Synopsis

If I had a choice, I would choose a world without cancer. But it is not my choice to make, so I would like to do the next best thing...help as many people touched by cancer thrive despite their prognosis. My book, ‘My Cancer Journey - A rendezvous with myself’ is a step forward in this direction.

Most cancer patients and survivors I talk to wish that their cancer had been picked sooner because an early diagnosis would give them the best chance of survival. Awareness about cancer is one of the key things that can make the difference between someone surviving cancer or not. I know that in my case, I went to my doctor as soon as I had found the lump in my breast because I wanted to know what it was. If my diagnosis had been delayed even by about 4 weeks, I would probably not even be here. A timely diagnosis is the reason I have the opportunity to write this blurb today. Also, it is not just about diagnosis, but information on what it means to live with and beyond cancer can be a powerful ally.

Cancer is one of the toughest fights people face in their lifetimes. I want to inspire people touched by cancer through my story. I know that with support, we can take a bit of hardship out of the whole cancer experience. I remember that one of my favourite reads during cancer was a good heart-warming success story of surviving and living beyond cancer.

It is not just what cancer does to the body and the psychological state of a person that is nerve-wrecking. No! The shame, the taboo, the judgement associated with cancer in many parts of the world make the cancer experience harder than it needs to be. When more and more people come out and share their story in the open, cancer would eventually become just another medical condition and not be the pink elephant in the room. My candid story of diagnosis, living with and beyond cancer aims to make this possible.

In this book, I draw upon my experience of going through and surviving cancer, and my work as a personal transformation coach.

My book is not just my story; it is my tool to facilitate the change that I would like to see in the world.

Sales arguments

• There were 17 million new cases of cancer worldwide in 2018; we are not even including the people already living with cancer and their families. Cancer has grown into an epidemic and people need help.
• Cancer is still discussed largely in a 'clinical' context and mortality. But more and more people are surviving cancer, and living with and beyond it. There is little support available for people whose lives have been changed forever by this hideous medical condition. My book aims to fill in this vacuum.
• Whilst the survival rates of cancer are increasing, there aren't many success stories to refer to. A success story from a cancer survivor might just be the beacon of hope that may help someone get through one more dark day.

Similar titles

• Tea & Chemo by Jackie Buxton - If you want to read a book that has interwoven cancer with humour, this is it! However, it does not cater to the 'building awareness' and challenging stigma aspects of cancer.
• The fabulous woman's guide through cancer by Nicola Bourne - I can describe this book as the most 'practical' guide on cancer. It will be useful for people when they are overwhelmed with trying to manage basics of life while dealing with cancer. Cancer makes even the regular tasks and chores of life hard to manage, this book can serve as a brilliant guide. However, this book does not bring in the inspirational aspect of using cancer as a life changing event to build a better or meaningful life.
• Thrive: The Bah! Guide to wellness after cancer - Stephanie Butland - An awesome book that will pep you up; it also gives you tips and strategies that you can use to actively help yourself get better. My book is similar to this book, with the additional aspects of how cancer is interpreted and treated in the ethnic cultures.

Audience

This book is for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers, helping them to understand what it is like to live with and beyond cancer and give them the perspective that despite being a life-threatening medical condition, they can use it to make their lives meaningful and joyous through conscious choices.

Advance praise

“Parul’s account of her experience with breast cancer and what she found helpful will be a useful companion for other young women finding themselves in a similar situation.” Dr Caroline Hoffman OAM, PhD, Clinical and Research Director, The Haven, London

“A factual, informative and profound book, truly from the heart. I highly recommend this book, and it offers some important insights from Holistic Therapy.” Lorraine Smillie, Homeopath and Holistic Healer, London

“Reading through Parul’s cancer experience evoked many different emotions, from sadness to laughter, fearfulness to hope. Ultimately, it’s a very personal and very honest story of survival from breast cancer. Started as a diary, Parul covers her journey chronologically and then shares her experience of the support she sought and experienced throughout her recovery. Her family and friends had a crucial role to play, demonstrating the unpredictability of responses to a life threatening condition. Cancer still provokes a myriad of reactions and uncertainty, not only for the person going through a cancer diagnosis and treatment but everyone around them. The dynamics of relationships invariably change. Some become stronger while others struggle to survive. Understanding how family and friends could make a difference to Parul, will offer insight and awareness to the reader, giving them confidence to either ask for or offer support and practical help.

Parul shows enormous strength and courage in her quest to regain control over her body and her life, and to find a new ‘normal’. Over the years I have met many people affected by cancer yet I found Parul’s story was still incredibly moving and humbling. She has invested so much of herself and emerges as a strong, determined woman with everything to live for. This book offers hope and useful advice for anyone affected by breast cancer.”
Beverley van der Molen, Macmillan Information & Education Officer and author of ‘Taking Control of Cancer'.