Warning: This article contains discussion of cancer diagnosis which some readers may find distressing.
A TikTok executive has taken to social media to raise awareness after being diagnosed with stage four cancer, despite leading a fit and healthy lifestyle.
Govind Sandhu, who serves as the Head of Global Music Partnerships at TikTok, shared his health ordeal and his shock diagnosis the day after he finished running a half marathon.
In a heartfelt video posted on his Instagram on June 12, the 38-year-old revealed that he had been given a preliminary diagnosis of “stage four Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in your lymphatic system, which is a crucial part of the body’s immune defense against germs. In this disease, white blood cells known as lymphocytes multiply uncontrollably and can form tumors throughout the body.”
Reflecting on his health, Govind disclosed that he had been feeling unwell for about six weeks. His concern grew the day after completing the Sydney Half Marathon, when he noticed his knee was swollen.
Initially assuming the swelling and injury resulted from a fall while running on trails in Hobart, his condition worsened with severe body aches and sweats, symptoms typical of the flu or Covid, leading to a rapid decline in his health.
“Over a four-week period, I just deteriorated,” Govind explained, prompting him to seek urgent medical attention. After several doctor visits, along with numerous blood tests, scans, and biopsies, doctors were able to form “a pretty comprehensive overview of where things were at.”
He also shared that complications arose when abnormalities were found near his pancreas and on his heart. Fortunately, his heart is “okay,” but the area above the pancreas “will need to get zapped.”
“If it’s cancer, the chemo I will start soon will be aggressive. And so it should get that,” he added.
Govind is currently being started on steroids and antibiotics and expressed his gratitude towards the hospital staff taking care of him.
“It’s safe to say I’m about to embark on the biggest challenge of my life yet. I’m going to do my best to keep everyone updated with my progress – the highs, the lows,” he said, reflecting on the unexpected nature of his diagnosis.
“Of course, I can’t believe it, but at the same time, so many things are out of one’s control. I’ve had my time to process the ‘Why me?’ All the things I do that would make me think that I would be in a category not susceptible to this, but it doesn’t discriminate. So go get your check ups, go get your blood work done. If you’re feeling sick don’t just try and fight it off. But we’re going to get through this,” he continued.
In his caption, he explained that sharing his story serves as his own healing process and outlet, while also hoping to “put good vibrations & useful info into the world through the many highs & lows which there will be many.”
“Long road ahead, but this won’t be the end of my story, it can’t be! I’m 38 years old, lived the most blessed life to date & have so much more to live for. Reality is, I have a chance to fight this f**%%*, so I’ll take the W there. Life is beautiful, I am lucky & grateful for what I have. The mission continues,” Govind concluded.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.