On May 8, 2025, a quiet but groundbreaking moment unfolded at the DAE-Civil Hospital Cancer Wing in Shillong. In a first-of-its-kind move for the state, the State Cancer Society of Meghalaya, in partnership with Ojaska Labs LLP and with support from SMRATA Trust, launched a VR-Assisted Guided Imagery Therapy & Research Study aimed at transforming the experience of cancer care.
Designed to ease treatment-related distress, this Virtual Reality (VR) therapy immerses patients in calming, guided imagery sessions that help reduce common symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, and anxiety during chemo-radiation. What makes this initiative especially meaningful is its inclusive design—available in English, Khasi, and Hindi, the therapy ensures linguistic and emotional accessibility for patients from diverse backgrounds.
The launch was marked not only by technological innovation but also by deep compassion. Patients received locally crafted apple weave shawls—organic and comforting tokens of solidarity that reinforced the human touch behind the digital interface.