozhikode Corporation, as the Guest of Honour.

“Treat it Like a Game”: Jewel Mary

Echoing the sentiments of the survivors, Chief Guest Jewel Mary urged patients and families to strip away the fear associated with the diagnosis.

"Instead of viewing cancer through the lens of fear, we should approach it like a game," the actress stated. "The goal should be to complete the race rather than focusing solely on victory or defeat. I have won my battle, and I believe that with the right emotional and social support, others can too."

Integrated Care Under One Roof

The NAVA Cancer Institute is designed to be a one-stop destination for oncology, offering services ranging from preventive screenings to palliative care. The facility integrates multiple specialties, including Medical, Surgical, and Radiation Oncology. Nuclear Medicine and Hematology (including Bone Marrow Transplantation) Oncology specialists will work alongside experts from cardiology, neurology, gynecology, and other super-specialties to provide personalized, 360-degree care.

A Legacy of Compassion

Speaking at the launch, Dr. K.G. Alexander, Chairman and Managing Director of BMH, emphasized the hospital’s mission to provide ethical treatment. "The goal of NAVA is to make advanced, world-class cancer care accessible to everyone in this region," he said.

Dr. Anant Mohan Pai, CEO of the BMH Calicut Cluster, and Dr. John Alappat, Surgical Oncologist, noted that the institute carries forward the hospital’s 40-year legacy of serving the Malabar region with dignity and medical expertise.

Voices of Victory: Survivors Share Their Journeys

The launch was made profoundly moving by the presence of several cancer survivors who shared their personal stories of resilience and recovery. Their testimonies served as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and specialized care.

Those who shared their inspiring "survivor stories" included Dr. Zoya, Ms. Jaya Noushad, Ms. Shyni Vijayan, Ms. Feba, and Mr. Vijeesh. A particularly heartening moment was the participation of young Master Muhammed Lizan, whose story touched the hearts of the audience and underscored the institute's commitment to long-term care.

Expert Panel

The gathering was also addressed by senior medical experts including Dr. Nithin Raj,  Dr. Dhanya K.S,  Dr. Shinto Francis Thekkudan, and Dr. Shelvin Kumar Vadi. The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. (Dr.) Sasindran P R , Head of Radiation Oncology.

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