Yuvraj Singh, who is undergoing treatment for cancer in US, can take an inspiration or two from Dave Callaghan. The former South Africa all-rounder is one of those cricketers who made a comeback to international cricket after conquering the illness. In an interview to Times Of India, the 47-year old cricketer says Yuvraj Singh should treat cancer like just another important match.
“It is a massive shock to anybody when you are diagnosed with cancer, but as a celebrity and a top sportsmen at the prime of your career, you ask yourself "why me" because you don't believe this type of illness can happen to you. Once reality sets in and he has come to terms with the illness. Yuvraj will be able to draw from the experiences he has been faced with, on a cricket field. In his career, I am sure he has had plenty of disappointments, but his positive approach will stand him in good stead,” says the fighter.
When Mohammad Kaif heard the news about Yuvraj's illness, he could not believe it and immediately texted him wishing speedy recovery. According to Yuvi’s former teammate, Yuvi is a strong character and never gives up in crisis. "When I first heard the news, it was a tumour on his lung and I wasn't worried at all. But this news broke my heart and I tried to convince myself that the story was wrong. But I heard that the diagnosis was made early and he has been getting the best treatment and there was not danger to his life. Yuvi is a real match-winner and I'm sure he will defeat cancer this time and will start playing for the country soon." Said Kaif, who is in Chennai to play Duleep Trophy for Central Zone.
Meanwhile, Yuvraj Singh is happy he is Boston for his cancer treatment and not in India where unwarranted and sentimental attention could have dampened his mood. Sources close to the ailing cricketer told TOI that Yuvraj keeps talking about the "matter-of-fact attitude" of both the medical staff and patients towards cancer and this has helped him to develop a positive outlook. "People come in for treatment and leave the hospital after a cup of coffee, smiling," a source close to the family told TOI. "It isn't like India where cancer is treated virtually like a death warrant."
Yuvi, who’s popular with B-Towners, has had messages and support pouring out to him from Bollywood, writes DNA. Actor Amitabh Bachchan tweeted, “Shocked to learn of Yuvraj Singh down with cancer..Yuvraj if you read this, know that we all pray for you.. All shall and will be well.” He later advised, “Yuvraj, get up in the morning and say” it out loud —Everyday in every way I am getting better and better !!” You will !!”
Actor Dia Mirza posted, “Very upset to hear about Yuvraj! Let’s pray for his recovery. I know he’s a fighter and he’ll win this match.” Actor Ameesha Patel, who was once linked with the cricketer,was shocked to learn his illness. “Praying for my friend Yuvraj. He has to get well. Everyone pls pray for him .. He must fight this awful illness.”
Battling a malignant cancer and unable to get back to the field, Yuvraj Singh’s new ad campaign on air appears an extreme case of art imitating life. What’s not known is that Yuvraj, in fact, is the inspiration and the brain behind the new series, writes The Indian Express.
It was Yuvraj Singh’s idea to recount the recent ups and downs of his life, including his sudden illness, in the latest ad campaign of financial services company Birla Sun Life Insurance. The cricketer even flew down to India three weeks ago to change the word “injury” to “health problems” and added a phrase to the original tag-line in the voice-over of the new series.
