Saurabh Shankar

Nidhin Valsan, a police officer from Kerala, has shared his extraordinary journey in a new memoir, Cancerman to Ironman, which chronicles his battle with stage-4 cancer and his inspiring achievement of completing the Ironman triathlon, one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges.

Devastating Diagnosis
In late 2020, just as Valsan was preparing for a new posting in Goa, he was struck by an agonizing pain that led to a series of medical appointments and tests. After months of uncertainty, he was finally diagnosed with stage-4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a diagnosis that shattered his world. But instead of surrendering to despair, Valsan began an incredible fight for survival and renewal.

Road to Recovery
In his candid and heartfelt memoir, Valsan recounts the pain of the diagnosis, the brutal rounds of chemotherapy, and the long road to recovery. Yet what stands out most is his audacious decision during his rehabilitation phase to challenge himself in a way few would dare: he set a goal to compete in the Ironman triathlon. A year after his diagnosis, against all odds, he took part in the race in Goa, completing it and proving to himself and the world that strength lies not only in the body but in the mind and spirit as well.

Personal Memoir
Cancerman to Ironman is not just a story of physical triumph; it is a deep, personal reflection on the mental and emotional battles that come with facing life-threatening illness. The memoir gives readers an intimate look at Valsan’s struggles and the powerful support system that helped him through his darkest moments.

Praise from Notable Figures
The book has already garnered acclaim from several notable figures, including Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, who calls it “an inspiring read” that empowers others to overcome their own obstacles. The Hindu also describes the memoir as “inspiring,” while former cricketer Yuvraj Singh wrote the foreword, adding another layer of emotional resonance to this powerful story.

A Testament to Human Resilience
At its core, Valsan’s memoir is a testament to human resilience. It’s a reminder that even in the most challenging of circumstances, we all have the ability to rise above adversity. Cancerman to Ironman inspires anyone facing difficulties, proving that with perseverance, hope, and the right mindset, there is always the possibility of overcoming life’s hardest challenges.

About Nidhin Valsan
Nidhin Valsan is a police officer from Kerala whose battle with stage-4 cancer and subsequent triumph in completing the Ironman triathlon has inspired people across the world. His memoir, Cancerman to Ironman, not only highlights his athletic achievement but also delves into the personal journey of strength and determination that led him there.