By Ekta Purohit / New Delhi : HL November 13, 2026
Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi has shared previously undisclosed details of her battle with cancer in her recently released memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love. In a deeply personal account, she describes how two serious health scares within a span of two years brought uncertainty and emotional distress to her life, even as she continued to shoulder major political responsibilities.
The revelations offer a glimpse into a difficult chapter of her personal life that remained largely away from public attention. According to her account in the memoir, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and underwent surgery in Milan, Italy. A year later, doctors detected another growth in her pancreas during a routine follow-up examination, leading to a second major operation in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis in 2010: Sonia Gandhi Recalls Fear and Uncertainty
Sonia Gandhi writes that before 2010, her health concerns were largely limited to occasional asthma attacks, allergies and recurring stomach problems. She also reflects on how increasing political responsibilities and stress coincided with worsening digestive issues.
In 2010, doctors at Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital advised her to undergo an operation following suspicion of breast cancer. Although she had confidence in the medical team, the seriousness of the situation left her deeply concerned about the possible outcome.
She recalls that doctors had advised her and her children that there was little time to delay treatment. The possibility of a serious diagnosis made the period particularly difficult for her family.
Why Did Sonia Gandhi Choose Italy for Cancer Surgery?
Despite having confidence in Indian medical professionals, Sonia Gandhi decided to undergo the operation at the European Institute of Oncology near Milan, Italy.
One of the major reasons behind this decision was her desire to protect her personal privacy. She was concerned that undergoing treatment in India would attract intense media attention and turn her medical condition into a major public discussion.
The operation was performed under the guidance of renowned Italian oncologist Dr Umberto Veronesi. According to her account, surgeons removed two tumours, including one that was considered non-suspicious but was removed as a precaution. Intra-operative radiation was also administered to reduce the need for a prolonged course of conventional radiotherapy.
The surgery was successful, and she was informed that no residual tumour remained. She was also fortunate to avoid chemotherapy.
Second Health Scare in 2011: Growth Detected in the Pancreas
The medical challenges did not end with her recovery from breast cancer surgery.
During routine follow-up examinations in 2011, doctors discovered another growth in Sonia Gandhi’s pancreas. The finding came as a major shock to her and her family, who initially feared that the earlier cancer might have returned or spread.
Following consultations with medical specialists, doctors recommended immediate surgery. The possibility of a serious pancreatic condition created further anxiety, as the actual nature and extent of the growth could only be established after the operation.
Sonia Gandhi subsequently travelled to Rotterdam in the Netherlands, where she underwent surgery at Erasmus University Medical Centre.
The operation was performed by pancreatic surgeon Dr Casper van Eijck. Following the procedure, doctors informed her that the growth had been detected at an early, precancerous stage.
She remained in the hospital for approximately four weeks, with her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spending much of the time by her side.
The memoir describes the relief that followed the successful operation and the difficult recovery period.
Family Support During the Medical Crisis
Sonia Gandhi also recalls the emotional support she received from her children, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, during the treatment.
The health scares were particularly difficult for the family because both operations involved uncertainty about the possible severity of the disease.
Her account highlights the role of family support during serious illness and the emotional challenges faced by patients while undergoing major medical procedures.
‘Belonging: A Journey of Love’ Brings Personal Health Struggles Into Public View
Sonia Gandhi’s memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love, published by HarperCollins India, explores several personal and political experiences spanning decades.
Alongside her reflections on family, marriage, political responsibilities and significant events in India’s history, the book reveals the medical challenges she faced during the second term of the UPA government.
Her account provides a rare personal perspective on the uncertainty surrounding serious illnesses, the importance of timely medical intervention and the support of family members during difficult times.
The revelations have brought renewed attention to the personal experiences of a political leader whose medical condition had largely remained outside the public domain.
