From selling fruits to pioneering cancer care: Dr Deshmane’s journey

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Deshmane triumphed over numerous obstacles, ranging from financial struggles to academic difficulties, to emerge as a leading surgical oncologist. She launched her medical journey supported by her mother’s sacrifices and her sister’s motivation. Notably, she broke barriers as her institution’s first female MS in General Surgery graduate. Her unwavering dedication to breast cancer research and better treatment access culminated in being awarded the esteemed Padma Shri.