[{"content":"Hello all…this is mostly a review of The Anxious Achiever by Morra Aarons-Mele, but also a little bit about what I have been up to lately. When Anxiety Looks Like Strength This book didn’t just resonate with me..it unsettled me a little. Not in a dramatic way, but in that way where you start recognising patterns in yourself that you’ve been living with for so long, you stopped questioning them.\nI’ve always lived with anxiety in a way that looks… functional. I show up, I do my work, I take responsibility, I stay ahead of things. And for the longest time, I’ve been calling that strength. It’s only in the last couple of years that I’ve started acknowledging it and trying to understand it. This book felt like fuel to that journey, making me pause again and ask: what if some of that isn’t strength? What if it’s just fear… working really efficiently?\nThe Cost of Overfunctioning There’s a part where it talks about overfunctioning and that was uncomfortable. The idea that you take on more, step in, fix things, almost act like others are an extension of you and somehow that’s what gets praised. I’ve always thought that’s what makes me dependable. But reading that it can lead to burnout, frustration and this quiet disappointment when others don’t meet expectations you never even expressed… that stayed with me. And honestly, I learnt this the hard way. Towards the end of my journey in my previous organisation…the one I just recently stepped away from, I started saying “no.” And that’s when I realised how burnt out I actually was. I hadn’t noticed it earlier, but suddenly everything felt frustrating. Everything felt heavy.\nPerforming vs Communicating Another thing that shifted for me was how the book talks about communication. I’ve always felt this pressure to show up well, speak well, not mess things up…almost like I need to perform. But the book simplifies it so much: you don’t need to perform, you just need to communicate. That felt like reassurance. I’ve been learning this the hard way through my own experiences, even during my palliative care training in Hyderabad. I didn’t realise how much energy I was spending trying to be a certain way instead of just being real.\nThe Quiet Voice of Impostor Syndrome And then, impostor syndrome. That constant feeling that maybe I don’t fully deserve to be where I am. Even during my transition from being a transplant coordinator to working in health communication, despite multiple promotions and roles, there’s always been that one voice saying, you’re doing okay, you should be proud… and another one quietly saying, maybe you don’t deserve this, anybody can do this.\nReading that even highly successful people feel this and still don’t internalise their success was both comforting and frustrating. But maybe… it’s okay that it doesn’t just go away.\nThe Five Things Towards Joy Towards the end, the author asks a question: how do you take even one small step towards feeling okay or finding joy…when everything feels overwhelming?\nAnd then it offers five suggestions. But they didn’t feel like giving advice. They felt like things I’ve been quietly avoiding.\nGetting help when you need it, instead of trying to manage everything on your own. Getting out of your own head…which sounds simple, but when your thoughts keep looping, it’s not. Reminding yourself that you’ve gotten through things before and you probably will again (even though I only remember this on my “good” days lol). Coming back to your values…what you stand for, who you want to be. And finally… finding what brings you joy.\nThat last one felt the hardest. Because I don’t think I’ve prioritised joy in a long time.\nIn my previous role, even though I felt a strong sense of purpose, I realised I wasn’t feeling joy anymore. And that’s when I started questioning things. I remember my PG professor always saying, your workplace should feel like “yipeeee” when you go to work. And somewhere along the way, that feeling faded.\nThat’s when I started asking…what brings me joy?\nFor me, learning, growing, upgrading myself… that always did. And maybe that’s why stepping away from work to pursue my MPH felt like the right choice. It wasn’t easy…but it felt honest.\nMaybe Anxiety Doesn’t Go Away\u0026hellip;And That\u0026rsquo;s OK Another thing the book made me sit with is this idea that anxiety may never completely go away. And that’s uncomfortable. Because I think I’ve spent a lot of time trying to “fix” myself, to be less anxious, more calm, more like the so-called “non-anxious” people. Especially when people casually say things like “don’t overthink” or “you’re always anxious.”\nBut the book gently shifts that perspective…it’s not about eliminating anxiety, it’s about understanding it, working with it. And that line…you don’t need to change who you are to succeed, I didn’t realise how much I needed to hear that. Because the truth is… I haven’t really changed. People know me as someone who’s quiet, sometimes socially awkward, yes…anxious. But also someone who still shows up, still does the work, still keeps going.\nAnd towards the end, it brings everything together in a simple, powerful way…you acknowledge the fear, you take care of yourself, you lean on people, you keep going. You feel everything, but you don’t let it stop you. You feel the fear and do your thing anyway.\nAnd that stayed with me.\nBecause that’s what I’ve been doing all along. Since I was in 7th grade, even before I knew what “anxiety” was. And more consciously in the last few years…learning, unlearning, trying to understand myself better. Showing up. Doing the work. Moving forward. Even when my mind is loud. Even when I doubt myself. I just never called that strength.\nThis book didn’t fix anything for me. But it reassured me. It reminded me that so many leaders have navigated this. It made me pause and notice things I’ve been avoiding…my patterns, my need for control, my tendency to overfunction, the way I hold back, the thoughts that feel true but maybe aren’t.\nAnd maybe that’s where it starts. Not with fixing everything. Not with becoming someone else. Just… understanding yourself a little more honestly.\nA little bit about where I am right now… The past few weeks have been a mix of anxiety and unexpected calm. Even before quitting my job, I was anxious about being “jobless” for a few months. But lately, I’ve been visiting the BMT unit at RGGGH and ICH…not really working, just being there, meeting my mentor, interacting with my friends there, and other psychosocial and clinical teams.\nThat space… means a lot to me. It’s the place that humbled me, broke me and also helped me grow. It’s where I reached a low point, but also where I finally sought help and started taking my mental health seriously. Looking back, that moment changed everything. It became less about me, and more about wanting to be better…for the children and patient I work with and for.\nAnd maybe that was my first real step…like the book says, seeking help.\nRecently, as I was meeting some of my old colleagues in the Unit, they noticed things…yes, the weight loss which they were concerned about haha, but also something more, in their words ‘A glow’ …A certain clarity. A glow. Maybe even hope.\nAnd I think that comes from working on myself. It’s not easy. Some days are still really hard. Just a couple of days ago, I felt like I was in a dark pit again. But I still functioned…even if it felt like functioning within dysfunction, lol. And some days… are just okay. And I think that’s okay.\nToday, I visited the new Advanced Centre of Hemato-Oncology and Transplantation at ICH. When I used to work there, it was just an idea…something I heard about and used to imagine. But seeing it now… it felt surreal.\nTo have such a facility in a government hospital…the impact it can have, the number of lives it can change despite their socio-economic status…it’s incredible.\nAnd as I walked through those corridors, even with my mind racing ahead (as it always does), I also felt something else…joy. A sense of purpose. And surprisingly, a small clarity about what I might want to focus my MPH research on (which is ironic, because that question usually gives me anxiety).\nSo yes, I spent the last month worrying about how I would survive being jobless for three months. But now… it feels different. It feels manageable. It feels okay. And maybe that’s enough for now.\nI will still have anxiety. And that’s okay.\nI’ll just have to keep working on myself, one day at a time, one step at a time, one part of me at a time.\nAnd maybe… that’s how I become a better version of myself. I hope this book with my journey being shared would help you see that you are not alone, and that it will also help you become a better version of yourself.\n","date":"2026-04-12T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/ANXIOUS ACHIEVER/WhatsApp Image 2026-04-13 at 21.37.28.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/functioning-dysfunctioning-and-finding-my-way-my-insights-from-the-book-an-anxious-achiever-by-morra-aarons-mele/","title":"Functioning, Dysfunctioning and Finding my way: My insights from the book An Anxious Achiever by Morra Aarons-Mele"},{"content":"When “Low” Finally Became “Depressed” So I’m back with a book review. Or maybe three. But honestly, this feels more like a reflection than a review.\nLet\u0026rsquo;s with I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki and its Part II by Baek Sehee. I was already feeling low when I picked it up, and my physical health wasn’t cooperating either.\nThe book itself is hard to categorise, and I think that’s why it works. It’s not a memoir in the dramatic sense. Not self-help. Not a psychology textbook. It’s basically therapy sessions, recorded conversations between Sehee and her psychiatrist. The title…Wanting to die, but still wanting to eat.** Despair \u0026amp; appetite coexisting. Hopelessness and craving sitting next to each other. That contradiction felt very human to me.**\nSehee wrote about **functioning depression, the kind where nothing externally collapses, but internally everything feels heavy. You go to work. You reply to messages. You say “I’m fine.” That part hit me hard. **I’ve spoken openly about anxiety for years, but I had never actually used the word depression. Not publicly. Not even openly in therapy. I would say I feel low. I feel empty. I feel off. But I avoided that word.\nLately, I’ve been feeling very low. And at the same time, my physical health has been acting up too. It honestly feels like my mind and body decided to team up. Through all of this, my husband has been my constant, patient and supportive.\nFor the first time, at my absolute lowest, I said it out loud: “I think I’m depressed.” I said it to my husband. And it took courage I didn’t realise I’d been withholding. When I tried explaining how I’d been feeling, he unintentionally invalidated it. Not because he doesn’t care, but because he wanted to distract me from it, lighten it, fix it. And I broke down. I sobbed in a way I hadn’t in a long time. But that was okay too. He is learning, just like I am. We’re figuring this out in real time. And in his own way, he’s been giving me what I actually need…time, rest, space, quiet support. I couldn’t be more grateful for that.\nCan an Advocate Admit She’s Not Okay? What feels strange is this… I advocate for mental health publicly. I write about emotional wellbeing. And yet I hesitated to label my own state honestly. Even when I was feeling worse, I kept pushing myself. At work, when someone asked how I was, the automatic reply came… “badiya (excellent).” Day after day. Even when I secretly wished someone would just say, “Take a break.”\nSometimes it feels like “fake it till you make it”… or maybe more honestly, “fake it till you break it.”\nSometimes I worry, what if being this raw becomes a problem for me? I work in public health. I advocate for mental health. What if people stop taking me seriously? What if they think I’m unstable?\nBut then I flip the question. If the best neurologist in the country had brain surgery, recovered and continued practicing… would we trust him less? Or would we still want him for his expertise? Just because he needed treatment for his brain doesn’t make him any less of an expert.\nSo why should I feel ashamed about navigating my mental health while working in the same field?\nManaging, Not Magically Fixing Like Sehee wrote, she has held the hands of many people already and was ready to hold many more. (Sadly, she is no more.) That line stays with me. My experience doesn’t disqualify me. It deepens me. It makes me more aware, more compassionate, more real.\nShe mentioned in her book that she **stopped chasing the idea of being “completely cured.” She consciously removed that phrase from her vocabulary. Depression, for her, isn’t a flu of the mind that simply passes. It’s closer to a chronic condition that requires management. That honesty felt grounding. Not hopeless… just realistic. **And in being that raw and real, it makes me acknowledge my mental health and to be realistic too. To work on myself. And in doing so, to show up for others with more empathy and compassion.\nAnd considering today is also Self-Injury Awareness Day, maybe this is the right moment to say what Sehee mentioned so gently… let’s talk about it without judgement. Let’s seek help. You are not alone. It is nothing to be ashamed of.\nDignity Is Relational Around the same time, I was reading Dignity in Care by Dr Harvey Max Chochinov. And that book shifted something in a very different way.\nDr Chochinov argues that dignity is not about politeness. It’s about inherent worth. And more importantly, it’s relational. People feel dignified based on how they perceive themselves being seen. His framework… the ABCDs of dignity-conserving care makes this practical: Attitude. Behaviour. Compassion. Dialogue.\nIt’s not complicated medicine. It’s human medicine. Sitting at eye level. Asking permission. Listening fully. Seeing the person, not just the diagnosis.\nAnd then he introduces something powerful: the Golden Rule (“treat others as you would want to be treated”) to what he calls the Platinum Rule, asking the patient directly how they want to be treated . That subtle shift moves care from assumption to respect. It requires clinicians to step outside their own values and ask.\nHe shares a haunting anecdote about a physician dismissing paperwork needed for an anticipated home death, telling a nurse the family could “sit tight” with the body until morning. Technically, perhaps not an emergency. But relationally? Devastating. A failure not of medicine, but of imagination.\nThere is also that sharp distinction he makes.. healthcare versus “healthcaring.” Evidence-based skill, efficiency and knowledge matter. But “compassion is what separates healthcare from healthcaring.” Healthcaring is not just what we do to patients. It is how we are with them.\nIt Wasn’t About the Fan Reading that while navigating my own physical pain made it deeply personal.\nFor the longest time, my pain was brushed aside. Random clinic visits. Temporary fixes. Until I found a doctor in Chennai who simply believed me. Didn’t minimize it. Didn’t question it. Just acknowledged it. That consistency felt safe.\nBut the last couple of months were different. The pain worsened, especially in my legs. My appetite dipped further. Walking… something I used to do 1.5 km to and from work every day became harder (forget about the 10kms early morning daily walks, trekkings and running marathons). I barely manage the return walk now, handing my bags to my husband so I can just focus on getting home. And still, I kept telling myself I should be doing more. Individuals with Fibromyalgia are told to stay active. So I pushed.\nThere was one continuous week without sleep because of pain. My husband insisted I work from home that particular day. I still went in. When someone asked how I was, I said “badiya.” Of course. Later, someone in my team switched on the fan after I had already asked them not to. And I just snapped. “Could you please switch the damn fan off? I’m sick.” And I cried.\nIt wasn’t about the fan. It was about my mind and body being at their lowest, and me still pretending I was fine. I washed my face and worked through the rest of the day.\nRest. Sleep. And Support. That’s It. But I realised I couldn’t continue like this. I couldn’t wait another month to see my Chennai doctor. I needed to get checked.\nSo I booked an appointment in Delhi. I didn’t even research the doctor properly, which is unlike me. But I went. And he was kind.\nHe didn’t deny my pain. Didn’t dismiss it. When I kept explaining how I wasn’t walking enough, almost defending myself, he simply said: rest. Sleep. That’s it. No guilt. No lecture. Just acknowledgement.\nThen I spoke about my appetite. How I still can’t eat lunch properly. How if I try to eat and it makes me not feel good while at work. That\u0026rsquo;s partly why I skip it. How I try again at home. He looked at my husband, smiled slightly and said, “Well, then we know the reason for the weight loss, don’t we?” We all smiled. And not once did he say, “You need to try harder to eat.” Not once did he lecture me. Again, he came back to the same thing… rest. Sleep. Some tests. Support.\nAnd maybe this is also why, recently, I started an Instagram page called @ayooitsfibro, partly sarcastic, partly survival. A space to acknowledge what I’m feeling in real time. To talk about chronic pain without sugarcoating it. To share research-based evidence so people living with fibromyalgia and other chronic conditions don’t feel like it’s “all in their head.” It’s my way of turning lived experience into something that might make someone else feel less alone. If you’d like, you can take a look.\nAnd here again I witnessed what Dr Chochinov was saying. Technical competence matters. Medication matters. But what preserves dignity is how you are made to feel in that room… whether you’re treated as a case or as a person.\nJust Being Seen He insists that dignity in care matters at the beginning of life, at the end of life, and everywhere in between. It’s not just doctors and nurses. It’s everyone… from clinicians to receptionists. Because the “tone or fragrance of care” shapes every encounter.\nHe ends with a mirror, reminding clinicians that their contribution goes beyond technical skill. That line felt personal.\nBecause ultimately, this book is not accusing healthcare professionals. It is inviting them. Inviting all of us.. especially those of us working in health systems, to remember that patients are people with feelings that matter.\nBetween Sehee and Chochinov, I realised something simple.\nInternally, we struggle to name our pain. Externally, we hope someone will recognise it without making us defend it.\nWe don’t just want treatment. We want acknowledgement.\nNot diagnoses. Not performance. Just being seen.\nLearning to Care by Being Cared For And maybe that’s the real thread running through all of this… whether it’s mental health, chronic pain, or healthcare systems.\nWe’re all just trying to be honest about what hurts… and hoping someone meets us there with a little less judgement and a little more compassion.\nAs I continue to pursue my MPH this July, I’m excited to grow into a stronger, more informed, and more humane version of myself not just academically, but as a public and mental health advocate who never forgets the person behind the pain.\n","date":"2026-02-28T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2026-03-01 at 18.53.05.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/learning-to-care-by-being-cared-for/","title":"Learning to Care by Being Cared For"},{"content":"Why Childhood Cancer Awareness? September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a field I’ve been working in for the past three years. I’ve been wanting to write for a while now, but life’s whirlwind kept me caught up. Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, another cause very close to my heart, mental health I decided what better day to finally put these thoughts into words?\nSo, without beating around the bush, why Childhood Cancer Awareness? Because childhood matters. Because cancer is curable.\nAt the core of what we advocate for is 100% access to care. Just a few days ago, I attended a virtual interview where our founder was speaking, and it reminded us of a video, a young girl voicing her frustration at navigating health schemes for her father’s treatment.\nNow imagine a parent who has just learned their child has cancer. Devastated. Lost. Not knowing where to go or what to do. That’s why we raise our voice: to make sure no child is left without access and no parent is left in despair.\nFinding My Niche in Children’s Health I’ve always known I wanted to work for children. I’ve always known the value of health. Over time, I found my niche in children’s health and that’s what drives me.\nThis month also marks nearly three years in this field and close to a year in health communication. It’s been a rollercoaster. The past few months in my career tested me in ways I can’t even explain.\nI told myself I wouldn’t write until things were finalized with a few deadlines at work, but today I just feel grateful, for myself, my team, my support system and the passion that still keeps me going. And I want to shout it out loud.\nLet me tell you about a child, Bhagyalakshi, who has Ewing’s sarcoma. Her hands had to be amputated because of cancer. Recently, during an awareness campaign where we asked children to wear our campaign T-shirts for the pan-India launch, she quietly picked out a large one and smiled. That smile, like hers and many that we see here, despite everything they lose is what fuels me. It’s what makes me keep going.\nChildhood shouldn’t be lost. Quality of life shouldn’t be compromised. And there are so many children out there like Bhagyalakshmi. That’s why I believe so deeply in this cause, because childhood is precious. And I believe in health as the foundation of everything, both public and mental health. That is why I advocate.and why I continue.\nTimely Diagnosis, Timely Treatment If there is one message I wish every parent, policymaker and healthcare provider would carry, it’s this\u0026hellip;timely diagnosis and timely treatment save lives. With cancer, every day matters. Early detection means not just survival, but better quality of life for children like Bhagyalakshi.\nThis is why awareness, advocacy and accessible healthcare systems matter so much. Because no family should lose a child to delays and no child should lose their childhood to something treatable.\nThe Team That Keeps Me Going I call myself an empath, but honestly, these past weeks I’ve lost my cool more times than I’d like to admit, lashed out, walked out. And yet, my team stood by me.\nToday, we finally settled something important and I want to give a special shoutout to the newest (and youngest) member of our team, less than a month in, but already handling big tasks with so much grace. I couldn’t be prouder, Aparna. Your mamma bear is happy, just like you all call me :)) I’m just as proud of the whole team, you kiddos keep me going. Happy to do the babysitting, haha!\nIn this process, you know, there were so many days I desperately wanted to take leave, my body and mind needed it. But with deadlines looming and the need to be with my team to coordinate, I pushed myself to stay. It was exhausting, but we made it through together. Also, with our new head these past few weeks, it was a brand-new creative experience. Good to have worked with you so far, Rumi!\nAnd now, I’m finally looking forward to that break and to concentrate on the wedding ahead soon… my wedding hehe.\nThe Tough Septembers \u0026amp; Octobers - Changing the Narrative on Suicide September through October is always tough. But looking back, I can still feel proud of the person I’ve become. The path I am on right now, may not be my forever path, but I’ve learned so much here. My people skills have grown (though my Hindi is still terrible, haha).\nThere were so many nights I wanted to reach out to close ones but instead cried myself to sleep out of sheer exhaustion. Times I sought professional help but felt the burden of its cost. It’s a cycle. And yet, even while struggling, I’ve always made space for others to feel seen. And that’s okay.\nThis year’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”\nSuicide is a major public health challenge claiming more than 720,000 lives every year (WHO). This theme calls on us to challenge, reduce stigma and foster open, compassionate conversations. It’s about shifting from silence and misunderstanding toward empathy and support. About creating environments where people feel safe to speak up and seek help, and that is what I have always tried to do with my real talks by sharing my experiences.\nLessons from Mentors and Bosses I can hardly believe I’ve grown into someone who has embraced this fields from different paths and dynamics. I’ve learned, unlearned, broken down, rebuilt and I’m still here. And for that, I’m proud.\nYou know, whenever I got worked up these past few weeks and want to argue about something I feel strongly about, my boss often says just one line: “Pick battles, not wars.” It made a lot of sense and honestly, it’s kept me going.\nBack when I had career anxiety, my mentor back in chennai always reminded me that there’s always more to do, more to focus on and to keep moving forward. These past few weeks, whenever I felt like giving up and running away, the words of my boss felt similar to those of my mentor and became a reminder of my bigger purpose, the reason I started.\nSo I always take a deep breath, have my black coffee, let go and carried on. Exhausting, yes but at least I had a backup: the boss. Thank you sirji :))\nAnd to my team, apologies if you’ve seen my worst side this past week (lol), but we also had a lot of fun along the way. Thank you all.\nThanks Aparna once again. You are little off the loop. Shivam, the next milestone’s on you, no pressure at all, haha.\nGratitude to My Partner And in all of this, I cannot forget the one constant who has held me together, my partner.\nWhile balancing the demands of his own career in US Audit, he’s been the only one who truly understands or atleast still tries to understand the nuances of my mental health. He sees my career obsession, my passion, my anxiety and the toll it sometimes takes on my health. He gets far less of the \u0026lsquo;fun me\u0026rsquo; than I wish I could give, yet he never complains.\nInstead, he stands by me, grounding me, reminding me I’m not alone in this. Without him, I couldn’t have become this great person who many people appreciate me for. So, as I finally look forward to the break I’ve been waiting for, and to our wedding I just want to say\u0026hellip; thank you. Thank you for being my strongest supporter, my safe space and for putting up with all of me. Professional and Personal Learnings This journey has shaped me in ways I never imagined.\nPersonally, I’ve learned resilience, the strength to stand even when I felt like falling apart. I’ve learned the importance of asking for help, even when it feels uncomfortable, and the power of resting before burning out (lol well I have to). Most importantly, I’ve learned that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s the bridge that connects us to others. Professionally, I’ve grown into someone who can manage people, lead with empathy, and balance compassion with responsibility. I’ve learned to communicate better, to pick my battles wisely and to celebrate small wins while working toward larger goals. And as I hope to balance my tasks, I also really want to focus on the Palliative Care Services Programme of our organization, a space where dignity, comfort and compassion stand at the very heart of care. I believe this is where advocacy meets humanity. Every child I meet, every caregiver I speak to, every teammate I work with adds a new layer of depth to who I am, both as a person and as a professional.\nI’ve learned, unlearned, broken down and rebuilt as I said. But I’m still here. Still fighting for childhoods that deserve to be lived fully. Still speaking openly about mental health in a world that often prefers silence. Still learning to care for myself while caring for others.\nThat, for me, is the true meaning of this September\u0026hellip; to fight for life, theirs, yours and mine.\n","date":"2025-09-09T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2025-09-11 at 00.08.22.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/childhood-cancer-awareness-mental-health-and-the-journey-in-between/","title":"Childhood Cancer Awareness, Mental Health and the Journey in Between"},{"content":"Every year, around this time, my anxiety tends to peak. And yet, almost instinctively, I turn to writing something hopeful on social media. So here I am, doing just that again.\nYesterday was National Doctors\u0026rsquo; Day… and apparently, also National Chartered Accountants Day. This post might wander a bit, but at its heart, it’s about four incredible individuals, three who are close, and who’ve played personal roles in my life, and one I admire from afar. All of them were in my thoughts yesterday.\nThis year’s theme for National Doctors\u0026rsquo; Day was “Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?”\u0026hellip; a reminder that doctors, with all their service and compassion, pay a personal price to care for others, right?!\nThe Mentors who healed me\u0026hellip; Let me start with two of the most impactful and beautiful people in my journey, Dr Aruna Rajendran, my primary mentor, and Dr Sasidaran, her husband and my co-mentor, both based in Chennai. They are not just respected professionals in their fields, but also two of the kindest, most compassionate doctors and human beings I’ve ever known.\nWhat makes them exceptional isn’t just their brilliance in medicine. It’s the way they extend their service and mentorship beyond the confines of their specialty, to allied health professionals like me. They invest in people. They generously share their knowledge and nurture those around them. That’s the kind of doctors they are… healers in the truest sense.\nIt’s been nine months since I left the BMT unit, yet not a single day has gone by without thinking about them..without their words echoing in my mind. That’s the kind of impact they’ve had, both personally and professionally.\nReflecting on this year’s theme, “Who Heals the Healers?”\u0026hellip; Last night I had sent a small token of love to Dr Aruna and Dr Sasidaran\u0026hellip;a tradition I do with the people I hold dear. That anxious, overwhelmed, but happy face in the picture? That is me.\nI know Dr Aruna has been working late. But I didn\u0026rsquo;t realize that long into the night. But later that night, I realized she hadn’t even reached home yet even by 11 in the night. She was still seeing patients late into the night… working, serving, healing. Then returning home to tend to her two young boys and her loving family, who would\u0026rsquo;ve gone to bed already at that hour. It hit me hard. Though I was happy doing my little “tradition,” I was also saddened by how much she juggles. I know she loves what she does, but still… Who heals the healers, right?!\nAnd Dr Sasidaran, he initially came across as the “strict professor,” someone I found intimidating. But over time, I saw the warmth behind the formality. I wish I had more time to learn from him. He is a bundle of knowledge yet so humble. Even now, whenever I visit Chennai, I still budge them both. I probably always will.\nJust a day before Doctors\u0026rsquo; Day, I joined a farewell (virtually) for one of my closest friends.. a brilliant, upcoming clinical researcher from the BMT unit. During the farewell, Dr Aruna said\u0026hellip;“It’s the allied healthcare workers who keep the unit alive, making it lively now and then.” Maybe I’m deviating, but that’s what this year’s theme\u0026hellip;Who heals the healers? is about right? Sometimes, it’s the small things… a bit of lightness, a smile, someone who helps take the edge off a heavy day. That’s what they might need sometimes\u0026hellip;for the ones who are always giving!! Last night, I did feel guilty, wondering if I disturbed her peace, especially on her special day. But by the end of it, I reminded myself\u0026hellip;I celebrated her. From miles away. And I’ll keep celebrating her. Both of them. Always.\nThey deserve that and so much more.\nThe Father of Palliative Care… my Guiding Light from afar! Next, I want to talk about someone I admire from afar… Dr M R Rajagopalan…the Father of Palliative Care in India… the very field I am now passionately pursuing. The moment you meet him, all your skepticism about healthcare begins to dissolve. That’s who he is, a living, breathing embodiment of compassion. He doesn’t just practice care; he lives it. And he shares it with the world.\nThere was a time I kept applying for roles at Pallium India, not because I was desperate for a job, but because I just wanted to be near that kind of energy. I wanted to learn from the foundation he laid and absorb the principles he has spent a lifetime advocating for. Whenever I found out he was speaking at a conference and I had the chance, I’d make it a point to attend, and also walk up and say a quick hi and click a picture with him. And when I once shared that I hoped to join Pallium India, he actually followed up personally and supported me until he could. I mean… who does that? Someone with his stature, carrying the kind of responsibility\u0026hellip; and still taking time for a job follow-up?! That’s who he is. Always giving, always kind. Every minute of every day, he continues to serve the cause of compassionate care. And that, in itself, is a lesson I’ll carry with me always.\nThank you, Sir, for continuing to inspire me. Your book “Walk with the Weary” still lives within me, and I often pass on its wisdom to others. You’ve sown the seeds of compassionate care…and they continue to bloom in countless lives.\nIf only I had crossed paths with these mentors earlier\u0026hellip;maybe, just maybe, I would\u0026rsquo;ve even considered studying medicine (despite my dislike for biology haha). I truly love what I am doing today, and a big part of that is shaped by the inspiration I find in doctors and people like them\u0026hellip; who remind me what true care and compassion look like.\nNot a CA yet - you deserve to be celebrated too! Now shifting from doctors to someone closer to home… my partner in all things, my soon-to-be life partner. He’s a Senior Audit Analyst who flew all the way to Delhi to spend time with me. While he’s not a Chartered Accountant yet, I’m celebrating him this CA Day too.\nNo, I didn’t wish him formally (\u0026lsquo;cos I didn\u0026rsquo;t know until he mentioned last night). But here’s my acknowledgment\u0026hellip;the work he does, the depth of his knowledge… it’s genuinely impressive. And to all the aspiring CAs out there who haven’t cracked the final exam yet, you deserve to be celebrated too. Your dedication is no less valuable. He specializes in US auditing but remains humble enough to help with anything from simple budgeting to complex finances. I am genuinely proud of him. I still remember a day when he helped me and my friend who visited from the BMT unit ( the upcoming clinical researcher I mentioned earlier) complete a proposal budget in no time, and with no expectations.\nThank you for being an exceptional Audit Analyst. And more importantly, thank you for being an exceptional human being.\nAnd then, there’s ME! Yes, my anxiety is peaking… just like it does every year around this time. But I’m also dreaming bigger than ever. Maybe that’s why my posts often come out raw and real, because life isn’t always a bed of roses.\nSix months into the year, and honestly? I’ve only read 2.5 books. I’ve played badminton maybe five or six times. Gone on a run or walk around 50 days.\nBut I’ve also:\nCooked consistently for the past month Managed my work and personal responsibilities Excelled at work Built deeper connections with my team Enrolled in a new course Played peacemaker in the family (which counts, right?) And when I say I’m doing well at work, I mean it, especially in terms of leadership as I\u0026rsquo;ve mentioned on my last LinkedIn post. In Delhi, I’ve had the opportunity to meet powerful leaders, especially women. But the very first woman in power who inspired me? That will always be Dr Aruna, the same mentor I’ve spoken about initially on this post. I’ve learned many subtle, powerful lessons in leadership just by observing her. By listening to her. And looking back now, maybe those lessons quietly prepared me for the leadership role I stepped into here\u0026hellip; even at a time when I didn’t feel ready. Turns out, I was more prepared than I thought… thanks to her.\nI’ve always thrived at the grassroots, a people person. But these encounters, these mentors, and these experiences have stirred something deeper. It’s made me want more.\nI still remember my first day at the BMT unit. Dr Aruna barely knew me, but as we waited at the Dean’s office, she said\u0026hellip;“You shouldn’t leave before two years, okay? At most five. But in five years, you should be in a higher administrative position at the WHO or UN, making policy-level changes. At the time, I didn’t see myself as a leader.\nEven recently, when another opportunity came up within CanKids, she told me\u0026hellip;“There’s no single path for you, Prathipa. Take every chance. Learn everything.”\nIt’s not always a bed of roses, and that’s okay. Maybe I’ll cry. Maybe I’ll feel overwhelmed. But I will rise.\nI will grow into the woman who belongs at the table, who holds space in the hierarchy, who leads with kindness, and who lives a simple life enjoying clear skies and rainy days.\nBecause I know now...I can get there.\nSo yes… six months gone. I’m anxious. I’m overwhelmed. But I’m also inspired. And I’m aiming high.\nThanks to the people I’ve mentioned above, the ones who keep me grounded, the one who I will always celebrate\u0026hellip;the ones who remind me to celebrate myself too…\nSince months might have gone, but don’t feel lost.\nBecause in the end, it’s the little things… The big-hearted people… And the purpose that keeps us going and rooted.\nOne day at a time. One year at a time.\nHere we come, next six months\u0026hellip;.with passion, love, hope and kindness :)))\n","date":"2025-07-01T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2025-07-03 at 01.48.15.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/six-months-gone-but-not-lost-just-lived/","title":"Six Months Gone… But Not Lost, Just Lived"},{"content":"Back again with a book review!\nThis is one of the books I started last year, however finished during the beginning of this year. One of the reviews I’ve been procrastinating on, but it’s time to share it now. This book was actually referred to me by my mentor long back when I was working with her. Back then, I was a bit lost, maybe unsure about things, and she probably saw the importance of this book for me. Well, it turns out, she was right…it’s important for everyone! It’s been a game-changer for me. With everything going on in my life right now…juggling work and personal life, still adjusting to a new city and place, taking on added roles and responsibilities as they come, and learning ahead, it sometimes feels like a lot. I’ve started tackling tasks with a checklist, and trust me, it works great! It made me realize how effective checklists can be in larger setups, especially as I focus on my long-term goal of palliative care.\nIn his book, The Checklist Manifesto, Dr Atul Gawande doesn’t just talk about staying organized, but it’s about making systems work better, preventing mistakes, and how even the smallest steps can have huge consequences.\nAs someone working in health communication with an eye on palliative care, this book really resonated with me.\nPersonal learning On a personal level, I’ve learned that something as simple as a checklist can bring clarity to overwhelming situations. Life can get chaotic, and having a way to focus on the essentials really helps me stay grounded. It’s not just about ticking off tasks, it’s about simplifying complexity and reducing mistakes….something I can now apply both at work and in my personal life.\nRecently, when I faced a bit of confusion regarding a career-related decision, I created a practical checklist to help break down the options. It helped me when I hit a dead end and couldn\u0026rsquo;t decide on my next step, it was as important as that. It gave me structure, clarity, and confidence in my choice. What’s even more interesting is that this concept of simplification is applicable not just in our day-to-day tasks but in solving big, complex issues that we often face in both personal and professional life, and just imagine how much of a difference it could make in a healthcare setting.\nProfessional learning From a professional view, I’ve come to see checklists as an essential tool for improving outcomes, particularly in healthcare. Dr Gawande takes us into operating rooms, airplane cockpits, etc., to show how checklists manage complexity. In one of his initial, and most effective examples, at John Hopkins hospitals, a simple five-step checklist for inserting central lines led to infection rates dropping from 11% to 0%. It\u0026rsquo;s not about fancy technology, it’s about following the steps.\nIt’s clear that the more complex a task becomes, the more necessary it is to have a system in place to track and ensure that all steps are being followed properly. Pilots use checklists before every flight. Doctors use them in surgeries. The more complex the task, the more important it is to have clarity.\nOne other most important scenario from the book is about Walmart. They used checklists to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. When the disaster struck, the company faced the monumental challenge of delivering supplies and rebuilding its operations. What stood out was how their pre-existing checklist system allowed Walmart to respond quickly and efficiently. Despite the chaos, the company was able to deploy its employees and resources in a streamlined way, using a system that made the entire recovery process much more efficient.\nAnother memorable example is of Adam, a chef. In their kitchen, Adam developed detailed checklists for every dish, checklist for the customers, ot because he lacked skill, but because he understood that consistency and excellence come from preparation and systems. Each item, from ingredients to plating was double-checked by the team. This wasn’t about micromanaging talent; it was about respecting the complexity of the craft. Just like in a kitchen, where every step, from ingredients to plating, and customer preference is double-checked, palliative care requires a checklist at every turn. Whether it’s managing pain, providing comfort, or communicating with the family, every detail must be checked to ensure no aspect of the patient\u0026rsquo;s care is overlooked, preserving dignity and quality at each stage.\nChecklists aren’t just about listing tasks…they’re about creating systems that allow for smooth execution, minimizing human error, and focusing on what truly matters. In healthcare, especially in palliative care, where there’s often a lot of emotional and physical complexity, checklists could play a crucial role in minimizing errors and improving patient care.\nHealthcare could be more\u0026hellip;human Dr Gawande, despite being a top surgeon, openly talks about mistakes. He emphasizes human fallibility and the courage it takes to admit. He mentioned that he needs a checklist! We need more professionals like him…people who challenge the status quo and encourage teamwork.\nIt made me think…this is what palliative care teams should feel like. Different professionals working together, supported by systems like checklists to ensure nothing is missed, and everyone has a role to play. It’s about creating a culture where speaking up is encouraged, and the focus is always on the patient’s well-being, not just the tasks at hand.\nReading this reminded me of a turning point in my own thinking: Walk With the Weary by Dr M R Rajagopal. That book was my first heartfelt and real glimpse into the world of palliative care. It was a learning and unlearning moment, and opened my eyes wider to the idea that I firmly believe - that healthcare is not just about treating diseases.. it’s about being present, easing pain, and preserving dignity.\nDr Gawande’s book hit that same nerve, but from a different angle. He’s showing that in healthcare\u0026hellip;and really, in any complex field, systems matter. Checklists help ensure the basics don’t get overlooked, and that leads to better outcomes for everyone involved. It’s about keeping things simple and human.\nI’m now eyeing Compassionomics: The Revolutionary Scientific Evidence That Caring Makes a Difference by Stephen Trzeciak and Anthony Mazzarelli, and Dignity in Care by Harvey Max Chochinov. (Feel free to get me either one. I won’t stop you, lol :P)\nIf you work in healthcare, policy, or communication, or if you care about improving systems, please give this book a read. It\u0026rsquo;s a great, realistic, honest, and moving book that makes a case for why checklists aren’t about limiting creativity…they’re about ensuring what matters doesn’t get lost in the chaos. In healthcare, especially in palliative care, that clarity is everything is what I believe! ","date":"2025-04-24T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2025-04-26 at 11.36.13.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/the-magic-behind-simple-checklists-personal-and-professional-take-on-the-checklist-manifesto-by-dr-atul-gawande/","title":"The magic behind simple CHECKLISTS - Personal and Professional take on the “CHECKLIST MANIFESTO” by Dr Atul Gawande"},{"content":"I’m finally back with a book review…long overdue, I know! I’ve been procrastinating on these for a while, but it’s time to dive back in, starting with the review of one of my perfect reads.\nLet me start with this…yes, I’m an introvert.\nNot too “shy and hiding-in-the-corner” kind, but the type who doesn\u0026rsquo;t speak unless there\u0026rsquo;s a real reason to. I like meaningful conversations, not just communication for the sake of it. I’ve always been the behind-the-scenes type - backstager leader!\nPeople have called me skillful or sharp… but mostly after they’ve seen the outcome of what I’ve done. Rarely at first glance. Because I’m not loud. I don’t announce. I don’t dominate meetings. I work quietly. And then I deliver.\nWhen I picked up Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, I didn’t just read it. I felt seen.\nThe author opens the book with how society shifted from valuing character to valuing personality. And wow, that explained a lot.\n“We moved from a Culture of Character to a Culture of Personality.”\nIn other words, it’s not enough anymore to be kind, honest, and capable… you’ve also got to be charming, talkative, and outgoing. I never quite fit that second mold, but this book reminded me that there’s real value in the first.\nThe myth of constant collaboration! Open offices. Group brainstorming. Constant Zoom calls. The author talks about how too much collaboration can actually kill creativity.\n“Solitude is a catalyst for innovation.\u0026quot;\nYes. A thousand times yes.\nMy best ideas don’t come in group settings. They come when I’m walking alone, scribbling in a notebook, or just letting thoughts marinate. I love working with my team, but I don’t need constant interaction to function. In fact, I thrive without it. I recall an incident from when I had just moved to Delhi for this role. During one of our program meetings, we were encouraged to share our thoughts. I didn’t speak much, and our co-founder pointed out that I needed to speak up more. We hadn’t interacted much until then.\nBut months passed, and things shifted. When I was recognized with a leadership award, she took a moment to appreciate how I communicated. Few days later, at one of the events, our chairman introduced me to the chief guest as a good writer, mental health advocate and so on. And then…unexpected but meaningful, she, the same co-founder, added without prompting that I was also a strong communicator.\nThat moment said it all.\nIntroverts are not broken, we are wired differently! There’s a chapter on temperament, how introversion is often inborn. That helped me stop trying to “fix” myself.\n“Introverts are not failed extroverts.”\nThis quote hit me hard. I’ve spent years trying to justify why I didn’t network more, speak more, insert myself into every conversation. Now I realize, I don’t need to. I just need to lead in my own way.\nPublic speaking, with a racing heart, haha! Funny thing about me, is\u0026hellip; I love talking about topics I care about… even on stage. My heart still skips a beat, but once I’m up there, I do justice.\n“Don’t think of introversion as something that needs to be cured.”\nTurns out, introverts can be amazing speakers, especially when it’s coming from a place of deep passion and preparation. Quiet leaders, loud impact! The author brings up Eleanor Roosevelt and Rosa Parks, people who changed the world, not with volume, but with conviction -\n“They showed that you can be quiet and still be a leader.”\nThat’s how I’ve led too. I don’t command a room with energy. But I guide with clarity, intention, and follow-through. I believe so. Thinking slow in a world that moves fast! This chapter compares decision-making styles.. how introverts tend to reflect more. That’s me in every meeting. I don’t react fast, but I respond well.\n“Even in haste, they deliberate.”\nAnd now that I’m a team manager\u0026hellip; that quality is what people respect the most. Calm in chaos, haha. Trying to make the best out of my introversion in leadership, owning it right?!\nThe author also explores how some cultures still value quietness. It reminded me that not every strength needs to be broadcasted. Sometimes quiet means humble, grounded, and steady …it does not mean uncertain.\n“In the West, the shy child is seen as a problem to be fixed.”\nBut that quiet child can grow into someone capable of leading without shouting.\nThe author talks about the “rubber band theory.” Basically, you can stretch outside your comfort zone, but only to a point. That’s been my journey exactly!\n“We can stretch ourselves, but only so far.”\nI’ve stretched into management. Into public speaking. Into fast-paced meetings. But I still guard my quiet time fiercely…and that’s how I recharge.\nUnderstanding both sides As a team lead now, who is also owning up to her introversion, I deal with all kinds of personalities. This chapter helped me become better at bridging the gap, making room for all the personalities of team members to shine, while giving space for introverts to process and contribute in their own rhythm. “Respect the other’s needs.”\nIt’s not rocket science, but it’s something most workplaces miss.\nQuiet kids grow up too! This one made me reflect on how many kids grow up feeling ‘not enough’ because they’re quiet. I was one of them. Now I try to make sure the quiet folks on my team feel seen, because they have a lot to say, even if they say it differently.\n“Teach them to value their inner selves.”\nBecause once they do, they grow into the kind of adults who quietly change the game.\nPutting myself in the right lighting! The author ends the book with one of my favorite lines:\n“The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting.”\nNot everyone needs the spotlight. Some of us do our best work in softer light, not center stage, but still fully present. Like I said, I have always been the backstage leader, and owned it pretty well! And honestly? That’s where I’ve found myself. Leading a team. Making a difference. Still quiet. Still me. ","date":"2025-04-15T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2025-04-16 at 19.09.30.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/leading-quietly-how-susan-cains-quiet-helped-own-my-introversion/","title":"Leading Quietly: How Susan Cain’s 'Quiet' helped own my Introversion "},{"content":"Last weekend, my little soul sister from Chennai, a colleague turned friend and family, and constant in my journey visited me in Delhi. The last time I left Chennai, it was bittersweet. I had spent most of my time between the BMT unit and her home. As I was leaving, she said, “You go, Prathipa… I’ll follow you in March.” And she kept her word.\nWe didn’t go out much or explore the city, instead, we did what we loved the most, what mattered most! We spent quality time together. We cooked, played games, watched movies, slept in, and worked together in our cozy little space, just like old times. It felt like I had never left home!\nBack then, it was the doctor’s room/the OPD, a space where we weren’t just colleagues, but collaborators, support systems, and cheerleaders for one another. That room which we were forced into, that became our comfort zone. That space held so many memories; it became our home, and we witnessed it all - long work hours: 7 am to 7 pm, patient stories, birthdays, even my farewell.\nLast week, when I got to be a small part of a new proposal while she was here, it truly felt like I’d never left.\nThere’s a special kind of joy in remaining connected to the BMT Unit, the place where my passion took root, and where I personally grew as well. So whenever any BMT Coordinator reaches out with questions, or the team sends me a video of children playing with the toys we once introduced together, it fills me with joy. It reminds me that the work we did truly made a difference and continues to do so, even now.\nShe’s two years younger than me, yet incredibly driven and passionate. Watching her grow, both personally and professionally, is something I deeply cherish. She\u0026rsquo;s someone who’s shared in my journey with zero ego and only encouragement, a rare kind of friendship built on respect, love, and growth. I admire not just who she is, but who she’s becoming.\nPersonal takeaway? True connections don’t fade with time or distance. Professional takeaway? Beyond job titles and to-do lists: The best teams aren’t built just on skills, but on shared purpose, mutual admiration, and trust. Impact outlasts presence: Even after leaving Chennai, the work still lives on, in the initiatives we co-designed, and in the conversations I continue to have with the team. Legacy doesn’t always come with fanfare, sometimes, it’s quiet, consistent, and lasting. Learning has no hierarchy: She\u0026rsquo;s younger than me, but I’ve learned just as much from her, about resilience, innovation, and how to stay grounded. Growth truly happens in both directions. Beyond our work, we still bond over other little things, like our favorite cup of strong black coffee (no sugar, always!).\nAnd her visit came at a special time, close to six months into my new role at Cankids. Half a year in, and the journey is just beginning. It was scary stepping into this role, but I feel the growth unfolding. I couldn’t be prouder of myself for taking this leap, and for everyone who encouraged me to say yes. Change is scary. But you grow beyond what you imagine.\nWhen I joined, I thought I’d be focusing just on health communication, advocacy writing, and a bit of PR. But here I am, unexpectedly handling general media communications for a PAN India organization. I’m still figuring it out (honestly, struggling sometimes), but I’m getting there. And, yes, I’m still honing my understanding of palliative care and mental health advocacy for the long run… learning as I go, from the incredible people I meet. I’m thankful for the opportunity. Thankful for the journey. Today, as I gave her a warm send-off back to Chennai, I felt the need to share this, as a reminder of the beautiful relationships that shape both our personal and professional journeys. Here’s to those meaningful connections, and to the incredible women who lift each other up. After all, it’s us, we’ve always got each other. Goodbyes are never easy, but perhaps that’s their gift, they remind us of what’s truly worth holding on to.\nHere’s to passion, purpose, and the people who make it all meaningful. Thank you, Sorna. Like I always say, I’m proud of you!\n","date":"2025-04-05T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2025-04-06 at 11.55.24.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/when-passion-meets-purpose-even-a-workspace-becomes-home/","title":"When passion meets purpose, even a workspace becomes home!"},{"content":"The Challenge of Starting Over Moving to a New City and Finding Comfort in Unexpected Places\nLeaving home and moving to a new city has been one of the most challenging phases of my life. Navigating unfamiliar surroundings and struggling with long-distance relationships personally, and relationships here at work, left me feeling isolated. In the midst of this turmoil, Mitch Albom’s books, Tuesdays with Morrie and Have a Little Faith, offered a much-needed sense of comfort and perspective.\nThough Have a Little Faith is undeniably rooted in religious themes, it resonated with me during a time when I was grappling with loneliness and searching for solace. It reminded me to seek faith, whether in God, in people, or even in myself. Over the past month, as I experienced ups and downs, I began to understand life and relationships in a way that mirrored the teachings of these books from the Mentors of Mitch Albom, and the wisdom imparted by my own mentor in 2022, someone who became my “Morrie.”\nThe Power of Mentorship: Finding My Morrie How Mitch Albom’s Books Resonate with My Own Experiences\n“We read through his old sermons and discussed their relevance. I found I could share almost anything with Reb. He had a way of looking you in the eye and making you feel as though the world had stopped and you were all that mattered. Maybe this was his gift to the job. Or maybe it was the job’s gift to him.” - Quote from Have a Little Faith. I’ve often wondered if my mentor’s compassion comes from being a pediatrician or if she had a soft spot for me specifically. At one point, I even asked her. She simply replied, “We don’t always know why we do what we do for someone, it’s the universe’s call.” That’s why I deeply believe in the power of the universe, the kindness it inspires, and the wisdom of my mentor. As I read Tuesdays with Morrie and Have a Little Faith, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy over Mitch and Morrie’s unique bond. But more than that, I kept thinking of my mentor, the one person who has been my constant source of guidance and inspiration. I never set out to read books on mentorship, but Tuesdays with Morrie came to me randomly during a visit to the Museo Camera event with Cankids. It was in the Honor Library there, and I couldn’t resist buying it for myself after starting to read it. Ever since I arrived here, it’s felt like I carried her mentorship with me, it’s one of the things that keeps me going. Much like Mitch is grateful for his time with Morrie and his moments with the Reb, I will always be grateful for the moments I’ve shared with her. Whether it was sitting together in the OPD, asking to speak with her privately and walking her to her car, or showing up at her home unannounced and finding her making time for me, even on a busy Sunday morning - it all meant the world to me. These memories are countless, and I could go on and on. Her support has been invaluable, and I am forever thankful for her presence in my life. Learning from Life\u0026rsquo;s Struggles Finding Peace Amid Misunderstandings and Personal Growth\nLife hasn’t been easy lately. Misunderstandings with family and struggles at work weighed heavily on me, especially because I felt I wasn’t in the wrong. I kept voicing my frustrations, only for the right causes though, but still, they didn’t bring peace or resolution. As I was reading these books, and especially today particularly during my vulnerable moment as I am feeling terribly sick with my on-going mental exhaustion, I found myself reevaluating my perspective. Morrie’s lessons on forgiveness and letting go deeply impacted me. If Morrie could forgive and release his burdens, why couldn’t I? I decided to make peace with those around me, choosing love and understanding over lingering resentment. Even though I was feeling sick last weekend and going through an emotional roller coaster, I still went Christmas shopping for my family and picked up some home essentials. There were moments when my ego wanted to take over, and I thought about letting go, but then I reminded myself what if that next year, I might not be able to celebrate Christmas at home. The thought of \u0026ldquo;what if?\u0026rdquo; echoed in my mind. Life is so short, and nothing is permanent. It was a wake-up call for me, reminding me of a conversation between Mitch and Morrie, where they discussed what Morrie would do if he had 24 healthy hours to live.\nBefore my transfer, I had so many plans, spending time with friends and family, going on one-day bike trips, but right before I left, I fell ill with an unknown fever. I had never been this sick all year, but it hit me just before I was about to leave. I ended up getting admitted to the hospital for a week. And that’s life, isn’t it?\n“What if you had one day, perfectly healthy?” I asked myself.“What would you do?”“Twenty-four hours?” Morrie replied.“Twenty-four hours.”“Well, let’s see. I’d get up in the morning, do my exercises, have a lovely breakfast with sweet rolls and tea, go for a swim, and then invite my friends over for a nice lunch. I’d have them come one or two at a time so we could talk about their families, their struggles, and remind each other of how much we mean to one another. Then I’d take a walk in a garden with trees, enjoy the colors, watch the birds, and take in the nature I’ve missed for so long. In the evening, we’d all go to a restaurant for some great pasta—maybe some duck, I love duck—and then we’d dance the night away. I’d dance with all the wonderful partners until I was exhausted. Then, I’d go home and have a deep, peaceful sleep.”It seemed so simple, so ordinary. I expected him to mention something extravagant, like flying to Italy or having lunch with the President. After months of being unable to move, how could he find perfection in such a simple day?\nBut then it hit me, that was the point. The beauty and fulfillment Morrie found in the simplest moments, in connecting with others, and in appreciating the life he had left. It made me rethink everything.\nI even left messages to a few of them today, well not everyone was ready to accept the peace, but it is okay, I reminded myself to breathe. The Healing Power of Forgiveness Applying Morrie\u0026rsquo;s Lessons to My Own Life\nIf you have known me as a writer for the past ten years, or even as an individual, you know I’m big on love and kindness. Most of my writing revolves around these principles, which also form the core of my life philosophy: LOVE. This conviction makes Morrie’s words resonate even more:\n“It’s not just other people we need to forgive, Mitch,” he finally whispered. “We also need to forgive ourselves. For all the things we didn’t do. All the things we should have done. You can’t get stuck on the regrets of what should have happened. That doesn’t help you when you get to where I am.”\nAs someone who constantly criticizes myself, this was a revelation. Even today, I am having a hard time forgiving myself for taking time off work being terribly sick, knowing I’ll soon need additional personal leave. Despite reading Morrie’s wisdom, I’m still learning how to implement it in my life. It is easier said than done, isn’t it, haha. The Role of Relationships in Our Lives Why We Need Others to Thrive\nMitch Albom’s writing has solidified his place as one of my favorite authors. Both Tuesdays with Morrie and Have a Little Faith are true stories that draw from Albom’s personal life. The authenticity of these narratives makes them even more poignant and relatable.\nTuesdays with Morrie recounts Albom’s relationship with his college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who becomes his mentor and source of endless wisdom. They reconnect years later when Morrie is diagnosed with ALS, and their subsequent conversations tackle profound topics like death, family, emotions, and forgiveness.\nMorrie’s ability to face his mortality with grace and love is both heartbreaking and inspiring. One of my favorite quotes is when Morrie says:\n“Dying is only one thing to be sad over, Mitch. Living unhappily is something else.”\nThis struck a chord with me because so many of us, as Morrie says, live within a culture that teaches us the wrong things. Morrie’s advice to “create your own culture” is both simple and powerful. For me, this was a reminder to live authentically, despite the misunderstandings and struggles that weigh me down. Ever since my transfer here, I’ve spent much of my time here feeling unhappy, whether it was conflicts with colleagues or misunderstandings with my family due to the distance. These tensions have been weighing on me, slowly eating away at my peace. With my health now failing as well, I reached my breaking point. It was during this time that Mitch Albom and his mentors became my refuge, offering the comfort and wisdom I desperately needed.\nFaith and Action: What I Learned from Have a Little Faith Faith as an Act of Integrity and Love\nApart from the long-distance relationship weighing on me already, work here, too, has its challenges. There’s already so much drama in the world, why carry it into our daily lives? Since we spend a significant portion of our time with colleagues, I’ve realized the value of striving for harmony. I may not embody all of Morrie’s or the Rabbi’s principles, but I’ve decided to live more in the present, appreciating those around me and spreading love wherever I can.\nYes, work hasn’t always been easy ever since I got my transfer here, but there have been moments and people who brought me comfort. Dr. Neelima and I faced a challenge together, and we both took responsibility for each other. I truly admired the way she handled it, it meant a lot to me. I also can’t thank Kevin enough for his kindness since Day 1. I genuinely enjoy working with him and secretly hope to \u0026ldquo;borrow\u0026rdquo; a little from his network, haha!\nAnd Soumya Sir, though I’ve never seen you, didn’t know what you looked like, and only recently heard your voice, thank you for standing up for me, supporting the right causes, and sharing your “Gyaan”. It means a lot! \u0026ldquo;Be compassionate,\u0026rdquo; Morrie whispered. \u0026ldquo;And take responsibility for each other. If we only learned those lessons, this world would be such a better place.\u0026rdquo; He paused, took a breath, and then added his mantra: \u0026ldquo;Love each other or die.\u0026rdquo;\nQuiet Connections, Lasting Impact Reflections on My Journey and the Importance of Being Present\nAnother favorite moment was Morrie’s reflection on relationships:\n“In the beginning of life, when we are infants, we need others to survive, right? And at the end of life, when you get like me, you need others to survive, right? But here’s the secret: in between, we need others as well.”\nThis wisdom, coupled with his call to “invest in the human family,” reminded me of the importance of valuing connections over material pursuits. Sometimes, I get so frustrated that I want to run away and be alone. But, as Morrie teaches, even amidst conflict, we need relationships to survive and thrive.\nA Future Filled with Love and Writing My Aspiration to Share My Story through Writing\nIn Have a Little Faith, Mitch Albom takes readers on a journey exploring faith, forgiveness, and redemption through the lives of two men, a Jewish rabbi and a Christian pastor. The Reb’s unwavering commitment to his rituals and selfless service deeply inspired me. One quote that struck me was, “Faith is about doing. You are how you act, not just how you believe.” It reminded me to live with integrity and kindness, to be a person of action rather than just words. In that sense, I’m proud of the person I strive to be. I had a thought-provoking conversation with a junior colleague who is deeply rooted in faith and religion. It was during one of my final afternoons at the BMT Unit before moving. We debated the concept of God, and I shared my perspective: I don’t believe in “God” as a figure but rather in the divine within people. Like how patients see doctors as gods, it’s about how you act. That, to me, is faith. That is God, the person you choose to be!\nThe book’s reflections on enduring love also resonated with me, especially this line: “That kind of love - the kind you realize you already have by the life you’ve created together - that’s the kind that lasts.” It made me reflect on relationships that, despite hardships, remain strong through cooperation and selflessness. For me, it’s never been easy, but I’m learning to make peace, one step at a time. At its core, Have a Little Faith emphasizes that the journey to belief, whether in God, in others, or in ourselves, is rarely straightforward, easy, or logical. One quote beautifully captures this sentiment: “When you come to the end, that’s where God begins.” When I first arrived here, I hit my emotional threshold so many times. At one point, I couldn\u0026rsquo;t even afford my therapy, nor could I reach out to people who once felt like my support system. In those moments, I found myself crying out, “God!” And perhaps, in that vulnerability, that faith comforted me! In those moments, these books became my sanctuary.\nMitch Albom’s ability to weave deeply personal and spiritual themes into universally relatable narratives is remarkable. While reading these books, I felt a renewed sense of purpose, to forgive, to love, and to cherish the present. His storytelling reminded me that the power of faith lies not just in religion, but in the connections we build with one another. It is definitely not easy, but it can be done. I recently had a conversation with one of my former supervisors, and we talked about how challenging things have been for me here. I mentioned how, even though I don’t speak with everyone, my absence, even for a single day, gets noticed. He shared something that stayed with me. He said, “Even though you were quiet and reserved, I remember during your first meeting at the office, everyone was casually talking to you. When I asked others, ‘That girl doesn’t even speak much—how do you all know her so well?’ they said, ‘She’s a nice kid. She talks to us at the hospital and always gets things done.’ Your presence was felt and known, in a very genuine and loving way.” That really struck a chord with me. It made me realize the connections I had built there, even in my quiet way. I truly felt that during my farewell. People from the hospital, even from two different ones I had worked with, and those from my organization all came together to send me off with such warmth and kindness. It was a moment I’ll always hold close to my heart. \u0026ldquo;As long as we can love each other, and remember the feeling of love we had, we can die without ever really going away. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here.\u0026ldquo;\u0026ldquo;Death ends a life, not a relationship.\u0026rdquo;\nAs I finished reading this book during a challenging phase in my life, all these memories came flooding back, and it made me truly appreciate the beauty of human connection. It’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but we can always keep trying.\nClosing Thoughts The Lasting Wisdom of Mitch Albom’s Works and Their Impact on My Life\nBoth books are masterpieces, and I feel fortunate to have read them at a time when I needed their wisdom the most. Mitch Albom’s works through his personal life are a testament to the beauty of human connection, the importance of forgiveness, and the enduring impact of love.\nI’ve always written from personal experiences, and while I’ve faced criticism for sharing so much, I’ve also received an overwhelming amount of love over the past year. Hearing from juniors and random younger versions of myself about how my raw stories helped them has made it all worth it. After reading Mitch Albom, I’m even more certain of the kind of writer I want to be. So, who knows? Maybe you’ll see a book from me soon! Finishing the draft of my book is definitely on my 2025 bucket list! If you\u0026rsquo;ve made it to the end, send me all your best wishes for my upcoming book! I’ll know if you\u0026rsquo;ve read the full review, haha!\n","date":"2024-12-11T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2024-12-12 at 20.37.15.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/a-journey-of-love-forgiveness-and-mentorship-embracing-lifes-lessons-from-mitch-alboms-book/","title":"A Journey of Love, Forgiveness, and Mentorship - Embracing life's lessons from Mitch Albom's Book"},{"content":"Hi all,\nSo, here\u0026rsquo;s another chapter in my career journey, a story that unfolded unexpectedly, filled with moments of learning, growth, and a sprinkle of fear! It all began with Pediatric Hematology Oncology Support Services Conference (PHOSSCON) 2023, where I first networked with amazing people in the field of pediatric hematology and oncology (https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/phosscon-2023-a-transformative-experience/). That conference was a turning point. Fast forward to this year: moving to Delhi wasn’t on my radar, let alone attending a conference in Jammu! But when PHOSSCON 2024 came around, I knew I had to be part of it. The agenda alone had me excited, discussions on Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT), and participation from NGOs focused on thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Just wow! Having Shobha ji present was an absolute privilege. With over four decades of advocacy for thalassemia, she exemplified passion and commitment. Her simplicity and humility shone as she actively engaged throughout the session. Her dedication is something I aspire to emulate in my own work to advocate with purpose and unwavering energy.\nThough I was excited about the conference, there were a few hiccups along the way, particularly while booking for travel etc, which added some discomfort. Also, considering I can barely handle Chennai’s mild winter, you can imagine how the cold in Delhi and Jammu felt for me! There were moments when I felt sick to my stomach, with a pounding head and all, but in the end, it was absolutely worth it. The universe showed me kindness through the people I met there, as I briefly mentioned in a previous post. From a kind stranger who turned out to be an oncologist and is now a friend, to reuniting with someone special, and finally ending the trip with a heartwarming exchange in Tamil (though I still reflexively replied, \u0026ldquo;Haan ji\u0026rdquo; instead of Tamil, lol!), it was quite the journey, both personally and professionally. A special mention and a heartfelt thank you to Mr Sandip Jariwala, Dr Neelima, Dr Aalapti, Ms Chanchal, Mr. Chinchith Krishnan, Mr Varun Sharma, and Mr Mukesh for their kindness and support during the conference days!\nI\u0026rsquo;ve always embraced my role as the one working behind the scenes, and reading Quiet by Susan Cain has made me appreciate and take pride in my introversion. It’s taught me to value the strength that comes from working quietly yet diligently. Time and again, my hard work behind the curtains has paid off, often when I least expected it, just as it did during this conference. So yeah, it was a journey of challenges, growth, and subtle recognitions! Here’s a quick rundown of what the two-day conference brought to the table:\nThe conference, for me, was wholesome, a perfect blend of learning and personal satisfaction. Seeing critical topics like BMT, thalassemia, sickle cell disease, financial protection, and palliative care take center stage reminded me why I’m so passionate about this field. Among the many inspiring figures and sessions, Shobha Tuli ji, the ALSAC team, and CA Dr. Subhajit Sahoo stood out as incredible sources of knowledge and inspiration.\nShobha Tuli ji: A visionary for Thalassemia advocacy Representing Thalassemics India, Shobha ji’s expertise was evident as she discussed challenges and proposed solutions for Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT) under the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY). Her advocacy for expanding Ayushman Bharat coverage in TBSY reflected a vision for equitable and accessible care across India. Her passion for the cause reinforced my belief in the power of sustained advocacy. She exemplifies the dedication needed to create systemic change, inspiring me to pursue my goals with the same intensity and purpose. ALSAC Team: Masters of fundraising innovation Speakers Sri Kankarla, Priya Tummalapalli, and Paola Cassana from ALSAC shared their unique fundraising approaches that support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, sustaining 87% of its budget. The session highlighted strategies like data-driven campaigns, grassroots events, and digital fundraising, alongside their success in supporting international projects like the Lifeline Foundation in Ghana. The ALSAC team showcased the importance of balancing innovation with grassroots efforts. Their success encouraged me to explore creative ways to build partnerships and ensure sustainability for future healthcare initiatives. CA Dr Subhajit Sahoo: Demystifying CSR and financial compliance Dr Sahoo’s session on CSR compliance, 12A \u0026amp; 80G registrations, and FCRA guidelines was highly engaging, drawing the attention of nearly every NGO present. He emphasized the importance of proper registrations for tax exemptions, transparent documentation, and diversifying fundraising efforts to ensure long-term financial stability. This session piqued my curiosity and inspired me to delve deeper into the technical aspects of NGO compliance. Understanding these intricacies will be vital as I work toward establishing my long-term vision of creating impactful healthcare initiatives. Few other session highlights from Day 1 \u0026amp; 2: My Learnings from PHOSSCON 2024: Advocacy, Growth, and Proud Moments Day 1: Building bridges in patient-centric care Session 1: NGO presentations on Hematology and Oncology Featured impactful presentations from organizations like St. Jude Child Care Center, Sickle Cell Saksham Rajasthan Foundation, Hope Child Cancer Care Foundation, DigiSwasthya, ICS Ulagam, Umeedein, Aarambh Palliative Care, KASH Foundation, etc,. Discussions centered on improving care for sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and pediatric cancer through innovative initiatives. The passion displayed by these NGOs underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in creating sustainable care models. Session 2: Gaps and Challenges in patient-centric care Tackled issues like late diagnosis, inadequate access to care, and stigma in conditions like sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and childhood cancer. Actionable solutions included expanding psychosocial support and improving treatment accessibility in rural areas. This session inspired me to think about how holistic care models could be standardized across different healthcare settings. Day 2: A path toward holistic care and survivorship Session 7: Supportive Care Services Covered essential aspects like nutrition, psychological support, and infection control in pediatric oncology. Stressed on the role of family-based counseling and standardized guidelines. Strengthening family support systems alongside medical care resonated with my interest in palliative care. Session 8: Financial protection for families Addressed the financial hardships families face due to treatment costs and suggested strategies like universal health coverage and employment support for caregivers. Financial security is vital for holistic patient care, and this session shed light on potential solutions to address indirect treatment costs. Session 9: Status of Bone Marrow Transplants in India Focused on accessibility barriers and funding challenges in BMT procedures. The session emphasized the need for awareness and financial aid for life-saving treatments, reinforcing the importance of advocacy in healthcare. In this session, we also had Ms. Sumati Mishra, a representative from Datri Stem Cell Registry, which whom we discussed donor availability for Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT). The discussion emphasized the need for increasing donor registrations and expanding the donor pool. As we aim to create awareness outside, it\u0026rsquo;s important to reflect on our own actions. PHOSSCON for the first time saw 100 registered attendees from 39 organizations, but have we ourselves registered as donors, if eligible? Why not take this opportunity to create awareness among our employees and conduct a donor registration drive within our organizations? By doing so, we can make a real impact on the availability of life-saving donors and contribute to a cause that could save countless lives. Let’s start the change within. What do you think as an organization? If you’ve attended PHOSSCON and believe it’s possible to organize a donor drive within your organization, let me know your thoughts. Session 11: Indian Childhood Cancer Initiative (ICCI) Presented updates on task forces working on psychosocial care, survivorship, and access to care. Highlighted the need for survivorship clinics and national guidelines for long-term care. A call to action for integrated survivorship care and follow-up guidelines aligns closely with my vision for improving continuity of care. Session 12: Continuity of care - Survivorship and Palliative Care Focused on long-term challenges faced by childhood cancer survivors, including medical, psychological, and social reintegration. Stressed the importance of integrating palliative care from diagnosis to survivorship. This session reaffirmed my belief that palliative care is essential for ensuring dignity and quality of life, a cause I hold close to my heart. Proud Moment for CanKids KidsCan A defining moment was the recognition of Ms Poonam Bagai, Chairman of CanKids KidsCan, with the Lifetime Achievement Award at PHOCON 2024. Her unwavering dedication to children with cancer continues to inspire us all. Few Takeaways Advocacy is crucial: Leaders like Shobha ji and Poonam ma’am remind me of the power of persistence and dedication in making systemic changes. Collaboration matters: Learning from ALSAC\u0026rsquo;s fundraising strategies and engaging with NGOs during compliance sessions reinforced the importance of working together. The Role of Compliance: Dr. Sahoo’s session was a reminder that strong foundations are essential for long-term success in the non-profit world. Holistic care is the future: The emphasis on survivorship and palliative care aligns with my own aspirations in healthcare advocacy and psychosocial support. PHOSSCON has yet again given me networking opportunity, left me inspired, motivated, and ready to take the next steps in my journey toward meaningful change in healthcare - in the field of Palliative care.\nHere\u0026rsquo;s to more growth, advocacy, and opportunities to make an impact. Jammu, you were cold, but you warmed my heart with this experience!\n(And yes, as much as I\u0026rsquo;m a passionate Public health advocate, the \u0026lsquo;punny\u0026rsquo; writer in me just couldn\u0026rsquo;t resist—sorry, not sorry! Haha.)\nUntil next time, PHOSSCON!\n","date":"2024-11-26T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2024-11-27 at 04.04.56.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/in-the-cold-for-a-cause-passion-once-again-ignited-at-phosscon/","title":"In the Cold for a Cause: Passion once again ignited at PHOSSCON"},{"content":"It’s hard to believe it’s already been a month since I moved to Delhi! Yayy, you can all wish me Month Anniversary! Well, what a whirlwind it’s been, full of challenges, moments of growth, and different learning experiences. Adjusting to a new city, especially one where I don’t speak the local language, has tested me in ways I never imagined. The first few weeks were consumed by the chaos of work and accommodation searches, leaving little room for reflection or homesickness. But by the third week, the weight of loneliness and self-doubt crept in and cried myself to sleep. My routine became a monotonous cycle of work, meals, coffee, sleep, music, and video calls, a comforting but isolating rhythm.\nTo give myself the space to truly settle in, I decided to put my freelancing projects on hold for now. It’s been a bit of a mixed blessing, on one hand, I’ve had more time to reflect, while on the other, it’s given me plenty of time alone with my thoughts. Although I’m eager to pursue some of my passions in the future, like writing a book or presenting research papers, for now, I’m prioritizing my full-time work and allowing myself to ease into this transition. While I’ve only been in the role for a month and haven’t had much formal orientation, I’ve already been entrusted with important tasks. The trust my superiors and team have shown in me has been motivating. Right now, my focus is on learning, building relationships, and soaking up every experience, this, in itself, has been the most valuable takeaway so far.\nFinding balance: a key lesson in self-care One of the biggest adjustments has been finding the right balance between work and self-care. Back in Chennai, I was an early riser who enjoyed morning runs, but in Delhi, I found myself staying up late and waking up past noon on weekends. Realizing this wasn’t sustainable, I decided to change things up and spent today’s break doing something productive for myself. I joined a cycling tour with *Delhi By Cycle*, and it was exactly the kind of refreshment I needed! The 15 km ride through Lutyens’ Delhi, even with concerns about the air quality, was invigorating and helped me reconnect with the city. The tour guide, Mr. Utkarsh, shared some incredible insights into community initiatives that are positively impacting Delhi. It was uplifting to be part of something meaningful.\nLater in the day, I connected with my BMT kids via video call for their program. Though the call wasn’t perfect, it was a beautiful reminder of home, grounding me and bringing a sense of calm and connection.\nInspiration from Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom In moments like these, I often think of a quote from Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom: “There are some mornings when I cry and cry and mourn for myself. Some mornings, I’m so angry and bitter. But it doesn’t last too long. Then I get up and say, I want to live…” While my struggles aren’t quite the same, this sentiment resonates deeply with me. Not every day is easy, and not every day is productive, but each day brings lessons and opportunities for growth.\nGratitude for the journey and support As I look back on this month, I’m deeply grateful for the kindness and support I’ve received along the way. Special thanks to Stella Ma’am for connecting me with such inspiring and beautiful individuals here in Delhi, and to Lalitha Munoth Ma’am for offering such a warm and peaceful welcome at your place. It’s moments like these that truly make this journey special.\nI’m excited for what’s to come! I’m embracing each new experience with an open heart, and I can’t wait to see how this adventure unfolds. Stay tuned for my upcoming reviews of two Mitch Albom books -those will be coming soon!\nLooking forward to more lessons, more connections, and continued growth as I embrace the journey ahead!\n","date":"2024-11-15T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/WhatsApp Image 2024-11-16 at 19.38.11.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/reflections-on-my-first-month-in-delhi-a-journey-of-growth-learning-and-new-beginnings/","title":"Reflections on my first month in Delhi: A journey of growth, learning, and new beginnings"},{"content":"A Journey of Self-Discovery: Revisiting Fiction Hi all!\nHere I am back with a book review. I still have a few books from this year that I haven’t reviewed yet. Since I’m in Delhi for another three days, just enjoying some \u0026lsquo;The Eagles\u0026rsquo; music alone in my room and diving into my next reads, I figured it’s the perfect time to write a review. This particular book felt like it needed to be reviewed now. People often think I’m not fun enough to read fiction, so here’s a fiction review for you. And of course, it turned out to be quite deep, well Haruki Murakami has that effect!\nFrom Fiction to Philosophy: My Reading Evolution Well, as a young reader, I started with fiction like everyone else, indulging in daydreams and imaginative worlds. Over time, my focus shifted to non-fiction and philosophical works, reflecting my evolving priorities. Yet, as a passionate writer and daydreamer, I still enjoy fiction. A few months ago, I picked up Haruki Murakami’s Kafka on the Shore, which turned out to be quite deep.\nI spent a leisurely weekend a few months ago taking a bike ride to Mahab Beach, where I watched the old Tamil film Mozhi and read Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami. The novel is a rich, layered story that mixes magical realism, psychological drama, and philosophical ideas. It follows two separate storylines that eventually come together in interesting ways.\nPlot Overview: Kafka Tamura’s Journey In this book, the story follows a 15-year-old runaway named Kafka Tamura, who flees Tokyo to escape a family curse foretold by his clairvoyant father. This curse predicts that Kafka will kill his father and commit incest. The intertwined stories of Kafka and Nakata unveil profound truths about their identities and destinies, culminating in a resolution that invites multiple interpretations.\nPersonal Reflections: Resonance with My Own Journey I found myself reflecting deeply on my own journey of self-discovery and the quest for survival. The novel follows Kafka, who sets out to redefine himself, a quest that resonates with my own navigation through uncertainty and self-doubt. Kafka\u0026rsquo;s struggles with insecurity and fear echo my own concerns about whether I can truly make it on my own.\nFavorite Quotes: Insights from the Book One of my favorite quotes from the book is: “And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.”\nNakata’s Quest: A Parallel Journey At the same time, an older man named Nakata, who possesses the unique ability to communicate with cats, embarks on a search for a missing cat and becomes entangled with Johnnie Walker. Nakata\u0026rsquo;s quest intersects with Kafka\u0026rsquo;s.\nKafka’s Refuge: The Mystical Guesthouse Upon arriving in Takamatsu, Kafka takes refuge in a guesthouse run by the mysterious Miss Saeki and her assistant, Hoshino. There, Kafka experiences a range of strange phenomena, including encounters with a talking crow and the power to alter reality through his dreams and thoughts. His journey also involves a peculiar meeting with a young woman named Sakura, who may or may not be connected to his sister.\nNakata’s Search: The Enigmatic Johnnie Walker Nakata, an older man with cognitive impairments, is on a mission to find a lost cat named Goma. His search leads him through various odd jobs and an encounter with the enigmatic Johnnie Walker, a sinister spirit who collects cat souls. Nakata\u0026rsquo;s confrontation with Johnnie Walker results in a supernatural battle, leaving Nakata with feelings of confusion and loss.\nIntersecting Paths: Nakata and Hoshino’s Journey Nakata\u0026rsquo;s journey intersects with Hoshino, a truck driver who becomes a crucial ally in Nakata’s search for the missing cat. Together, they navigate a series of bizarre and mystical events that shed light on Nakata’s unique abilities and his role in the larger scheme of things.\nAs Nakata delves deeper into his journey, he gains a greater understanding of his own nature and the cosmic forces influencing his life. His connection with Kafka and his quest for answers become increasingly intertwined as they both grapple with the mysterious and metaphysical aspects of their existence.\nThroughout the novel, it becomes evident that Kafka and Nakata\u0026rsquo;s stories are connected in both literal and symbolic ways. Kafka’s struggle with his identity and Nakata’s quest for understanding converge in a climactic moment, revealing profound truths about their intertwined destinies. The novel concludes with many questions remaining open to interpretation, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the nature of reality.\nPersonal Resonance: Finding Connection and Confidence The novel creates a world where the line between reality and imagination is fluid, examining the effects of past traumas and the quest for personal meaning in a seemingly chaotic universe. The interwoven stories of Kafka and Nakata, combined with the novel\u0026rsquo;s rich symbolism and enigmatic characters, make it a captivating and thought-provoking read. It encourages readers to reflect on the nature of existence and the deeper connections between individuals and their inner selves.\nKafka’s struggle to escape his past and find his identity resonates with my own desire to prove my independence and overcome self-doubt. I find parallels between his fear of an inescapable storm and my own anxieties about facing the unknown. The novel’s blend of the surreal and the real captures the disorientation and mixed emotions that accompany the journey of forging a new path. I find its themes profoundly resonant with my own journey of self-discovery and survival.\nOther favorite quotes from the book: In everybody’s life there’s a point of no return. And in a very few cases, a point where you can’t go forward anymore. And when we reach that point, all we can do is quietly accept the fact. That’s how we survive. Taking crazy things seriously is a serious waste of time.” (and you know what life is crazy, and my mentor always says don’t take anything in life seriously, so yeah..) Everyone of us is losing something precious to us. Lost opportunities, lost possibilities, and feelings we can never get back again. That’s part of what it means to be alive.” ","date":"2024-09-07T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/Kafka on the shore/WhatsApp Image 2024-09-08 at 3.24.04 PM.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/a-journey-of-self-discovery-revisiting-fiction-kafka-on-the-shore-by-haruki-murakami/","title":"A Journey of Self-Discovery: Revisiting Fiction - Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami"},{"content":"Hi everyone,\nI’m excited to share that I’m in Delhi for the first time, and it’s been quite an experience so far. I’m here for the Indian Childhood Cancer Institute Task Force meeting on setting standards for Pediatric Psycho-Oncology Services. Day 1 was truly incredible. I’m honored to be part of this task force meeting, which includes pediatric oncologists, psycho-oncologists, psychologists, neuropsychologists, founders, researchers, and parents of survivors - and then there’s me. It’s been a bit overwhelming, but also a fantastic opportunity to network and learn, even though I only recognized a few familiar faces.\nModeration and Contributors The session was moderated by Dr Ramandeep Arora, a Pediatric Oncologist whom I first met at PHOSCCON. It’s remarkable to see a physician so dedicated to this cause, and I’m genuinely impressed by his commitment. I also want to give a shoutout to Dr Ruchira Misra and all the other physicians who stayed engaged throughout the sessions and made valuable contributions.\nKey Points from the First Session The first session, presented by Lori Wiener, Director of the Psychosocial Support and Research Program and Co-Director at NIH, focused on ‘Role Model’ services established globally. She emphasized four key points that caught my attention:\nInvolving Multidisciplinary Experts: Engaging pediatric psychologists, oncologists, social workers, and other stakeholders. Mapping Essential Services: Continuously tracking available services such as nutrition, psychology, and social work to identify and address gaps. Standardizing Assessment Tools: Implementing uniform assessment tools. Drafting a Position Statement: Creating a comprehensive position statement on psychosocial support to outline principles and guidelines for effective care. These points were significant throughout the session. For example, mapping essential services highlighted the pressing need to address gaps in manpower. Additionally, we discussed the need for uniformity in screening and assessment, which was another major concern for the team.\nBreakout Sessions and Discussions I found the breakout sessions to be particularly engaging, as they allowed everyone to share their perspectives and collaborate on discussions. The first breakout session focused on evaluating and triaging referrals, considering the needs of children, parents, and siblings. We discussed our current resources, identified gaps, and explored ways to address them. Training, funding, and manpower emerged as critical needs from this discussion. The subsequent breakout sessions focused on the roles of carers, siblings, and family members in supporting the psychosocial well-being of the patient. In the session on mental health interventions, the team proposed various training programs and the development of supportive materials. One idea that particularly stood out to me, though not hearing it for the first time, but is not yet widely implemented in India. It involves using play sets and dolls to demonstrate medical procedures, such as how lines are inserted, to help children feel more at ease. Additionally, picture books about treatments like BMT can help prepare children and reduce their anxiety.\nNotable Observations and Simple Interventions I was also impressed by Brinda Sitaram Ma’am, the Founder Director of COPER and Psycho-Oncologist, who shared a notable observation. She discovered that using a simple intervention, like offering a lollipop (she observed that he likes lollipop), could significantly ease a child\u0026rsquo;s anxiety. This approach not only helped the child undergo a CT scan but also allowed him to complete all his radiation treatments without any tantrums. This example highlights how a simple, thoughtful observation can serve as a powerful intervention.\nCommunity Engagement and Advocacy During the session on psychosocial support for siblings and carers, one key point that resonated with me was the importance of community engagement. I appreciate Sandeep for echoing my thoughts on the disparity between standards of care for upper-middle-class patients versus those from below-poverty-line (BPL) backgrounds. In rural India, where families often have multiple children, the challenges are even greater. Families may struggle to provide adequate care due to financial constraints and the difficulty of managing multiple children when one is sick. We discussed the need for community involvement, particularly through Anganwadi workers, and advocated for assigning roles and responsibilities to community leaders to support siblings and families. Additionally, we talked about the importance of government advocacy to improve overall support systems.\nReflections on Day 1 and Gratitude Overall, key themes that emerged on Day 1 included the need for additional funding and manpower, enhanced specialty training, advocacy, government lobbying, and the development of standardized screening and assessment tools. The primary objective of this two-day meeting was to gather all these stakeholders to share their insights, identify gaps and needs, and collaboratively develop comprehensive standards and guidelines for pediatric psycho-oncology services, and it was well served!\nA big thank you to Poonam Ma’am for creating this opportunity for me to network and gain a deeper understanding of the system. I had the chance to speak with researchers and physicians, though I’m not tagging them here, and their insights were truly impressive. Rhea Duruvala Ma’am, your perspectives were outstanding, thank you for sharing them. Special thanks to Ms Lori, Ms Viviana, Ms Valerie who also throughout their sessions enlighted us. And a special thanks to Stella Ma’am for being as wonderful as ever; it was great catching up with you.\nPreparing for Day 2 Here I am, all dressed up and catching up with Day 2.\n","date":"2024-09-04T18:30:00Z","image":"https://assets.tina.io/e17a439e-b949-4da1-843f-d8220611db0b/static/day1-delhi/WhatsApp Image 2024-09-06 at 10.54.11.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/a-new-journey-in-delhi-setting-standards-for-pediatric-psycho-oncology-services/","title":"A New Journey in Delhi: Setting Standards for Pediatric Psycho-Oncology Services"},{"content":"Introduction I\u0026rsquo;ve finally managed to overcome my writer\u0026rsquo;s slump and procrastination and completed the reviews for one of my reads this year. One of my favourite books of the year is Walk with the Weary: Life-Changing Lessons in Healthcare by Dr M. R. Rajagopal. This book is a must-read for anyone in healthcare and allied fields.\nPersonal Connection to Palliative Care It holds a special place in my heart because palliative care has been a cornerstone of my commitment to this profession. As Dr Rajagopal mentions in Chapter 25, not every palliative care worker is as fortunate, with many succumbing to family pressures and opting for conventional careers. At one point, I too doubted my fit for this field due to lack of familial support and proper mentorship. However, Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s insights have been a significant source of motivation for me, as reflected in his words about the profound satisfaction derived from making a difference in people\u0026rsquo;s lives. Although I am still learning to cope with the bereavement of patients and the challenges faced by their families, I remain committed to bringing comfort and a smile to those in distress.\nRelevance to Allied Healthcare Workers Even though the book primarily addresses palliative care from a medical perspective, I, as an allied healthcare worker (medical social worker and transplant coordinator), found a deep connection with the experiences shared, interpreting them through my own lens. Chapter 25 resonated with me personally, as Dr Rajagopal had previously advised me on handling doubts about my ability to endure the emotional challenges of this field when I met him few months back during a workshop conducted by Golden Butterflies. In his book, he emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive community within the palliative care team, especially for introverts who may face burnout or depression. His advice to share struggles and seek support rather than battling them alone has guided me in managing my own feelings of burnout and anxiety.\nWriting Style and Storytelling As a beginner writer myself, I was captivated by Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s writing style in this genre. He begins the book with a poignant childhood memory involving his grandfather, who endures pain in silence until his grandmother comes to his aid. This anecdote underscores a crucial lesson: it\u0026rsquo;s okay to ask for help, a fundamental principle in pain and palliative care.\nAshla Rani, who was once a volunteer and is now a trustee at Pallium India, serves as a continual source of inspiration. Having lived with quadriplegia for over four years, she emphasizes that receiving care and support is a right, not a charity. Palliative care should be a universal right, accessible and available to everyone in need.\nDr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s commitment to Gandhian philosophy profoundly influenced his approach to palliative care. He embraced Gandhi\u0026rsquo;s belief in not turning away from necessary actions. Dr Rajagopal found purpose in pain management and palliative care, guided by Gandhi\u0026rsquo;s test of morality: whenever you are in doubt or when the self becomes too much with you, apply the following test: recall the face of the poorest and the weakest, who you may have seen and ask yourself if the step you contemplate is going to be use to them. Will they gain anything by it? Will it restore them to a control over their own life and destiny?\nHistorical Context of Pain Management In the mid-1960s, Dr Rajagopal recounts a harrowing experience involving his cousin, who suffered from a rare cancer of the sweat glands and tumors on his scalp. The pain was excruciating, and when the family requested pain relief, the physician responded with skepticism, questioning how cancer could ever be pain-free. At that time, the concept of alleviating cancer-related pain was virtually unheard of. It wasn\u0026rsquo;t until 1967 that the first modern hospice center was established in London by a British nurse and physician. This pioneer introduced the medical community to the idea of pain management and the belief that dying individuals deserved dignity, compassion, and respect.\nPersonal Experience in Patient Care Just as the British nurse-turned-physician championed the idea that dying individuals deserve dignity, compassion, and respect, I\u0026rsquo;ve always been guided by the belief that patients should be treated with dignity regardless of their background or the severity of their illness. This principle was reinforced by the physician I work with, whose approach to patient care inspired me to continue in this field. Despite my initial stereotypes and trust issues with the medical system, particularly in government sectors in India, my experience with this physician has proven those doubts wrong. She prioritizes patients, focusing not just on treating diseases but also on maintaining their dignity throughout their battle with life-threatening conditions. One memorable case was Baby T, a 5-month-old with SCID and Omenn Syndrome, who was brought to us at RGGGH for treatment. The situation was medically complex, but my physician\u0026rsquo;s commitment was unwavering: regardless of the outcome, our aim was to provide both the child and the mother with a comfort care and would be treated with the utmost dignity. The mother, already frail and financially strained, had invested all her hope in the treatment, relying on both the God in the human form and ‘the God\u0026rsquo; and the support of CM Health Insurance Scheme. This experience, among many others, deeply resonated with me as I read Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s book. Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s journey into anesthesiology highlights his belief that the greatest reward is when a patient wakes up pain-free at the end of an operation and asks, \u0026ldquo;Is it over?\u0026rdquo; He underscores that the true role of an anesthesiologist is to relieve suffering, not just to ensure patients are unconscious and immobile during surgery. Instead, anesthesiologists must ensure that patients are comfortable and pain-free post-surgery, a commitment that ultimately led Dr Rajagopal to develop a passion for pain management.\nImportance of Proper Pain Management One notable incident involved a cook named Morris, whom Dr Rajagopal treated with morphine for pain relief. When Morris returned for a follow-up, he was not grateful but rather frustrated because the morphine had not provided the expected relief. This experience underscored for Dr Rajagopal the critical importance of using opioids safely and appropriately to effectively manage pain. It became clear that achieving a balance in pain relief is essential for patient care. Dr Rajagopal emphasizes a guiding principle in his book: \u0026ldquo;Cure sometimes, relieve often, comfort always.\u0026rdquo; This rule is mentioned twice in the text, underscoring its significance in providing comprehensive patient care.\nAnother example is the case of Warrier, an elderly man with cancer who needed more than just medical treatment, he needed someone to listen. When I entered this field, my goal was to bridge the psychosocial gap often challenging for doctors to address, focusing on providing psychological comfort as a medical social worker. Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s book, however, made me realize that doctors, too, must go beyond treating the physical body. They have a responsibility to recognize, acknowledge, and honor the human aspect of their patients. This can be achieved if doctors embrace their roles as compassionate individuals who actively listen and engage with patients.\nThe Power of Compassionate Listening An inspiring case was that of 11-year-old Thasleena, who had a significant swelling in her thigh. Her treating physician recommended amputation, which she initially refused. When Thasleena came to Dr Rajagopal, he used his skills as a compassionate listener and storyteller, drawing on the story of Sudha Chandran from the movie Mayuri, who achieved success as a leg amputee. Although Thasleena ultimately had metastatic cancer in her lungs, she displayed remarkable hope and resilience in the time she had left, exemplifying the true power of palliative care.\nThe incident involving Shambu underscores the critical need for recognizing and addressing pain in the medical field. Shambu was in dire need of surgery, but neither the treating physician nor the family could obtain his consent until Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s pain and palliative care team intervened. By first addressing Shambu\u0026rsquo;s pain, Dr Rajagopal highlighted that pain is not merely suffering, it clouds the mind, making rational thought difficult and consuming every part of a person\u0026rsquo;s mental and physical space. Once Shambu\u0026rsquo;s pain was managed, he was able to think clearly and consent to the surgery. Dr Rajagopal also notes that long-term pain, such as chronic back pain, can cause irrevocable changes in a person, leading them to maintain a façade of normalcy in public while crumbling in private. The case of Sunshine highlights another important aspect of pain management and palliative care. Sometimes, when individuals describe their pain, they are dismissed as having merely a psychological issue. Sunshine\u0026rsquo;s pain was ignored, and she was directed only toward behavioral therapy. Dr Rajagopal notes that this issue is not unique to India; even in the US, people in pain can be dismissed as psychiatric cases, leaving them with limited treatment options. I recently witnessed this myself when a friend was told by several physicians she was referred to, \u0026ldquo;Get your mind strong\u0026rdquo; rather than receive appropriate pain management for her chronic condition. Having lived with chronic pain for over eight years, she is now afraid to admit her suffering for fear of being perceived as unstable, especially given her career in healthcare. Reading Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s insights on this issue felt like a comforting embrace, and I\u0026rsquo;m considering sharing his book with my friend to offer her some solace.\nThe Role of Palliative Care As Dr Rajagopal mentions in his book: “Palliative care provides a valuable alternative to aggressive life-support measures for those with advanced, incurable illnesses. By administering the right medications for comfort and offering a touch of compassion, palliative care enables patients to smile, eat, and drink again, ultimately allowing them to experience a dignified and compassionate death”.\nWhen people ask why I chose to work with individuals with terminal illnesses, or like I mentioned in my bio stating my interest to work with individuals with Parkinson\u0026rsquo;s disease or multiple sclerosis, I always give the same answer. In situations where life seems devoid of hope or where pain seems insurmountable, I want to be part of a team that offers a semblance of hope and alleviates pain. My goal is to provide comfort and see smiles on patients\u0026rsquo; faces, and to ensure they have a dignified and compassionate death. For conditions like Parkinson\u0026rsquo;s and multiple sclerosis, which are chronic and degenerative, I aim to offer comfort and hope, focusing on rehabilitation to help patients achieve the best possible quality of life, a near-to-normal life experience. No one should be neglected simply because their condition is chronic or seems hopeless. I want to be that person who provides comfort care and dignified healthcare during their most challenging times.\nImpact of the Book Through stories of love, faith, hope, and grief, set against the backdrop of illness, Dr Rajagopal shares insights from his own life through a compilation of his experiences with people suffering from life-limiting illnesses, which is a great source of lessons on living and dying well. This book is a must-read for anyone in healthcare, offering a perspective that could change your approach to patient care. Many chapters moved me to tears, making me feel as though I was standing beside Dr Rajagopal and his palliative care team, reliving his experiences and understanding their pain. I have gained valuable insights from this book.\nCurrent State of Palliative Care in India In India, pain and palliative care still face significant challenges. A recent study by Dr Sharma, published in the New India Express on June 30, reveals that 98 out of every 100 patients with stage-4 cancer do not receive palliative care, despite the national program launched in 2012. Kerala is currently the only state with a successfully implemented palliative care program, covering care from primary to tertiary health facilities. Dr Sharma\u0026rsquo;s study also emphasizes that a peaceful and dignified life and death is a fundamental right, and it is the government\u0026rsquo;s duty to ensure no one suffers needlessly at any stage of life, including at the end.\nGratitude and Closing Thoughts Dr Rajagopal\u0026rsquo;s book also fuels my long-term goal of expanding palliative care, especially in Tamil Nadu. His journey in establishing the Pain and Palliative Care Society is deeply inspiring. I hope to contribute to this cause in the future with more learning and experiences that comes along my path and with the community support and by assembling the best possible resources and team in the future who will share my vision.\nThank you, Dr Rajagopal, for your motivating and reassuring words that day, which helped me regain confidence and remain in the field and helped me to work on myself with my burnout being a fresher into the field. I also appreciate you sharing your extensive experience through this book, which will undoubtedly help many people understand the significance of pain and palliative care and the support we can offer.\n","date":"2024-08-07T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/walk-with-weary.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/book-review-walk-with-the-weary-life-changing-lessons-in-healthcare-by-dr-m.-r.-rajagopal/","title":"Book Review: Walk with the Weary: Life-Changing Lessons in Healthcare by Dr M. R. Rajagopal"},{"content":"Hi there!\nIt’s a very late post. However, this is going to be a heartfelt post, so please read it carefully, okay? It’s heartwarming for me, so pretty please (imagine my puppy eyes popping).\nI traveled back and forth to Bangalore in the first week of March, which left me physically drained due to the travel and motion sickness. However, I managed to finish reading \u0026ldquo;Anilaadum Mundril\u0026rdquo; by Na. Muthukumar on my Kindle. Wow! It’s a beautiful portrayal of various relationships. While I couldn’t relate to it completely, the book made me appreciate all the wonderful akka, thangachi, thambi, marumagan/magal, pangali, athai, and maama relationships I\u0026rsquo;ve gained outside of my biological family.\nAside from my immediate family, which includes my parents, siblings, and my little cousin who is like a brother to me, I don’t have many strong relationships with the extended family that the universe created for me. My maternal grandfather, whom we all adored and from whom I might have inherited my writing skills, passed away when we were young, so we don’t have many fond memories of him.\nIn \u0026ldquo;Anilaadum Mundril,\u0026rdquo; each chapter about different relationships might bring tears to readers who can relate, but it\u0026rsquo;s the final chapter that will move anyone to tears. Despite discussing every relationship in depth, the author’s most important advice to his son is to stay close to relatives but also maintain some distance. He emphasizes that among all relationships, the greatest is friendship. \u0026ldquo;Make friends, and your life will become straight,\u0026rdquo; he advises. This is true, apart from your own family, good friends are often the ones who will be there for you in critical moments, so choose wisely. I’ve always believed that the relationships we build outside our family can become the true family that supports us through various phases of life.\nHere’s to those akka, thangachi, annan, thambi, and pangali relationships I\u0026rsquo;ve earned in my life. Let me share short stories to describe each of these relationships randomly.\nI\u0026rsquo;ll begin with my very own family. As I mentioned, I’ve been traveling back and forth between Bangalore and Chennai this week. During that travel, I had an excruciating headache, and body ache and the painkiller didn’t help. To make matters worse, I’ve been experiencing random shivers at midnight for past few months, where I start murmuring until my mom hugs me to calm down as she lies next to me. You know, I fight with my family a lot, as we all do due to the differences of opinions and the misunderstandings. Everyone has disputes and resents each other at times because we’re not perfect and can’t always understand each other psychologically. During every fight, I yell at my family members and declare that I can manage alone, that I’m a 24-year-old adult who can handle herself. But guess what? I needed someone during that night of that travel. I almost startled the person sleeping opposite me with my shivering and yelling, lol. I cried myself to sleep in pain, but I wanted my someone to hold me, even though I claimed to be a grown 24-year-old woman.\nWe can be independent and empowered and still need someone; that’s why the universe made humankind capable of love. It’s completely okay to need someone no matter how much you grow. I love you, Mom, for hugging me through my nightmares, sickness, and breakdowns. I love you for fighting with me because distance brings us closer together.\nLet’s talk about the love-hate relationship, yes, the sibling bond. For the first time in my life, I stopped talking to my brother for a week. It was an important fight for me, but eventually, we made up. I still resent him for that day, and I made sure to tell him to his face. But, I am also incredibly grateful for the bond we share. For instance, he gave me his MacBook for my love of writing and his Kindle for my love of reading. He might even get me an iPhone just because he cares about his youngest sibling (lol). Jokes aside, he\u0026rsquo;s the person I can share things with first, knowing I won’t be judged and can make rational decisions. However, past few months have been hard, and everyone’s trying the best they can and at time he still makes me angry, but lol that okay I guess. He’s not only been a brother but also a father figure, providing me with the education I wanted. He’s not lovey-dovey, but he hugged me when I was devastated and let me lie on his lap for the very first time in my entire 24 years of life while he patted me with warmth. That’s the love-hate relationship we have. Love you Navee!\nNow, onto the sister-sister story. One of us is all girly and loves shopping, while the other prefers wearing different types of black clothes ordered online. I can’t count how many times we’ve fought because I didn’t want to go shopping with her. We’re not the type of sisters who share every little secret and hide things from our mom; there wasn’t much to hide anyway. Most of the time, she’s the elder sibling to me, and sometimes, I’ve been the elder sibling to her. We’ve shared our sorrows during rough patches and cried together. We’re both sensitive, which we have in common, and we can fit into each other’s clothes, except for pants, because she’s six feet tall, and I’m the tiny one in the family. We often fall sick together, but she’ll bear the pain and end up pressing my head. She’s always been that kind of sister. You’re bolder than you look, sister! You might not realize it, but you’re the bold one! Love you jen-jen!\nAnd to you, my little nugget cousin. You came into my life unexpectedly, but you’re a gem. You might look rugged, but you have a kind heart and have gone through so much like us. You’re one of a kind. I love you, thambi, with all my heart. Make akka proud and get those Converse or Jordans, okay thambi?\nNow, let me talk about my pangalis—the friends I\u0026rsquo;ve made.\nFirst, my friend turned partner. He’s been my friend for the past nine years and my partner for almost four. Even back then, and now, he’s been the constant in my life, despite knowing all my messy past and the mess that I am. He chose to stay and take it all forever. Thanks, babe. Our love hasn’t changed, and neither have our arguments about the existence of God and churches, lol. He is the ideal partner anyone could ask for. When I didn’t believe in soulmate love and marriage, he made me want to believe. Thank you. He gives me the space to be myself, whether in silence or in arguments. Love you, G!\nNext is my school friend who became closer after we graduated. She’s the kind of friend who prays for you even if you’re out of touch. She’s someone you can relate to on everything. She’s a friend and sister you can avoid for months and still pick up right where you left off, without anything changing. I still hate adulthood for keeping us apart, but maybe we should open that cafe library and settle down soon. What do you say, Jim? Love you, bbg!\nThen there’s my entire UG friend gang. I don’t need to name you all; you know who you are. You mean a lot to me. Even though I’m not in touch with all of you, I know if I called in the middle of the night, you’d be there for me without hesitation. You guys are that kind of friends to me. Love you, gal pals!\nAnd then there’s this kid who came into my life when I felt lost. Hey, Rach. This is the friend with whom I’ve faced lesbian allegations. She’s made me do all sorts of naughty stuff in post-grad, and I’m glad she did. I hate that she’s miles away in another country, but I’m immensely happy seeing my baby girl grow. I’m thrilled you found your man! She’s also the one who got me into the habit of taking pictures of my favorite people on every special occasion, no matter what. Sometimes I still hesitate, but then I think, \u0026ldquo;What would Rach do?\u0026rdquo; and go ahead and ask for a picture and enjoy the moment. She is the kind of friend who would send you a care package, even from miles away, as soon as she finds out you’ve lost some weight. She is also a friend and family member who is always ready to give without expecting anything in return. Are you ready to trouble me forever, kid? Love you and miss you, kiddo!\nAnd then there\u0026rsquo;s my school teacher and her kids, who have become like family to me. I make sure to visit them every month since I finished school. I’ve given her such a hard time with my eating habits, haha, and I still do every time I visit. Recently, there was a period when I didn’t text or call her for a while, and she immediately knew something was off. She made sure to check up on me, how many people are fortunate enough to have relationships like that? I feel truly blessed. Thank you for everything, Ma’am!\nNow, let me talk about my current workplace, where I’ve formed wonderful relationships and found a beautiful family. As I have mentioned in many posts, I have amazing colleagues who take care of me like their own, even though I come from a non-medico background. The newly joined batch of physician assistants joined while I was on a month\u0026rsquo;s leave, yet they bonded with me really well. Hearing them call me \u0026ldquo;akka akka\u0026rdquo; all the time fills me with warmth, and some even come to hug me every day. And the children who come for transplants or post-transplant check-ups, calling me \u0026ldquo;atthai\u0026rdquo; or \u0026ldquo;akka\u0026rdquo; with their sweet little voices - it\u0026rsquo;s everything I could ask for!\nAnd well, I also have an incredible mentor, well-wisher and beyond, whom I never fail to mention in all of my gratitude posts. Though I’ve only known her for a year and a half, I can name countless instances where I’ve felt grateful for her support, and those would require a separate post. Thank you, Ma’am, for being the family I didn’t ask for!\nBoth times I traveled to Bangalore during that week, I made sure to have a complete breakfast, a dosa, and coffee, because I knew there wouldn’t be anyone around to ask if I was okay or if I looked dull or sick. Sometimes, I feel annoyed when people constantly ask me to eat or check on how I’m doing. I usually get irritated when people force-feed me, but these past two days made me realize what it would be like if I had to be alone for a lifetime with no one to ask about me. I imagined that scenario, closed my eyes for a second, and felt grateful for all the people who have constantly forced me to eat: my mom, siblings, partner, close friends, colleagues, and mentors from school, college, and work. Thank you, everyone. Please don’t stop checking on me, even if I get mad at you. You are all a family I\u0026rsquo;ve chosen beyond blood relations, and I am grateful for it.\n","date":"2024-06-06T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/aniladum.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/book-review-of-anilaadum-mundril-embracing-family-and-the-family-beyond-blood/","title":"Book Review of Anilaadum Mundril: Embracing Family and the Family Beyond Blood"},{"content":"Spontaneous Outing and Unforgettable Memories It\u0026rsquo;s been ages since I made an effort to go out with a friend. But a few days ago, while casually chatting with a friend from work, we randomly booked tickets for Manjummel Boys. I don\u0026rsquo;t know how I agreed to it, as I have been preferring being indoors. But hey, you\u0026rsquo;re all here for my ‘ADHAIYUM THANDI PUNIDHAM AANADHU’ kind of story of my life, right now!\nSo, this friend from work, I\u0026rsquo;ve known her for a short time. She\u0026rsquo;s like a younger sibling, but our bond has turned us into friends due to the time spent together. I don\u0026rsquo;t regret stepping out after so long because today was truly adventurous! I absolutely loved the movie, but what I cherished even more were the memories it created. You know, I usually don\u0026rsquo;t stop for tea or coffee if there\u0026rsquo;s no place to sit. But my friend insisted we stop at Bilal for the hype of the shop, and I have to say, it was worth it!\nUnexpected Challenges and Acts of Kindness As we were heading back home, I started having menstrual cramps, but we were laughing and chatting, so it didn\u0026rsquo;t bother me much. Suddenly, my bike started shaking, and I thought it was just my old vehicle acting up. Turns out, it was actually punctured in the middle of a main road! Without any hesitation, my friend took charge and started pushing the vehicle.\nLike I always believe in the love and kindness of the universe, thankfully, two kind strangers stopped by and helped us to a nearby puncture shop. Since my bike was shaking too much for me to drive, my friend took the lead once again. She confidently took the bike to the shop, got it fixed, and drove back to pick me up, all without any hesitation. My heart was racing until she returned even though she was closer, but seeing her drive back filled me with happiness and gratitude.\nFriends Who Become Family It may not be a big incident like in the movie, but to me, being an anxious person, and was almost in cramp pains, it was indeed huge. Despite every odds, my friend didn\u0026rsquo;t hesitate to help, even though she had to travel back home alone. Most of the time, apart from your immediate family, it\u0026rsquo;s the friends who become like family that are the best kind of relationships. You never know who will become that kind of person to you. People can always surprise you. I\u0026rsquo;m grateful to have you around, Sorna! Thanks for today! It was truly a good day!\nComing back to the movie, it is sad that this movie was based on a real-life incident. What are your thoughts on the movie, and how do you feel about friends who become like family?\n","date":"2024-03-01T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/manjummel-boys.jpg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/have-you-all-watched-manjummel-boys/","title":"Have you all watched Manjummel Boys?"},{"content":"Reconnecting with Movie Time Well, reflecting on that, I realized it had been a long time since I indulged in some personal movie time at home. Despite having intended to watch another classic film featuring Robin Williams - \u0026ldquo;Good Will Hunting,\u0026rdquo; I kept putting it off. Finally, I took the time to enjoy the movie today with a big glass of coffee, and it turned out to be a peaceful experience. It seems I was in an ‘okay’ mood today (yay!!), breaking the cycle of staring at walls, lying down, or simply engaging in solitary activities like reading and listening to music in the corner of my room. And you know what? I\u0026rsquo;m feeling a bit ‘wohooo’ and ready to review this movie and hype you all to watch the movie!!!\n\u0026ldquo;Good Will Hunting\u0026rdquo; - A Journey of Self-Discovery So, \u0026ldquo;Good Will Hunting,\u0026rdquo; is a 1997 classic movie, directed by Gus Van Sant. So, this movie is basically about the journey of Will Hunting, a super smart fellow, who\u0026rsquo;s got some serious emotional baggage from his past messing with his head. The movie shows how having a mentor, like Dr. Sean Maguire, and being in touch with your feelings can help you figure yourself out. Through the character of Dr. Sean, it emphasizes the healing power of addressing emotional wounds and the importance of genuine connections. The movie also highlights the social class dynamics, illustrating the challenges faced by those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Ultimately, the movie conveys a message of personal responsibility, friendship, mentorship, and how being true to yourself can change everything.\nMemorable Dialogues and Scenes Here are a few of my favorite dialogues from my favorite scenes;\n\u0026ldquo;Some people can\u0026rsquo;t believe in themselves until someone else believes in them first.\u0026rdquo; Dr. Sean drops this line, talking about how if you have someone who believes in you, it can transform your life. That\u0026rsquo;s the vibe of this movie. Dr. Sean is the ultimate mentor, turning Will\u0026rsquo;s life upside down (in a good way). It\u0026rsquo;s like a crash course in how having a mentor can give your self-esteem and confidence a serious boost. The dialogue is a nod to how external encouragement can be a game-changer in helping people discover their true potential.\n\u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s not your fault.\u0026rdquo; Again from Dr. Sean during the last therapy session with Will. He repeats this phrase, breaking down Will\u0026rsquo;s emotional walls and hitting the emotions of the audience. It brought tears to my eyes. The power of the line is that it hits right at Will\u0026rsquo;s deep issues, letting out all the stuff he\u0026rsquo;s been keeping inside. It shows how powerful empathy and understanding can be in therapy, and well, that’s how real therapy should be!\nFinal Thoughts and Invitation to Share Well, what are you waiting for? If you\u0026rsquo;re reading this, yes, you! Go watch it! And if you\u0026rsquo;ve already seen it, you, my friend, do share your thoughts on how you liked the movie!\n","date":"2024-03-01T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/gwh-4.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/movie-reflections-rediscovering-good-will-hunting/","title":"Movie Reflections: Rediscovering 'Good Will Hunting'"},{"content":"I\u0026rsquo;ve been immersed in non-fiction for quite a while now. However, I felt like changing things up and delving into some light and fun fiction reads for a change. Don\u0026rsquo;t get me wrong, non-fiction still holds a special place in my heart. But there\u0026rsquo;s something enjoyable about dreaming and fantasizing with fiction, isn’t it? So, I decided to switch things up and even changed the language for my last read, haha.\nTamil Literature Rediscovered While I\u0026rsquo;ve read \u0026ldquo;Poonachi\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;Goat Thief\u0026rdquo; by Perumal Murugan in English, I haven\u0026rsquo;t thought about reading Tamil books. \u0026ldquo;Yanai Doctor\u0026rdquo; by Mr. Jayamohan is the only Tamil book I\u0026rsquo;ve read so far, and I would suggest it to anyone without hesitation. Just thinking about the book brings tears to my eyes. It is such a beautiful book indeed! Ironically, I haven\u0026rsquo;t shown much interest in reading Tamil books, considering my writing journey began with Tamil poetry and publishing small pieces in Tamil journals (I\u0026rsquo;m happy to share my Tamil works if any of you want to see them, although I consider myself an amateur).\n\u0026ldquo;Kidai\u0026rdquo; by K. Rajanarayanan: A Dive into Rural Tamil Nadu I indulged in another short yet beautiful Tamil novel by Mr. K Rajanarayanan today over a cup of coffee in my portico. The beauty of Tamil novels lies in the meticulous descriptions of characters, from their physical attributes to their personalities. The language used in these novels reflects a particular slang that immerses you in that era. While this immersive experience can also be found in English fiction, as a native Tamil speaker, I find a deeper connection to the Tamil language. I didn\u0026rsquo;t realize how much I had missed reading and writing in Tamil.\n\u0026ldquo;Kidai\u0026rdquo; by Mr. K. Rajanarayanan is a wonderful book that captures the essence of rural Tamil Nadu through a simple yet profound story about Goats and the lives of Herdsmen. The story seems about goats, but it\u0026rsquo;s much more than that. It looks into the complexities of human relationships, highlighting how the same incident can impact individuals differently based on their gender, caste, and financial status. The book paints a vivid picture of a world with its own rules and beliefs.\nLike I said, \u0026ldquo;Kidai\u0026rdquo; is not just about goats; it\u0026rsquo;s about life. The author through the book explores themes like love, loss, and ignorance, and also offers a deep look into the human experience in just less than 100 pages.\nIf you are interested in Tamil literature, with a meaningful story and looking for a light read, I would definitely suggest \u0026ldquo;Kidai\u0026rdquo; by Mr K. Rajanarayanan.\nAlso, I\u0026rsquo;m open to suggestions for my next Tamil novel to read. Any recommendations?\n","date":"2024-02-29T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/kidai.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/exploring-tamil-literature-a-dive-into-kidai/","title":"Exploring Tamil Literature: A Dive into 'Kidai'"},{"content":"Exploration through Learning: Discoveries on OpenWHO During a recent browse on LinkedIn, I discovered that the World Health Organization offers various courses through the OpenWHO platform. There was a wide array of public health topics, and I was intrigued by a few, and I\u0026rsquo;m pleased to share that I\u0026rsquo;ve completed the course titled \u0026ldquo;#PalliativeCare: Models of service delivery and symptom management.\u0026rdquo; Interestingly, I heard a physician refer to it as \u0026ldquo;comfort care\u0026rdquo; instead of palliative care, and I found that perspective quite appealing. The term \u0026ldquo;palliation\u0026rdquo; can evoke feelings of sadness \u0026amp; pain, whereas the notion of providing comfort carries a more positive and soothing connotation.\nNavigating Career Paths and Evolving Interests I initially pursued journalism fueled by my passion for writing and a thirst to gain knowledge on current affairs. Volunteering with children during my course made me pursue a master\u0026rsquo;s in social work. I developed an interest in healthcare - in medical and psychiatry, specifically working with children with special needs. Despite completing a certification in working with children with special needs, I didn\u0026rsquo;t pursue it further. I still, at times think of exploring this area once again. In my first job in CSR-related for individuals with disability, I felt disconnected due to limited people connection, prompting my resignation. Now, I work in the field of terminal illnesses and play a role as a transplant coordinator (Bone Marrow Transplant). While the responsibilities are minimal, the experience intrigued me in transplant coordination. This curiosity led me to pursue a course on transplant coordination, not necessarily as a career move, but out of a genuine interest in understanding organ transplants and my potential role in such a scenario. Simultaneously, I\u0026rsquo;m pursuing a PG diploma in #PublicHealth Journalism, which caught my interest in epidemiology \u0026amp; research, though struggling with basic anatomy. Haha!\nEmbracing the Journey of Exploration Currently working in an environment where palliative care is a common term, I find it intriguing. It provides a sense of purpose, knowing that you can offer comfort to individuals with terminal illnesses until their end-of-care.\nWell, I started typing it short this time, but as usual, ended up rambling my whole story. Haha! But hey, who knows? If an idea for a book strikes, I might just quit everything and escape to the hills with my laptop, notebook, and pen. It\u0026rsquo;s okay to explore; not having a niche doesn\u0026rsquo;t mean a lack of passion. Keep learning, keep honing your skills, and never cease to acquire knowledge. Don\u0026rsquo;t confine yourself to just one area; explore different areas. That\u0026rsquo;s a recent lesson I\u0026rsquo;ve learned, and have shared it with y’all!\nHappy February!\n","date":"2024-02-14T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/certificate.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/embracing-exploration-and-learning-a-personal-journey/","title":"Embracing Exploration and Learning: A Personal Journey"},{"content":"Navigating Emotional Weight and Anxieties The fear of disappointing or falling short can sometimes make me spiral, affecting not only my actions but also my overall happiness. It\u0026rsquo;s an emotional weight that I carry, and this book offered a different perspective. While I may not be able to follow them right away, I hope these philosophies will come in handy at some point in the future.\nKey Insights from the Book Let me share a few elements from the book;\n\u0026ldquo;A healthy feeling of inferiority is not something that comes from comparing oneself to others; it comes from one’s comparison with one’s ideal self\u0026rdquo;. Personally, I don\u0026rsquo;t compare myself to others and say, \u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m not as good as that person,\u0026rdquo; but rather think, \u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m not yet the person I want to be.\u0026rdquo; It\u0026rsquo;s like having a goal or an ideal in my mind and feeling a bit of a push to become a better version of myself. This way, I\u0026rsquo;m not just motivated to grow and improve based on my own standards, but also feel a bit of pressure and focus on my personal journey to become the best version of ‘myself’. If I don\u0026rsquo;t meet the standard I set for myself, that can lead to feeling inferior, and that\u0026rsquo;s what the philosopher is talking about in this quote. However, comparing to one’s ideal self is considered to be a healthy approach.\n\u0026ldquo;The courage to be happy also includes the courage to be disliked.\u0026rdquo; This quote is basically the crux of the book. Being happy involves not only having the courage to feel good but also being okay with the fact that not everyone will like you. When you embrace this mindset, your connections with others become more natural and carefree, bringing a sense of lightness to your relationships. It\u0026rsquo;s about finding happiness in being true to who you are, even if it means not everyone will be a fan.\n“If one really has a feeling of contribution, one will no longer have any need for recognition from others.\u0026quot; This quote really resonated with me because sometimes I feel disappointed not because people don\u0026rsquo;t recognize my work, but because I don\u0026rsquo;t feel a sense of purpose. The key is finding happiness in the act, rather than wanting everyone to notice and applaud you. For me, it\u0026rsquo;s a reminder that my peace of mind comes from having a sense of purpose, not just getting approval from others. So, I agree with this idea and realize I need to focus on finding that sense of purpose to truly be at peace.\nEncouragement to Explore Further I have more to share, but I\u0026rsquo;ll pause here and encourage you to read the book. Not all ideas may align with everyone\u0026rsquo;s views, but I suggest giving it a read. Take what you find valuable to cultivate a mindset focused on your personal growth and happiness.\n","date":"2024-02-01T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/courage.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/embracing-discomfort-and-finding-happiness-lessons-from-the-courage-to-be-disliked/","title":"Embracing Discomfort and Finding Happiness: Lessons from 'The Courage to Be Disliked'"},{"content":"Gratitude and Acknowledgment Let me begin by expressing gratitude for the person I have evolved into through this job experience.\nI’m thankful for the guidance I’ve received every single day throughout this one-year journey, which keeps me motivated to improve. Whether it’s about my personal growth, professional development, or the life lessons I’ve learned, I attribute it to my mentor at the one-year mark. While the changes may not be visibly apparent, if I haven’t given up in life or at work, it’s because of this person. I’ve been inspired by their work, their knowledge, and their passion, pushing me to excel in my own field. Dr. Aruna has been a source of numerous personal and professional insights during this mentorship, and I owe this one-year journey to her. Thank you, Dr. Aruna.\nAdmiration for another person, whose vision through Cankids granted me the chance to work at the BMT unit of RGGGH. Although not directly mentored by her, her passion and energy fuel the work I do. Thanks to social media, I could witness her passion virtually and stay connected. Thank you, Ms Poonam Bagai.\nProfessional Growth and Personal Insights Empathy \u0026amp; Resilience: This job has profoundly influenced my personal and professional development. Witnessing patients grappling with health issues deepened my empathy, emphasizing the importance of resilience in adversity. The hospital setting has been a significant part of my journey. In recent months, the passing of two patients affected me more than expected, perhaps because I had known them since joining this job. However, what stands out in my thoughts about them is their remarkable resilience and the smiles they maintained until our last encounter. Everyday life in this sector imparts crucial life lessons to me, and I emphasize the importance of taking things one step at a time amidst the overwhelming nature of it all.\nBetter Communication: While my communication skills are generally adequate, my decline in confidence posed a challenge. Despite my initial hesitations from the first day of this job, to now, engaging with diverse stakeholders and interacting with government officials even for a short conversation, have gradually boosted my confidence. Though still hesitation persists, the numerous opportunities to interact with different stakeholders have played a pivotal role in enhancing both my communication abilities and assertiveness. I’ve found myself standing up for my opinions, even in discussions with my superiors. This, I believe, is an integral part of the learning experience that came with my role.\nTeamwork: In my work, I collaborate with medical professionals, NGOs, donors, and support staff. This teamwork highlights how important it is to work together, creating a feeling of togetherness and a common goal. As someone without a medical background working in a hospital setting, I initially had concerns. However, my colleagues in the unit have been supportive. They respect me for who I am and for the work I do, treating me with care as if I’m one of their own.\nAdaptability: Continuous learning in the ever-changing medical field has become a way of thinking that helps me grow personally. My nature of work thus far has involved a new opportunity and a new scope of work every day. Though I have a set of roles and responsibilities as I have mentioned in the post, every day seems to be a new day with new learning and opportunity. Though the uncertainty has created anxiety at times, I guess I am kind of starting to embrace it.\nCelebrating Small Joys Along the Way On a random note,\nI wanted to share a delightful experience that brought a smile to my face recently. I, sometimes use the elevator from the parking area to reach the fourth floor of my unit. Over the past year, I’ve become familiar with the two lift operators\nRecently, one of the operators, upon seeing me, enthusiastically shouted, “Fourth floor, right?” with a self-assured smile. Lol, he remembered me, even through changes in my haircut. The other day, another operator struck up a conversation about my department, and as I exited for the day, he also inquired if my duty for the day was complete.\nThese small, yet consistent interactions have not only brightened my commute but also served as a reminder of the milestone I’ve reached – completing a full year despite the challenges and temptations to quit. It’s these genuine gestures from the lift operators that added an extra touch of joy to my journey.\nAnd well,\nWhile I still remain uncertain about the specific niche of my career, I would like to take a moment and be content with being able to play a small role in contributing to the greater good. Excited for what the future holds!\n","date":"2024-01-12T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/reflection.jpg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/reflecting-on-a-year-of-professional-growth-and-resilience/","title":"Reflecting on a Year of Professional Growth and Resilience"},{"content":"I felt like not writing about them was creating a false history, and honestly, when I first wrote about them I expected I\u0026rsquo;d lose readers. I expected that I\u0026rsquo;d scare people. I expected silence. I did not expect what I was given. What I got back in return for being honest about my struggle was an enormous wave of voices saying, \u0026ldquo;You aren\u0026rsquo;t alone,\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;We suspected you were crazy anyway. We\u0026rsquo;re still here.\u0026rdquo; \u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m proud of you.\u0026rdquo; And louder than all of that were the whispers that became stronger every day from thousands and thousands of people creeping to the edge and quietly admitting, \u0026ldquo;Me too. I thought it was just me.\u0026rdquo; I did not ride that wave alone. That\u0026rsquo;s why I continue to talk about mental illness, even at the cost of scaring people off or having people judge me. I try to be honest about the shame I feel because with honesty comes empowerment. And also, understanding, I know that if I go out on a stage and have a panic attack, I can duck behind the podium and hide for a minute and no one is going to judge me. They already know I am crazy.\nThe book is full of moments that made me nod in understanding, like when she mentions feeling like a failure, even on good days. She talks about the impostor syndrome, and how even compliments can feel like lies. And it\u0026rsquo;s something I was able to relate to and many of us can relate to it as well.\nIn the book, Jenny talks about how she used to be scared of the term \u0026ldquo;mentally ill,\u0026rdquo;. She makes it clear that there\u0026rsquo;s a big difference between being a little \u0026lsquo;off\u0026rsquo; and being truly mentally ill. And she\u0026rsquo;s all too aware of her own quirks, from hiding under tables to telling her anxiety to chill when it\u0026rsquo;s acting up. Jenny also talks about medications. She explores how they can be both a blessing and a curse, like a pinch of salt for your life. They can make you feel better, but they can also mess with your head and body. And she\u0026rsquo;s real about it, no sugarcoating, which is again very much relatable.\nJenny openly shares that she only feels successful a few days a month. The rest of the time, she\u0026rsquo;s caught in a storm of self-doubt and anxiety. Like Jenny, I am on a quest for answers, trying to figure out if this is just me or if others feel the same way. It\u0026rsquo;s a journey many of us are on, trying to understand what it means to be \u0026lsquo;successful\u0026rsquo; and how to quiet those negative voices in our heads.\nSo, if you\u0026rsquo;re looking for a brutally honest, funny, and relatable take on mental illness and mental health, give \u0026ldquo;Furiously Happy\u0026rdquo; a read. You\u0026rsquo;ll laugh, you\u0026rsquo;ll cry, and you will find a new mantra for life: \u0026ldquo;Pretend you\u0026rsquo;re good at it.\u0026rdquo;\nNote: I am also sharing some pictures of words from the book that resonated with me and were highly relatable to me. ","date":"2024-01-10T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/fh-cover.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/furiously-happy-words-from-jenny-lawson-that-touched-me/","title":"Furiously Happy - Words from Jenny Lawson that touched me"},{"content":"Meeting Inspirational Figures I was delighted to meet Ms. Poonam Bagai, the founder of my organization, CanKids KidsCan. Her knowledge and dedication to her passion left a lasting impression on me. Her speeches throughout each session reflected her unwavering commitment and advocacy skills, and I feel fortunate to have got the opportunity to learn from the best.\nAdditionally, witnessing sessions by other impactful speakers from our organization was a highlight. Meeting everyone in person and having the opportunity to communicate was truly fulfilling. Sumita Kirti Nirbhay Singh Vishwajit Mitra Haresh Gupta\nDay 1 Session Highlights Now, let me quickly provide a brief overview of the Day 1 session and share what specifically caught my interest. The sessions were enlightening, featuring discussions that ranged from the often-overlooked challenges faced by caregivers to the strategic nuances of building a robust CSR network.\nCaregivers\u0026rsquo; Challenges and Advocacy The caregiver session, in particular, underscored the sacrifices made by families and emphasized the imperative to address the psychological aspects of caregiving. Advocacy, counseling, and awareness emerged as pivotal elements in enhancing caregivers\u0026rsquo; abilities to navigate challenging situations effectively.\nBuilding a Robust CSR Network The CSR network building session provided a strategic blueprint, emphasizing the importance of branding, networking, and perseverance in the pursuit of support. The speaker\u0026rsquo;s encouragement to confidently seek assistance and the emphasis on media\u0026rsquo;s role in amplifying awareness resonated deeply.\nThe Power of Storytelling in Fundraising In another compelling session, the power of storytelling in fundraising took center stage. Crafting narratives that resonate with donors, understanding potential mismatches, and maintaining consistent communication were emphasized as critical components in sustaining donor relationships, a lesson I plan to integrate into my engagements with CSR initiatives.\nApplication of Insights Currently, as I embark on the journey of building networks and engaging with corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives at the hospital where I work, the insights gained from PHOSSCON 2023 are proving immensely beneficial. The event provided a comprehensive exploration of childhood cancer care, covering supportive and shared care, fundraising strategies, and perspectives from various NGOs.\nConclusion Grateful for this transformative experience, I look forward to applying these learnings in my endeavors, contributing to the advancement of childhood cancer awareness, and children\u0026rsquo;s health care and support in general.\n","date":"2023-11-25T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/phosscon-cover.jpeg","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/phosscon-2023-a-transformative-experience/","title":"PHOSSCON 2023: A Transformative Experience"},{"content":"Well, yesterday was my 24th birthday, and it was a day filled with mixed emotions. I’m not someone who enjoys celebrating birthdays, and turning 20 has already started to make me feel anxious about growing old and being stagnant. Even six months ago, I would mistakenly tell people that I was 24 when asked my age because I was preoccupied with the idea of nearing that age.\nInitially, I had planned to take the entire day off and spend it alone to avoid feeling negatively overwhelmed. But then, being unoccupied is also overwhelming for me. So, I decided to go to work, thinking that no one there knew it was my birthday. However, to my surprise, my colleagues found out and surprised me with a birthday cake, even though I didn’t really want to celebrate. It was a thoughtful gesture, and I appreciated their kindness, after all I embrace joy of ‘little things’. But it did make me feel even more overwhelmed. Unable to handle the emotions at work, I requested an hour off and headed to my go-to place, the writer’s cafe. There, I could sit in silence, listen to music, and read my book. I spent nearly four hours at the cafe and finished the book – ‘As a Man Thinketh’ by James Allen that I had brought with me. Usually, I carry at least two books, but for some reason, I didn’t have an extra one yesterday. Nonetheless, I decided to treat myself on my so-called birthday and bought two new books – “Who Moved My Cheese” and “The Present” by Dr Spencer Johnson at the writer’s cafe.\nI took the time to read another book, which is “Who Moved My Cheese?” At this point, I’m not planning to provide detailed reviews of these two books that I read yesterday. However, I’ve been delving into a lot of self-help literature lately, although I’m not entirely sure if it’s immediately benefiting me. Nevertheless, these books have been prompting me to ponder certain things, and I read them in the hope that they will prove valuable in the future. Of the two books I’ve mentioned, “Who Moved My Cheese?” appealed to me more than “As a Man Thinketh.” “Who Moved My Cheese?” is a metaphorical book that encourages us to place ourselves in different situations and contemplate them. Reading it was a unique experience, and I would recommend both of these books as they are both worth a read.\nThe staff at the Egmore Writer’s Cafe has gotten to know me at this point, and they allow me to have my space. Sometimes, I even find myself tearing up, and they don’t interfere, but they do check in to see if I need anything. Whether it’s part of their routine or genuine concern, I appreciate the space they give me during these moments. It was my own way of marking my 24th birthday – with a simple cup of Indian filter coffee and some time alone at the writer’s cafe with my books and comfort songs!\nI’m not entirely sure where this post is leading, but I want to share my thoughts, especially in light of World Mental Health Day today. Yesterday was a challenging day for me, filled with mixed emotions, and I needed some alone time to cope. After almost four hours of spending my time at Writer’s Cafe, with the intention to not worry my mom further, I left from writer’s cafe around 8 p.m. However, the day didn’t end well as I had a meltdown later in the evening. My so-called family support system attempted to to regulate my emotions by suggesting I work on a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle with them. Haha.\nRegarding the importance of today, it’s World Mental Health Day, and I feel compelled to continue discussing my recent emotions. Lately, I haven’t been doing well, but I wake up each day and put in consistent effort to improve my mental health. Work used to be my main distraction, not just a distraction but because I loved my work and workspace. But even there, I find it increasingly difficult to manage myself and be productive in recent times. Unfortunately, in 2023, it’s still challenging to get leave from work for mental health reasons. I often have to invent other reasons to take time off. It’s a sad reality, but as long as I can take breaks to preserve my sanity, I consider it a win. This year’s World Mental Health Day focuses on the theme ‘ “Our minds, our rights” highlighting that “Mental health is a universal human right.” It’s an opportunity for communities to come together to raise awareness and take action to promote and protect mental health as a universal human right.\nI’m the kind of person who struggles to seek help, not because I don’t believe in seeking help, but because it’s hard to trust the process and the person providing help. I don’t know if the breaks and efforts I’m making will ultimately help me, but I’m trying to find what works for me. What works for you might not work for me, but I guess that’s okay. Right now, I blame myself for feeling this way and for hurting those who care about me. I don’t want pity or to burden others with worry. People often tell me I’m a strong and bold person, so they wonder why I can’t overcome this. However, I firmly believe that my current struggles with my thoughts and emotions are not related to my strength or boldness. I am still the same independent person who can manage things on her own. However, some things are beyond our control, and for me, that includes the way I feel. It doesn’t make me any less strong.\nI really don’t want to blame myself for what I’m going through. I’m already struggling, and this self-blame only makes things worse. I understand that everyone deals with their own mental health issues in one way or another. Just because someone else seems to handle it well doesn’t mean I’m not trying my best or that I’m exaggerating my struggles. I keep reminding myself of this, but it’s still so difficult not to blame myself.\nOn this Mental Health Day, I want to share something important based on my experiences this year. It’s perfectly okay to feel the way you do. It’s okay if you can’t manage yourself the same way others seem to. It’s okay if meditation, yoga, or other strategies that work for some don’t work for you. It doesn’t make you weak; it makes you uniquely yourself. Don’t stop seeking help or sharing your feelings just because you fear blame or because things haven’t worked out as you hoped. There was a point where I stopped seeking help, and my situation only deteriorated. I’m making an effort, and that’s what matters most. Even if I continue to feel this way, I’ll figure out what to do next, whether I need additional help or not.\nFrom my own experiences, I want to emphasize that it’s crucial not to blame yourself when you’re already dealing with so much. Try talking to people who won’t make you feel judged or blamed. Right now, I feel okay opening up to my psychologist and 3-4 individuals who don’t judge me. Overcoming the self-blame feeling isn’t easy, I know, because even as I write this, I still feel like I’m the problem. But it’s okay; keep trying and believe in your support system. Try to have faith and trust in at least a few people so that you don’t completely drown yourself.\nIn conclusion, my 24th birthday and World Mental Health Day 2023 were a unique blend of emotions and reflections, prompting me to embrace vulnerability and share my recent journey. Here are some key takeaways from my journey:\nUnderstand that it’s perfectly okay to feel the way you do, and you don’t need to compare your struggles to others. You don’t always have to have an explanation for the way you feel. Don’t compare your mental health journey to others; yes, everyone has their unique struggles and coping mechanisms, but it is okay if what worked for them does not work for you. It does not mean you are not trying enough, or it does not make you weak Self-blame can only make your situation worse, so try to be compassionate and understanding toward yourself. Avoid self-blame and remember that some things are beyond your control, and feeling a certain way doesn’t make you any less strong. Even if you feel like you’re the problem, keep trying and believe in your support system. Trust in at least a few people who won’t judge you, and remember that you don’t have to go through it all alone. Don’t stop seeking help or sharing your feelings due to fear of blame or past setbacks. Embrace your vulnerability and acknowledge your mixed emotions, even if you do feel low for no reason on special occasions like birthdays or if you are not able to celebrate your victories or any milestones. It is okay to have alone time when needed to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Don’t hesitate to take breaks or seek help for mental health reasons, even if it means faking your reasons to get that break. It’s okay if traditional strategies like meditation or yoga don’t work for you; find what suits you best. Effort matters the most, and even if you continue to face challenges, keep trying and seeking support. In summary, my journey has taught me to be kinder to myself, acknowledge my vulnerability, and continue seeking help and support, regardless of any setbacks. To put it simply, I don’t write about my journey in a diary or blog to seek pity, instead, I do it with the aim to keep me sane and motivated. Mental health is indeed a universal human right, and by sharing my experiences, I hope to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding mental health awareness and the destigmatization of seeking help when needed.\n","date":"2023-10-10T00:00:00Z","image":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/cover.webp","permalink":"https://writingsof.prathipa.in/p/embracing-vulnerability-a-reflection-on-my-24th-birthday-and-world-mental-health-day-2023/","title":"Embracing Vulnerability: A Reflection on My 24th Birthday and World Mental Health Day 2023"}]