Mumbai: Ketto.org, India’s crowdfunding platform, is supporting a fundraiser launched by Rashmi Pandey to help fund her husband Prakash’s treatment for a rare and aggressive form of cancer. The family is seeking to raise ₹3 crore towards the cost of a targeted treatment, along with the medical evaluation, prescription and import processes required to make the treatment available in India.

Prakash, who is in his 30s, was diagnosed in late 2025 with periampullary adenocarcinoma, a rare form of cancer that develops in the region where the bile duct, pancreatic duct and duodenum meet. By the time of his diagnosis, the cancer had already spread to his liver.

A passionate trekker with a disciplined lifestyle, Prakash has spent years exploring some of India’s most remote regions, connecting with local communities and sharing their stories through his social media platforms. He has also mentored colleagues, supporting their professional and personal growth.

According to his family, Prakash had rarely fallen ill and remained physically active before his diagnosis. Over the past year, however, he has undergone two lines of chemotherapy as well as advanced radiation-based treatment. Despite these interventions, the cancer has continued to progress, with a high tumour burden now affecting his liver.

Adding to the complexity of his case, Prakash’s tumour carries a specific KRAS mutation, which can limit available treatment options. According to his family, his oncology team at Tata Memorial Centre has identified a newly available targeted therapy as a potential treatment option based on his individual clinical and molecular profile.

The development of targeted therapies for KRAS mutations has opened up new possibilities for some patients whose cancers carry these mutations. However, accessing such treatment can involve significant costs, particularly when the medicine, medical evaluation and import processes need to be arranged for treatment in India.

With Prakash’s condition continuing to progress, his family is now racing against time to access the treatment recommended by his medical team.

“Prakash has spent his life climbing towards difficult peaks. Today, I am asking for help so that he gets the chance to keep climbing,” said Rashmi Pandey, Prakash’s wife.

Varun Sheth, Co-Founder and CEO, Ketto, said, “Prakash’s case highlights the challenges families can face when a rare cancer leaves them with limited treatment options and an urgent need to access specialised care. Through the fundraiser, we hope to help bring his story to a wider audience and give people an opportunity to support the family during this difficult time.”

The fundraiser seeks support from individuals and communities to help the family meet the cost of Prakash’s treatment. Contributions of any amount, as well as sharing the fundraiser with others, can help the family move closer to accessing the treatment recommended by his medical team.

To support Prakash’s treatment, visit: Ketto fundraiser for Prakash