Daksha Trivedi - Now lIving The Dream

My thanks to Paul and Sharon Hudson for bringing Badger, the delightful Alaskan Malamute, whenever I needed him the most.

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.”