From Cancer Survivor to NEET 2024 Topper: Maulik Patel's Remarkable Journey of Scoring 715 out of 720

In June 2022, Maulik Patel's life took a dramatic turn as he started experiencing troubling symptoms, including pain during urination, constipation, and fever. A subsequent sonography revealed a sizable tumor.

Maulik Patel, an 18-year-old resident of Ghatkopar, Mumbai, epitomizes resilience and determination. Coming from a modest Maharashtrian family, Maulik's journey is a powerful testament to unwavering dedication and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. His story begins in 2021, when he was excelling in his class 11 studies and preparing for NEET UG 2024 through online coaching due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing his potential, Nikhil Mehta, Mumbai Centre Head of Allen Career Institute, enrolled Maulik in the ALLEN Andheri Centre in November 2021 for focused NEET UG preparation.

Tumor Diagnosed

In June 2022, Maulik's health took a turn for the worse with troubling symptoms. A sonography revealed a sizable tumor near his urinary bladder, measuring 10 centimeters. Further diagnostic procedures, including a CT scan and biopsy, confirmed it was 'Sarcoma', an advanced-stage cancer. Maulik underwent surgery in June 2022 and subsequent chemotherapy treatments. A follow-up CT scan in October 2022 revealed residual tumor, necessitating further chemotherapy and radiation therapy consisting of 31 fractions.

By November 2023, a PET scan showed the tumor had reduced to 2 centimeters and was devoid of cancerous cells. By April 2024, all his test reports were normal, marking a significant milestone in his recovery. Maulik is currently cancer-free after 23 chemotherapy sessions and 31 radiation fractions. Despite enduring lengthy chemotherapy sessions and daily radiation therapy appointments, Maulik's determination and support from his medical team and loved ones saw him through.

Continued Studies Amidst Treatment

"After my initial surgery, I was unable to attend coaching classes due to my illness, so I continued my studies from home," Maulik recalled. The relentless nature of his treatment disrupted his studies, leading him to defer his NEET UG and class 12 board examinations in 2023. Despite occasional bouts of demotivation, Maulik's passion for education and his dream of becoming a doctor fueled his perseverance.

"I relied on recorded lectures from ALLEN after my second surgery, and when my health improved in September 2023, I diligently took all major tests at the center," Maulik explained. He later joined the crash course in March 2024. His commitment to his studies never wavered, even carrying his books to the hospital and taking tests during chemotherapy admissions. His parents were his pillars of strength throughout.

Triumph and Inspiration

Ultimately, Maulik emerged victorious, triumphing over cancer and excelling academically. Despite setbacks, he took the NEET UG 2024 examination, scoring an impressive 715 out of 720 marks, and ranked among the top performers at the Allen Career Institute. He also achieved an outstanding score of 94.67% in his class 12 Maharashtra State Board examinations. Reflecting on his journey, Maulik's experience battling cancer solidified his resolve to pursue a career as an oncologist, reaffirming his dream of making a meaningful impact in medicine.

Family's Sacrifices

Maulik's father, Rakesh Patel, revealed that they spent nearly Rs 35 lakhs in savings and sold their jewelry to fund Maulik's cancer treatment. "Apart from exhausting our savings, we also sold our jewelry battling the deadly disease," he said. Maulik's story is a beacon of hope and inspiration, underscoring the power of perseverance, resilience, and the human spirit in overcoming trauma.

Inspirational Figure

"We salute Maulik's courage. He has shown that everything is possible with courage," said Dr. Brajesh Maheshwari, Director of Allen Career Institute. "Maulik is an example for students across the country, teaching us to continuously strive for success. Congratulations to Maulik on his outstanding achievement."

Maulik Patel's journey from a cancer survivor to a NEET topper is not just a personal triumph but an inspiration for countless students, showcasing the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

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