September carries deep meaning for me, it is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and also the time we observe World Suicide Prevention Day. Two causes that have shaped both my professional journey and my personal resilience.
In this blog, I reflect on nearly three years in childrenās health, close to a year in health communication, and the lessons learned along the way - from children who remind me why childhood is worth fighting for, to the challenges of advocacy, deadlines, leadership and mental health struggles.
A mid-year reflection filled with gratitude, growth, and gentle reminders, about the mentors whoāve shaped me, the partner whoās walked beside me, and the purpose that keeps me grounded. Not always a bed of roses, and this isnāt just about milestones... itās about meaning. Six months may have gone, but they were not lost.
In this blog, I share personal and professional reflections on "The Checklist Manifesto by Dr Atul Gawande", a book my mentor once recommended when I was a bit lost, and it truly shifted my perspective. As someone working in health communication and slowly stepping into the world of palliative care, this book really hit home. Itās not just about staying organized...itās about systems that reduce errors and make space for what matters. From the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist to pilots landing planes safely using protocols, Dr Gawande shows how simple checklists save lives. He also shares great stories from how Walmart used a checklist mindset to respond effectively during Hurricane Katrina, to how Adam, a chef, ensures excellence in every dish with a checklist at every turn. These examples remind us that whether itās a crisis, an aircraft, a kitchen, or a hospital, structure brings clarity. And in palliative care, where complexity meets the need for compassionā¦that clarity is everything!
Susan Cainās Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Canāt Stop Talking was more than just a read...it was a reflection of who I am. As a quiet, behind-the-scenes leader who values depth over noise, this book helped me stop seeing my introversion as something to 'fix' and start embracing it as a strength.
From challenging the myth of constant collaboration to celebrating slow decision-making and thoughtful leadership, this book reminded me that quiet doesnāt mean incapable, it means intentional.
This blog is my reflection on how the book helped me understand, accept, and own my introversion in leadership. To every fellow introvert navigating a loud world.. youāre not alone, and your voice matters - even if itās quiet!
Reflection from the heart...a glimpse into a soul-filling reunion with my colleague-turned-sister and family who visited me in Delhi. Through memories of our time together in the BMT unit and moments shared last weekend, I explore how purpose-driven work, meaningful friendships, and quiet impact continue to shape my journey. Itās about growth: personal and professional, and the power of connection that endures across time and distance. A tribute to the people, the passion, and the purpose with love that makes it all worthwhile.
A Journey of Love, Forgiveness, and Mentorship - Embracing life's lessons from Mitch Albom's Book: Tuesdays with Morrie and Have a Little Faith
A transformative journey at PHOSSCON 2024, where the cold winds of Jammu couldnāt chill the warmth of passion and purpose. From eye-opening sessions on Bone Marrow Transplants and thalassemia to powerful insights from legends like Shobha Tuli ji, this conference lit a fire in me. I soaked in innovative fundraising strategies and discovered the crucial role of compliance in creating lasting impact. But it wasnāt just about learning, it was about connection. I met incredible people, faced unexpected challenges, and left with a renewed mission: to drive change in pediatric healthcare. Jammu may have been cold, but it surely warmed my heart - and yes, as much as Iām a dedicated public health advocate, the āpunnyā writer in me couldnāt resist, haha!
Reflecting on my first month in Delhi, sharing the ups and downs of adjusting to a new city and role. From the challenges of settling in and missing my morning jogs in Chennai, to finding a sense of balance through a refreshing cycling tour with Delhi By Cycle, itās been an adventure of growth and self-discovery. I explore lessons on adaptability, the importance of community, and how Iāve embraced new experiences to build connections in this vibrant city.
People often think Iām not fun enough to read fiction, so hereās a fiction review for you. And of course, it turned out to be quite deep, well Haruki Murakami has that effect!
Iām excited to share that Iām in Delhi for the first time, and itās been quite an experience so far. Iām here for the Indian Childhood Cancer Institute Task Force meeting on setting standards for Pediatric Psycho-Oncology Services.
I've finally managed to overcome my writer'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.
In 'Anilaadum Mundril,' each chapter about different relationships might bring tears to readers who can relate, but it's the final chapter that will move anyone to tears.
I'm in Bangalore this weekend to visit my newlywed Anna and Anni! Being back in this city brings back a flood of memories..
I gave into the hype, despite being off social media for a while and not knowing much about it. But let me tell you, it was worth it!
After really a long time, I recently revisited a classic film, prompted by a friend who reminded me of 'Dead Poets Society', a personal favorite I had watched two years ago. As far as I can recall, this was the only movie I've ever written a review about.
I'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't get me wrong, non-fiction still holds a special place in my heart.
I stress a lot about finding my niche, but now I am trying to let go of that pressure. While I remain ambitious about achieving my career goals, instead of fixating on a specific niche, I'm trying to engage in various areas, enjoying the process of building skills & knowledge, while I figure out exactly what I want to pursue in the long run.
As someone conscious about being disliked, especially by those I respect or look up to, this book, 'The Courage to Be Disliked' by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga resonated with me on a personal level, addressing the very anxieties that have, at times, clouded my sense of well-being. This book is based on the teachings of Alfred Adler, a renowned Austrian psychotherapist.
Celebrating my one-year work anniversary today! This milestone holds great significance for me, marking a noteworthy chapter in my career journey.
When people ask why I choose to openly discuss my anxiety and my personal mental health journey, I'd like to respond in the words expressed by Jenny Lawson in her book 'Furiously Happy.'
Fortunate to have participated in the 7th PHOSSCON alongside the esteemed 26th annual PHOCON in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, an ##value gathering of thought leaders, advocates, and decision-makers dedicated to addressing the comprehensive needs of those affected by childhood cancer.
This blog will consist of spontaneous content where I'll be sharing various random thoughts. It seems like that's what I've been doing for quite some time now.
Prathipa K, a versatilie professional
