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In praise of

Now Living the Dream

A tale of surviving cancer

“This book has been written by Daksha at a pivotal time in her life, a diagnosis of oesophageal cancer and a recovery journey that is both moving and one that other cancer patients can relate to. Daksha provides the narrative, the story, that is often unseen or not voiced in the cancer literature. She describes in depth the impact of diagnosis, treatment and her approach to recovery in a way that someone who is also on that journey, like me, can feel. The thoughts and feelings that it invokes – fear of death, of pain and the effects of treatment, anger, why me, but also the vital comfort, compassion and support of others and the profound importance of love and faith in the survival journey. Recovery becomes the here and now of being alive, celebrating life, the dream that as a cancer patient we long to realise and share with those we love. As a nurse as well as a patient, I have experienced cancer from both sides now and I truly believe that health care professionals would find this book uplifting and helpful in their day to day work with all cancer patients, regardless of age or diagnosis. The insights are a remarkable testimony to Daksha’s own survival and provide hope and belief for those of us who are still on our own journey.”

- Professor Sally Kendall, MBE, PhD, RN, RHV, FQNI, MFPH Recovering from breast cancer.

“Receiving a major medical diagnosis is a significant life-turning event for all of us, a crucial time of decision making, particularly as to what mental and spiritual course we will pursue going forward. Many cancer survivors say that their diagnosis was ultimately one of the most positive experiences in their lives because it served as the impetus for them to reshape their way of being in the world. In this inspiring story, Dr Daksha Trivedi shares with us just that decision in her own life, to activate and deeply embrace her inner spiritual essence and the healing power of her mind. With these resources as her foundation, she pursued a combination of conventional and holistic approaches to reclaim her health and to foster a life of greater wellbeing. Dr Trivedi now spreads this guiding message of hope, empowerment, and transformation to others.”

- Paul J. Mills, PhD; Professor and Chief at the University of California San Diego’s (UCSD) Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Director of the UCSD Center of Excellence for Research and Training in Integrative Health, Director of the UCSD Clinical Research Biomarker Laboratory, Director of research for the Deepak Chopra Foundation.

“Dr. Trivedi was given the shocking diagnosis of aggressive oesophageal cancer. We experience the monumental challenges of an awful diagnosis, the gut-wrenching treatment and long recovery through her eyes. She poignantly relays her journey with a no-holds-bar honesty and vulnerability that leaves you speechless. Daksha audaciously shares her innermost thoughts, insecurities and fears and channels these to cultivate wisdom, compassion and courage with surprising serenity. When the life she knew comes to a halt and her reality suspended - she embraces the emptiness and openness imputed of meaning and lives for the NOW. Her disease serves as a catalyst for her spiritual metamorphosis, a seed for her awakening.”

- Falguni Bhatt, Social care, policy and planning, University of Columbia, Masters in Social Work, Maharaja Sayajirao University, India. Licensed Certified Social Worker, Counsellor and Psychotherapist, University of State of New York; Reiki Practitioner

“A remarkable, deeply moving and inspiring account of Dr Trivedi’s cancer journey. When faced with a life- threatening diagnosis, Daksha found the strength to rise above the shock, fear and uncertainty, which always accompanies a serious cancer diagnosis. She eloquently details her story from diagnosis, through surgery and its unpleasant aftereffects, to rebuilding her life with renewed vigour. Lovingly supported by her husband and mum - this is an inspirational book which will resonate with every cancer patient. Together Against Cancer supports people at any stage of cancer journey, ‘Now Living the Dream’ will definitely be in our library.”

- Stephen Gamble, Education and Wellness Manager, Together Against Cancer, UK; Naturopathic nutritionist PDNN; Gerson Therapy Practitioner (Gerson Institute, UK)

“In “Now Living the Dream” Dr Trivedi has provided us with a riveting account of her physical cancer journey. We follow her progress, and those of her estimable husband and mother, through an emotional roller-coaster of clinical appointments and procedures. However, into this narrative she has woven most moving insights into her spiritual journey, informed as it is by her own cultural and spiritual background. This well-written and highly accessible book is an indispensable read for anyone (or their friends and relatives) who is on their own cancer journey and is above all a great testimony to the power of faith. She truly is a remarkable lady!”

- Eddie Thompson, BA LLB; Retired paralegal and teacher; Fellow Oesophageal cancer patient

“From a world of academia, Daksha was plunged into a tumultuous cancer journey two years ago. I have known her since childhood in Kenya, always eager, self-motivated and determined, excelling in everything she did. I am therefore not surprised that she became a brave warrior against the barrage of challenges including a totally life changing surgical intervention. In her book, the author eloquently depicts her strength, self- belief, love for life, deep faith, and unconditional love and support from her husband and her dear mother.

As a general practitioner, I find that Daksha’s convincing experience supports the notion that those who believe in the body’s innate ability to heal can often have a better outcome. She blends science, medicine and spirituality and offers practical strategies that helped her. I encourage everyone to read this powerfully inspiring book for we never know where our paths will take us. Thank you, Dr Trivedi for sharing your soul stirring journey with us.”

- Dr Rashmi Mehta, MBBS, MRCS, LRCP, special interest in holistic health and functional medicine

“Now Living the Dream” is a classic example of the manifestation of the power of love, the living force within us which heals. It has a purpose, a dream and fulfilment even more so when illnesses are so prevalent, especially at this time of unpredictable effects of the pandemic which the whole world is facing today. Through faith, belief, hope, courage and determination, Daksha has proved that no matter how far your condition has advanced, if you choose or desire to restore your health into wellness, you actually give birth to a new desire and that is when “ the power of wellness emerges”. A must read not only for cancer patients but for every human being who walks on the face of the Earth.”

- Lim Cheng Hoe, Former International Badminton Coach to Sweden, Iceland and Zambia; former representative of the Malaysian Badminton Team; Retired Teacher and Trustee for mainstream Education, UK; Currently an International Reiki Master, Trainer & Tai-Chi Practitioner, UK

“This is a brave book about an inner and outer journey after being diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus. The physical implications of this diagnosis and subsequent surgery and treatment were devastating, but what is so compelling about this testament is the author’s willingness to share how she reflected on and rigorously examined the daily challenges which threatened her existence. Life as experienced before surgery would never be the same again but the new life, which continues to unfold, is one with rich spiritual meaning, tremendous gratitude for each moment and deep compassion for all beings. This book is a great inspiration and encouragement for all who wish to live life fully with joy, healing and appreciation of the present moment.”

- Judith Berry, Retired Primary School Headteacher, T.C. Alexander Teachers’ College Sydney Australia; Member of the Findhorn Foundation Community Scotland; Actively involved in the Care Sector of the Community and Conservation Charities.

“As a Barrister and a Professor of Law, I rarely find myself struggling to find the right words to pen or to say. This, however, is one such occasion. Having known Dr Trivedi not only through her dedicated work in promoting health and wellbeing including the activities of Sathya Sai International Organisation, UK, but also personally, I was somewhat shocked to learn of her ‘health’ condition as conveyed to me by her husband. Based on my spiritual beliefs, I was inspired to pray for her or as one would say send her ‘mantra induced vibrational energy’. What Daksha has accomplished through this book is nothing short of offering solace and hope for the multitude who are in a similar position by recounting her trials and tribulations as well as her experiences. The wonderful and sincere accounts speak volumes of her, and I can only say that even in this state, she is living the expression: ‘Service to Man is Service to God’. I hope that all who read ‘Now Living the Dream’ will learn to empower themselves when faced with dilemmas just as Daksha has conveyed in her courageous journey of survival.”

- Dr Vickneswaren Krishnan, Barrister (Middle Temple) & Visiting Professor of International Law (Botswana), Hindu Chaplain, University of Cambridge

“Dr Daksha Trivedi writes a passionate and meticulous description of her personal journey with cancer. She has captured the role of body, mind, spirit and emotions that play an integral part in recovery and healing. Daksha has acknowledged and honored spirituality, culture, family, friends and health care providers as key elements to her victory over cancer. Her acceptance of the diagnosis, treatment and support helps her to survive cancer and results in “Now Living the Dream”, a great message that inspires us all. “

- Dr Ranee Thayala Richards, MBBS, MPM, FRANZCP; Consultant Psychiatrist, Dandenong Hospital, Monash Health, Victoria, Australia

“As someone who went through the same Oesophageal cancer as Daksha did, albeit eleven years ago, I found this to be an inspirational story. The way that she and her family went through the ordeal supported by each other’s love and unwavering faith will be a source of hope and inspiration to all who read this book.”

- Dave Simpson, former Oesophageal cancer patient

“Sometimes we cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel, this is because there are always twists and turns in life. Daksha’s book teaches us to keep walking and eventually despite the many deviations we must not give up, and we will see the light again. This book will be useful to support people who have cancer and are beginning that journey, down that long tunnel. She covers the shock of diagnosis, the fear, the hope of recovery, the many trials and tribulations, and eventual cure. She clearly describes her journey providing numerous ideas that people will find helpful in overcoming their own anxieties and fears. She provides practical advice and a touching honesty about her own experiences. Reading it was a privilege.

- Professor Mike Kirby, MBBS, LRCP, MRCS, FRCP; Clinician & Academic; Prostate Cancer Charity Research Advisory Group, The Prostate Centre, London. Member of UK Department of Health Prostate Cancer Risk Management Working Party & several National Health Service advisory boards.

“Daksha is an epidemiologist and a scientist; a woman of great faith who is supported by family and friends who share faiths; and someone who is able to tell the story of her journey through oesophageal cancer from beginning to recovery, sparing no detail and with no emotional holds barred. This book is her story interwoven with interesting science and discussions of aspects of faith and emotional support (helping those of ‘no faith’ to appreciate positive mindset and self- empowerment); accompanied by quotations from classical and modern literature and personal photographs; but also containing much practical advice. We all think we know what ‘holistic care’ means, but most do not fully understand what it is unless we have experienced it or read this book.”

- Dr Paul Siklos, MA (Cantab), BSc, MBBS, FRCP; Consultant Physician (retired), West Suffolk Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, UK;Associate Clinical Dean (retired),University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine; Life Fellow, Hughes Hall, Cambridge;Winner of the Pilkington Prize 2005 award in recognition of teaching excellence.

“Dr Daksha Trivedi has written a profoundly inspiring account of her unforeseen but an aggressive cancer diagnosis. She narrates openly her vulnerability laced with deep anxieties, emotions, trials and tribulations in the face of great uncertainty. The disease is one which requires a number of diagnostic modalities, some of them done repeatedly. She went through all of them with grit and determination, factors which greatly help the treating doctors and aid the healing process. Throughout her treatment journey, I monitored her closely and her understanding of the problem, which she was able to face with courage and determination. Her book gifts us with practical ways to overcome adversity and to embrace such a journey with courage and faith. A professional and a patient, Daksha speaks of hope, love and gratitude, reminding us of what really matters in life. She delicately brings together science, medicine and spirituality, understanding the difficulties. Dr Trivedi brings remarkable insight and wisdom which will no doubt touch the hearts of many. It is my wish that every medical professional and every patient going through this journey reads the book and I am sure it will help them greatly surmount the steep challenges. This book deserves a wide circulation for all.”

- Dr K Narasimhan, MBBS, MNAMS (Medicine) Director of Sri Sathya Sai (SSS) Mobile Hospital, Medical Superintendent of SSS General Hospital, Puttaparthi, South India; Winner of the CNBC-TV 18 Healthcare Award, India