In February 2012, I was diagnosed with two cancers of the blood, Stage 4 Lymphoma and Stage 3 Multiple Myeloma. This blog is an attempt to share my journey, learnings and insights with you through this process. I anticipate that this will be a long and arduous year. I have started treatment with high-dose steroids, Dextamethasone, which is creating interesting havoc in my body but is also helping to fight off the cancer.
Chemotherapy for the Lymphoma begins on March 12th for 18 weeks. The initial prognosis is that I have an excellent chance to beat the Lymphoma. Yeah!
Then the doctors will deal with the Myeloma and give me a different type of chemotherapy for another 2 months. At the moment, there is no cure for the Myeloma; however, the doctors feel they they can get this into remission.
Then the really cool stuff! For the Myeloma, the plan is to do what is known as an Autologous stem cell transplantation. Stem cells from my own bone marrow and in my blood will be extracted, frozen, stored and, after a high-dose chemotherapy treatment (where all good and bad cells in my bone marrow will be destroyed), will be infused back into me. In time, the transplanted cells will begin to produce new cancer-free blood cells. This is a relatively new and revolutionary procedure and I can’t wait to be at the frontier of medical science!
God willing, I should be back – better than ever – in December 2012. My goal this year is to embrace my vulnerability and to share my story with you with authenticity – the good and the bad, the hopes and fears, the knowns and the uncertainties, and especially the blessings.
Like the Mighty Oak Tree whose leaves and branches are constantly tested by the wind, these cancers will test my strength beyond measure. With your continued prayers and support and with God’s Grace, I know I will endure this chapter in my journey and successfully complete it — with humility and in gratitude.
– Munira
167 responses to “A Journey of a Thousand Miles, Begins With the First Step…”
I saw Munira in the clinic last week before I had read this blog. I had no idea she was a patient in treatments, she looked so robust and healthy! She was hugging another patient so I presumed family member or friend. You go girl, I love your style! From one member of the myeloma club to another.
May Hazar Imam give you strength, courage, spiritual peace, wisdom (haqiqi samaj), Iman
and fulfill all your good wishes. Ameen
Zainul Nagji
Dear Mukhianimaa Yam,
I came to know about your journey of thousand miles from one of my friend
We all pray for your fast recovery and I am sure you will get through you are a bless
momen you have done his sawa so his blessings are always with you. We will always pray for you
Amen!
Dear Muni
WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU AND KNOWING YOU WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT YOU WILL BEAT THIS MOWLA BE WITH YOU ALWAYS AND HE WILL LOOK AFTER YOU AS HE ALWAYS
LOVE ALWAYS IMMI RUBINA AZMAIRA AND FAROIZAH
786 YAM “May Allah give you and your family good health, happiness and prosperity.” Amen.
Have hope and no fear. Pray, do light exercises approved by the doctor, and with your good will to help others, you will fullfill your good wishes.
Islam means submission to the will of Allah. Accept what you have and Insha Allah, it is my hope and prayer that things will get better.
Dear Munira
I wrote to you earlier about my journey last March, and it was interesting to read about the juicing, since I have been juicing too. Except, I have been adding parsley, kale, a bit of ginger and spinach.My tumor count after my surgery in April was 160.2 and by the end of August, it had gone down to 8.4. This was last year, at present my tumor count is around 7
There is something else I would like to share with you. When I had lost my mobility and after my radiation treatment. I use to try to walk round the house with the aid of a walker and I made up couple of tasbhis for myself and go round and round the pool table saying it loud.
Ya Ali , Ya Mowla, Thank you for healing my body, my bones and my joints from cancer, make my body pain free and cancer free zone x 33
Ya Ali, Ya Mowla, Thank you for destroying and killing all the cancer cells and any diseased cells in my body and replace them with fresh new healthy cells x 33
Also if you can get hold of an Audio by Deepak Chopra, “Quantam Healing”, the idea of the tasbhis I got was through that. I have tonnes of Audios, all inspirational which I have dowloaded on my IPod, and listen to them when I go to bed, with positive affirmations.
I can mail you a copy of that if you like.
Take care and God Bless
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I am certainly appreciating the importance of visualization, positive thinking, juicing, prayers and relaxation. Munira
YAM Mukhiani Maa and Family Members:
I applaud your courage, determination and faith.
I don’t have any word to express my feelings but to offer the following prayers:
– May Mowla give you audacity, wisdom and eternal peace.
– May Mowla hold you every moments of day and night during your treatments and recovery.
– May Mowla grant Premji family all the wisdom they need
– May Mowla award you acumen in worldly and spiritual matters
– May Mowla multiply thousand fold your faith/wisdom/courage
AMEEN AMEEN AMEEN
Nizar/Shamim Dobani
Thank you so much Nizar and Shamim for your profound and heartfelt prayers. I feel them. Munira
From a friend
This MIRACLE DRINK has been circulating for
a long time long ago. It is worth your while to take note.
There is a celebrity Mr. Seto who swears by it.
He wants to make it public to draw the attention of people
who have cancers. This is a drink that can protect bad cells
forming in your body or it will restrain its growth!
Mr. Seto had lung cancer.
He was recommended to take
this drink by a famous Herbalist from China.
He has taken this
drink diligently for 3 months and now his health is restored,
and he is ready to take a pleasure trip. Thanks to this drink!
It does not hurt for you to try.
It is like a Miracle Drink! It is simple.
You need one beet root, one carrot and one apple that
combine together to make the JUICE !
Wash the above, cut with the skin on into pieces and put
them into the juicer and immediately you drink the juice.
You can add some lime or lemon for more refreshing taste.
This Miracle Drink will be effective for the following ailments:
1. Prevent cancer cells to develop. It will restrain cancer cells to grow.
2. Prevent liver, kidney, pancreas disease and it can cure ulcer as well.
3. Strengthen the lung, prevent heart attack and high blood pressure.
4. Strengthen the immune system
5. Good for the eyesight, eliminate red and tired eyes or dry eyes
6. Help to eliminate pain from physical training, muscle ache
7. Detoxify, assist bowel movement, eliminate constipation.
Therefore it will make skin healthy & LOOK more radiant.
It is God sent for acne problem.
8. Improve bad breath due to indigestion, throat infection,
9. Lessen menstrual pain
10. Assist Hay Fever Sufferer from Hay Fever attack.
There is absolutely no side effect. Highly nutritious and easily absorbs!
Very effective if you need to loose weight. You will notice your
immune system will be improved after 2 week routine.
Please make sure to drink immediately from the juicer for best effect.
WHEN TO DRINK IT;
DRINK IT FIRST THING IN THE MORNING WITH THE
EMPTY STOMACH! AFTER ONE HOUR YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST.
FOR FAST RESULTS DRINK 2 TIMES A DAY,
IN THE MORNING AND BEFORE 5 P.M.
YOU WILL NEVER REGRET!
IT DOES NOT COST YOU MUCH MONEY!
PLEASE CIRCULATE TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
(source:::http://in-the-emails.blogspot.com/2010/10/miracle-drink-carrot-potato-and-apple.html)
Ya Ali! We had not heard of this miracle drink but interestingly my mom has been making me carrot juice with beetroot, and other vegetables, which I have been drinking everyday for the past month.
Munira, kudos to your courage and positive outlook. I’m from Pune in India and I have been working in the field of cancer management for the last 16 years, mainly palliative care. I have come across thousands of patients and interacted with many of them on a one-to-one basis and believe me, each one is unique and has taught me an invaluable lesson. It is wonderful that you are sharing your experiences, it helps many to gather their inner strength when they know that others are experiencing similar situations. My heart goes out to those who do not have the means to be part of this network and who undergo needless pain and suffering. Wish there was some way to reaching out to them.
Warm regards,
Fatima
Thanks for reaching out Fatima. When we started the blog the purpose was to share information with family and close friends. I am flabbergasted that this has become so much bigger and that there are so many hits on the site from all parts of the world. I had no idea that this would be particularly useful to anyone. Your comments really touched me. I may not know you but I am so proud of you for the work that you do working with patients who are at their most vulnerable. I pray that you find strength and fulfillment in your purpose. Munira
Thank you Munira.
Ya Ali Madat Mukhniani Maa,
We pray for you. Allah be with you all the time and give courage to YOU and your family. You have given so many DUA’S to the JAMATI MEMBERS. You will have more beautiful hair back after your treatment. Someone from my family had lost her hair too. Guess what, my nephew’s DAUGHTER donated her hair to cancer society AND SAID THE HAIR WILL GROW BACK.
Thanks for your encouragement Begum. At home I walk around without hair and am beginning to get more comfortable with this look. Please tell your nephews daughter that I am incredibly proud of her as I now realize what a noble thing she did. I am experimenting with wigs and scarves and having fun with them! Munira
Mukhiyani Maa,
I don’t know you I have never met you,my sister in law fwd this sight,and I am so happy
for you that you have so much support from family and friends,you are very LUCKY.
May all your wishes come true and may Mowla bless you with all the health you
deserve. AMEEN
Your note is a wonderful reminder to me of how lucky I am. I am so incredibly humbled by the support, encouragement and prayers of friends, family, colleagues and people I don’t even know. This is truly Gods grace. Munira
Munira,
Thank you for your kind and selfless response to help us.
I read and saw your chemo photos and the HAT and the hair – I must admit I had tears as it took me through our own journey but you have re-ignited me like you wouldn’t believe to be behind my wife 300% to fight
Gloria Gaynor and I will survive does really say what I am trying to spill out of my guts right NOW
I see that you have many friends, family and people behind you and that will become your success story
Your positivity is an inspiration to us all!
God Bless!
YAM
Karim
GOD Bless and we Pray for you
You are amazing what an incredible journey you have shared with us . So brave yet so strong
My wife is going trough type 3 Breast Cancer and you have injected so much strength into HER I thank you
YAM
Karim Mecklai
Toronto
I am so sorry Karim. I had idea that your wife is battling cancer. I am going to keep her in my prayers and send her healing energy. How are you doing? We will be part of each others journey. Take care. Munira
YAM Mukhiani Saheba
We are all praying for you. You have touched a lot of hearts in many ways.
We were Jamati M/K’s at Bayview JK from 2002-2005. In April 2006 my husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor, from the Brain Stem to his Sinuses. No surgeon was ready to do a surgery on him at that time. One of the Surgeons at Toronto East, did not even know what this growth was. After attending to another Dr. at Toronto Western. Dr. Gentily diagnosed it as CLIVAL CHORDOMA which is 1 in 2 million, and 90% chance for it to come back if taken out. Dr Amin Kassam who was in Pittsburgh at that time and offered to do his surgery as he does a lot of open skull surgeries.
In the mean time, dr. Gentily agreed to follow up with other surgeons through round table, and was convinced that he can perform the surgery. Surgery took place on September 2006 and was hospitalized for 17 days. Shukhar al-Hamdulilah, he is fine since then even though he has good and bad days. The reason for me to write all this is to let you know that HE tests us in all accepts.
Mukhiani Saheba, you are a very strong individual and can fight this. You are not alone in this! Our whole Ismaili brothers and sisters are praying for you in every way. The prayer that you have given to the Jamati members may be returned back to you in thousand folds and may he make this journey of yours easier. Never loose hope. May Mowla keep you strong and give you all the peace that you deserve. We are all here in this world to fight for something or the other. We wish you well and have a positive attitude, May Mowla give you lots of Strength and courage during this time to you and your Family.
Wow! What an incredible story. It is a story of sadness and hope, and miracles and prayer. I cannot even imagine what you and your family went through. I am so happy that the outcome was positive. Very inspiring. I too am encouraged to fight this myself! Munira
YAM Mukhianima
Your strength of character and your steadfast faith really stands out in these difficult times. I admire and respect you for your courage. You have taught us a lot and reminded us to be grateful for Allah’s blessings every day. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
I pray for your speedy recovery – everyday. We will see your smiling face in Jamatkhana soon.
Parin
More and more I make time to see Allahs blessings. And it is really in everything we do, touch, feel. I am appreciating this in every moment. Amen to your prayers Parin. I hope to come to JK next week. Munira
Dear Mukhianisaheba,
My family and I are very saddened to hear of your illness but inspired by your courage and determination to overcome this. You really are an amazing leader!
My parents, sister and I are all rooting for you and praying that you have a complete recovery. We look forward to seeing your cheerful and friendly smile again soon.
With lots of prayers and love. Ya Ali Madad to you and your family.
Asif
Dear asif. Thank you to you and to your parents and sister for your prayers and love. I too am praying for complete recovery so that I can look forward to the next 20 years……..! Munira
From the bottom of my heart _. You are in my dua.
I am so humbled Shemin. Thank you for including me in your prayers. Munira
May Mowla always hold you in the Palm of His Hand as you go thru your journey, amen
with ya ali madad and heartfelt prayers for your speedy recovery
nazeera moledina
Nazeera – what a wonderful visual it is to be held in the palm of mowla’s hand. Amen to that! Munira
Muni mukhianimaa, sister, friend……I was very sad when I heard the news, but from what I know of you from our moshi days together (our ginan mushairo practices and all the fun times we spent together), you possess the inner strength, spirituality and courage…our prayers are with you and your family. May Mowla be with you at all times and give you all strength and courage on this journey.
lots of love
Azmina & Alnoor Velji
How can I forget those days. And you taught me calligraphy! Thank you so much for reaching out Azmina. I am doing really well with Mowla’s grace. Next chemo is on Monday and the doctors are happy with the way I am progressing. Really appreciate your prayers. Muni
Mukhianima,
ou have always inspired us with your words and prayers and I am sure Allah will make this task easy for you and the journey shorter. Love you
Mumtaz
Thank you for your support Mumtaz! Munira
Dear Mukhianima Munira Premji, I do not know you or have known about you so far but I have just read about your unfortunate illness.Yet you keep courage and from them essages you recived you must be convinced we are all together praying for your health. As Mukhiani you are very close to Hazar Imam and we pray you will carry our prayers for your health to mowla and through His grace and blessings your recovery will happen. you have been brave and happy inspite of it all. You have your family with you but you also have your extended family of your brothers and sisters with you who share your pain and discomfort. Mowla will make it possible for you and family to be at ease with you. Your strength gives strength to so many other murids who like you also suffer from illnesses. So do not lose hope.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write and to offer prayers. I am humbled and sitting in so much gratitude. I promise not to give up hope. I feel Mowla carrying me through this. Munira
You are an inspiration to a lot of us. We pray to Mowla that he be with you throughout this difficult time and come out of it stronger than ever. Ameen.
Shafin Kassam
I really like the part about coming out of this stronger than ever. Thank you for reaching out Shafin. Munira
I have never met you before but your article has really touched me. I am praying to mawla to give you lots of strength to face your current health issue.May mawla bless you with long life and lots of happiness. Please be positive.
Amen to long life! I promise to continue to be positive…. Munira
YAM Munira
I had no idea about this until someone sent me your blog. I was shocked!! Munira, please know that my prayers are with you everyday. You are a fellow coach and you have inspired so many people including myself. You still have lots of work ahead of you my friend. I pray for your quick recovery and return to the coaching world!! May mowla be with you always!! Ameen.
Sincerely, Rumina
Dearest Rumina – I owe you a phone call. Sorry! I have thought of you often this year and wondered how you are doing. I think you are such a star! I smiled when I read your note that I have lots of work ahead of me. I agree! You should see all the projects I am involved in around the house. I am driving everyone crazy! Hope to return to the coaching world later in the year. Love Munira
Ya Ali Madat Mukhiani Maa,
You have been an inspirational for all of us, Our prayers and wishes are with you. Your smile and the strength will keep you moving.
Jessa and Family from East Africa
Thank you Jessa family from Africa. I am so touched that you took the time to write. Thank you for your wishes and prayers. Munira
Keep strong and we pray for all of you., if there is anything we can do, please dont hesitate to ask.
Thank you for your encouragement and prayers. Munira
My dear Munira – it has been many, many years since we met but I have many fond memories of our time together in Moshi and Arusha and Toronto. When I think of you it’s your forever smiling face that comes to mind. You were full of laughter and happiness and always found a way to be positive. I have read through the blogs you and your family have posted and you make this journey sound like a bump in the road – your courage, your strength and your ability to remain positive and to find humour in everything around you is truly admirable. I am proud to be your friend and wish you well. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs, laughter and sunshine – Wedad (Vancouver)
Wedad – your note brought me back so many memories! I remember how our favorite song was “whiter shade of pale” – you introduced me to it. And that was more than 30 years ago. Thanks for reconnecting. Any chance you will be coming to Toronto? Your love and support mean so much to me. Munira
We pray for your recovery.,and think of you Mukhiani Maa,
you gave us so much strength before,now and always!!!
Salome
Thank you so much for taking the time to connect Salome. Really appreciate it. Munira
My dear friend Munira
I learned yesterday of your diagnosis of cancer from Facebook and asked the same question that I am sure you have many times – how could this happen to such a beautiful, loving, healthy & vibrant person? I know that if there is anyone who has the strength and positive attitude to deal with this, it is you. However, knowing that there will be difficult days, I would like to pass along two pieces of encouragement.
Prayer from Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Germany 1906-1945)
O God, early in the morning I cry to you.
Help me to pray; and to concentrate my thoughts on you; I cannot do this alone.
In me there is darkness, but with you there is light;
I am lonely, but you do not leave me;
I am feeble in heart, but with you there is help;
I am restless, but with you there is peace.
In me there is bitterness, but with you there is patience;
I do not understand your ways, but you know the way for me.
Restore me to liberty, and enable me to live now that I may answer before you and before men.
Lord, whatever this day may bring, your name be praised.
What Cancer Cannot Do
Cancer is so limited…
It cannot cripple Love
It cannot shatter Hope
It cannot corrode Faith
It cannot destroy Peace
It cannot kill Friendship
It cannot suppress Memories
It cannot silence Courage
It cannot invade the Soul
It cannot steal Eternal Life
It cannot conquer the Spirit
Munira, you have my continued prayers and whatever support I can offer (even if that is just holding your hand or baking my latest dessert for you and your family). Please do let me know when you might feel up to a phone call or visit.
Lots of warm hugs,
Cindy
Dearest Cindy. I was thinking about you yesterday. We were celebrating Sabrina’s family birthday yesterday and of course when we started to think about desserts, it had to be death by chocolate! Thank you for introducing me to this decadent recipe – it will forever be your claim to fame! Yes, this was a really shocking diagnosis. One day you are at the top of your world, and next you are fighting for your life. I don’t understand much of it but I have accepted this as gods will and something to experience and learn from. I am also pretty optimistic that this is but one year of my life, and hopefully I will have Many, many, many years to do incredible things with what I learn. I love the prayer and quote. I am going to make a copy of the quote and stick in on the mirror. Thanks Cindy. Can we plan a call one of these days? Munira
Dear Munira
Last March, I was diagnosed with breast cancer stage 4 with bone metastases(spine) and was told it was aggressive. I decided to have a bilateral mastectomy as I did not want to take any chances for it to re occur on the good one. I lost my mobility after 2 weeks, wheelchair bound and gradually a walker and had to have radiation on my bones. The Doctors gave me no hope, I can still hear the words of the surgeon.He patted my hand and said I am sorry I can’t do anymore for you, wrote me off. It made me more determined to fight this Big C, I said to them I am a fighter and a survivor and I will prove it to you,their answer was you are very optimistic, my answer to them was I am confident I will get through this challenge. Luckily , I have not had to have any chemotherapy, the hormone treatment as well as juicing, accu pressure once a week, I am on road to recovery, my motto was I WILL SURVIVE MY JOURNEY TOO.
With a lot TLC from my family and prayers from every corner of the world, I am on the mend, Shukar.
As from today, I will keep you up in my prayers.
What an inspiring story. I admire your courage, your strength and your will. You are truly a survivor and i have no doubt that you will conquer this. I pray that you continue to be on the mend and that your recovery is full and complete. Love, Munira
oOur prayers for Mukhani Saheba Munira Premji’s quick recovery and good health.
May Mawla grant the her and the family the strength and courage during this journey
almas hajiani (scotiabank)
Amen to all your prayers Almas. Really appreciate it. Munira
ear Munira,
I admire you courage and your positive attitude. Hold the fort . I am praying for your speedy recovery.
I will hold the fort! Munira
Munira, I was very much shaken to hear of your ordeal. My prayers for strength to fight
this – I know you can with so much positive energy in you and support from your family
and prayers from friends.
Be strong and continue to be positive. Yes you can !
Nizar Vellani
Love the reference to “yes I can”! I have been blessed with prayers and support of family and friends. Munira
My Dear Sis,
Naver i forget your smiling face.U know i like your family sooo much.last january in Delhi i miss u soo much.i call iu lot of time but your india mobil was swich off.
We are praying for your speedy recovery and meet with u Iin Delhi. Monoroma
Monograms I think you have the wrong person. We have not met before. I hope you find the right person in Delhi. Apologies! Munira
I pray for your total recovery. Insha allah. May Mowlabapa be with you at all times.
I love how you say total recovery. Amen to that! Munira
Dear Munira Mukhianimaa,
I was forwarded your blog by a very close friend of mine in Vancouver.
You are “truly an Inspiration”.
I am amazed at your strength, courage and commitment…you are “already on your way to recovery”. We are praying for your speedy recovery.
Navroz Mubarak…may this new year bring you good health, happiness and success always.
Rashida
Rashida i love how you say that I am already on my way to recovery. I will hold on to that thought every day. Thank you of your prayers. Munira
lWith your strong will and our prayers you will pull through this. Keep up the confidence, Mowla is always besides you
Thank you for your support and encouragement. Munira
Our prayers for Mukhani Saheba Munira Premji’s quick recovery and good health.
May Mawla grant the her and the family the strength and courage during this journey.
Regards
Pervaiz (Richmond Hill JK)
Amen to all your prayers Pervaiz! Munira
We have never met.Our prayers are with you. Admire your courage Just trust in Allah.We Hope and wish you speedy recovery.
Thank you so much for your good wishes and prayers. Munira
I received a forward email and I do not know you but I have been thru it 5 years and am survival shuker with the faith in Mawla, my family support, my friends and my jamaat. U will be fine just be happy and be brave. In life ups and down come but your have to be strong and always remember Mawla has told us “you are never alone’. Don’t worry and chant your mawla’s name all the time. I know it is hard as I have been thru but it will pass by inshallah soon. These are just waves and test of faith. You will be in my prayers everyday at 4.00 am when I wake up. I also pray for your family to be strong and support you at all times. Cheers and smile our brave Muhyanimaa.
Love you lots
Rozy Lalji Nanji
Rozy – Thank you so much for your note. I am so pleased that you are a survivor. Shukhar. I so appreciate your support and prayers. Munira
Munira, I love your strength and your courage and the love you have for yourself. You will come through this and you will not recognize yourself for you will be stronger than ever before. I am so pleased you are sharing your story, so many can learn and find connection to your experience. You are a blessing….xx Imesia
Hi imnesia. I am so happy to get your note! I’m finding that the coaching learning is so helping me through this journey. I know it will be a transformational year. I wonder what will be possible after! Much love. Munira
Ya ali madad Munira, my uncle in Canada sent me an email in regards to your cancer treatment and I like to wish you the best as you embark on this journey of good days and better days as the battle begins in your veins. My sister was recently given an all clear after treatment for breast cancer in Calgary. Please remain strong my prayers are with you.
Shafik Leicester Uk
Thanks so much for your note Shafiq I am thrilled that your sister is doing well. Those are good stories to share! Munira
PS. Say hello to Mum and Nina…………
Zahir
Will do. Munira
My Dearest Muni, Nagib, Sabrina and Shayne,
When we met in Calgary last summer, who could have imagined the events of the last couple of months?
You know, sometimes life happens and it trips us up from our preceived reality.
But the good news is that it is a temporary nuisance.
Even better news is the leaps in medical advances by the day.
I hope our telephone chat enlightened you and inspired you to keep on keeping on.
I am thrilled by your positive attitude and with the family support and everyone’s prayers, you will get through the ordeal very quickly – Amen
Love you,
Zahir, Almas, Nadim, Lila, Jaden, Nico Karmali
Ya Ali zahir. I really like seeing this as a temporary nuisance. I think what is helping me is thinking about life over the next 20 years to keep perspective. It was good to chat with you on the phone. Please say hi to Almas for me. Muni
YAM Mukhianima Munira,
Our deepest prayers for you and your family. May Mawla bless you with all the courage and strength, Ameen. We hope & wish you to have speedy recovery.
Zaveri family
Amen for all your prayers. Munira
Ya Ali Madad Mukhianima,
You are so Loved and cared for , all the prayers sent your way and your Courage. WOW!!!
Next year in spring when you are reading your book_____You are going to be amazed,
Please do not OWN this.(I truly call it NONSENSE), Just remember to breath deeply and feed these cells LOT of oxygen. Lot of fresh Veggie Juice daily. No sugar and White Flour please
Much Love and prayers for you and all your loved ones,
Mherun Vellani
Sugar Land Texas
As I am reading your note, I want you to know that I am breathing deeply. Thanks for the reminder. I will remember to do this often throughout the day! Munira
Thank you mherun. Really, really appreciate your warm wishes and prayers. I feel very humbled. Munira
My deepest prayers for you and y our family. I truly admire your courage and positive attitude. Insahallh, you will be fine. Rubina from Atlanta, USA
Even though we do not know u, but we can feel your positive attitude. This positive good vibrations will go thru u first to cure u. All our prayers are for u and may Mowla bless you in this recovery process. Plz do not think u r alone, we are with u all the way. When so many souls are praying for u, think how lucky u r on this journey. You will be fine and I would like to meet u one day. What an inspiration u r to us. Allah bless u in all your treatments. Amen.
Mariam from Atlanta, USA.
Amen to your prayers Rubina. Munira
Thank you Rubina from Atlanta! I am focusing beyond this year to the next 20 years. It is helping me focus on the long term. Munira
My hair is starting to come out today and it is hard to feel positive this moment. But I know that this too is part of the journey! Munira
Y A M Mukhiani Saheba.
BRAVO! Mowla has given you so much strength to go through this challenging period but because of your wonderful seva and the Dua you have given to the Jamat, shukhar that you have taken it so well. Our prayers are with you for a speedy recovery. YOU are an inspiration to us who complain over little misfortunes. We have a lot to learn from you. ALL THE BEST MUKHIANI SAHEBA. Will be thinking of you and praying for you everyday, inshallah.
love and prayers
Nashir Kassam, EDMONTON
Your encouragement, support and prayers mean so much to me Nashir. Munira
Dearest Munira, Nagib, and the Premji family,
Navroz Mubarak! And so, yet another chapter in The Journey.
May the new year’s felicitations bring with them renewed hope; resilience of faith; blessings of affection; prayers of the community; graces of Providence and far, far more than mere words could enumerate.
It’s a delight to see your family portrait. Mukhi Sahibah, while you don’t look a day older than my memory of you from back when Nagib was our Mukhi Sahib (in love) at York U., and Pink Floyd’s “Brick in the Wall” was barely making it on the CHUM airwaves, I thought Nagib too was remarkably unchanged; i.e., until I recognized the man with the salt ‘n pepper beard on the right… and realized I have yet to meet the one carrying the weight of light in the center! 🙂
Your news no doubt presents serious concern, in a worldly sense. The ravages of drain upon health truly do place us at the very limits of our humanity.
Yet, if the message in between the lines of your blog – not unlike that of The Qur’an ash-Sharif itself – is read for its spirit, then it is one of perennial celebration; sustained in ways transcending the limits of our humanity. For such grace which your words embody, and the sheer courage that you characterize in the face of no small worldly adversity, I hope for your sustained bravery – even as the rest of us, your friends, and family, get set to pray for your total containment in physical safety and emotional security during the next few months of therapy, and ultimately for the protection and well being of your family – with your full, and rebounded participation within!
Wishing you sound health, healthy spirits and every good cheer!
with much affection,
Alnoor B Kassam.
Alnoor Kassam. What a delightful note and so many memories captured in your note! It also brought me memories of you singing The House of the Rising Sun on your guitar! It’s been so long since Nagib and I have seen you. We need to correct this! Where do you live now? It was really tough for us when we first got the news. And then at some point we got to acceptance. I think that’s when things changed and we gained some perspective. Every day right now is an interesting one and we are learning. I will look forward to the fulll and rebounded participation in life with Mowlas grace. Munira
YAM Munira Mukhianimaa!
I heard of your news a few days ago and was filled with some sadness as I recounted the memories of Moshi, our good old school days and then the meeting once again as you became Mukhianimaa at Willowdale! Always the wonderful smile with the gentle soft voice that has inspired so many everywhere that you have been.
This hick-up in the Journey of your life, will, ins’Allah pass, making you even stronger and further blessed with the wisdom to assist others. Our prayers are there for you and all your loved ones to have the strength to walk through this difficult, yet wisdom filled hick-up. May you continue being on sirat-ul-mustaqeem and may you all have the Love in your hearts, Amen.
My best memory of you is how you started up a library in your home and how popular that was! We do go back a long way, don’t we Minaz? Thank you for your prayers and good wishes. Munira
hi Munira On the highway of life there are bound to be some bumps in the road along with some potholes and jerks but anyway you’ll get through it.our prayers are with you. God will give you strenth and courage. your friends are holding you close in their hearts.
You are so right. I am seeing this as a bump on the road. A big bump, but a bump nevertheless! My plan is to fix the pothole as soon as possible! Munira
Hey Munira,Karim Moloo here want 2 pass U my c.d of ur favourite ghazals sung by me,please let me know how a.s.a.p, I want 2 be part of ur journey thru music( I know it definitly connects us),Prayers & good wishes.
Ya Ali Katim Moloo! I would love a copy of your cd! Any chance you can come home one evening so we can pray and sing together? Like a jammin’ session? Perhaps a few days after my chemo on April 2? Munira
YAM Mukhianima, I was hesitant to get in touch with you and hey presto someone send me an email linking to your blog. And as I am reading all these messages, I came across my friend Karim’s email and guess what – I want to be part of this jamming session as well. Not only we will pray and sing but how about a classical dance, remember we danced for the seniors and you became my inspiration. Through these trials and tributions, I know you will not loose your smile and your courage.
Praying for you. Mum sends you her love. Love, light and prayers
Raziya Jessa
Please read Surah Baqrah then Surah Rehman and then Surah Yaseen, there in you will find the Answers, Courage and lastly you will find Hope. With prayers and deep admiration Gulshy Atlanta USA
Thank you Gulshy. Munira
Mukhiani Maa, You are our aspiration,we love you and pray for the recovery faster.
God bless you and your family.
Thank you for your prayers. Munira
Ya Ali Madad Mukhianimaa Munira, You and I first met when we were both on the Education Board and then later when we both worked at the Zurich Building and then Mukhianimaa! Lots of water under the bridge, BUT one thing has not changed, whenever I saw you, you were always smiling and bubbly and even now when I read your blog it is as if you were smiling when writing and being brave for everyone of us who is reading it and especially for your family! You are an inspiration, for all of us! My hats off to you! We are all praying for you! May Mowla’s blessings always be with you. Ameen. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and you bethcha, we will all be part of your journey!
With you as part of my journey, how can I fail?! Munira
As soon as you are ready, I will do a tango with you.
Amir Jaffer
And I will select the music……! Game on! Munira
I do not know you but share a mutual friend and it is our sincere prayer that you be graced with the strength, courage and fortitude to face this most diificult period in your life. May gods grace. mercy, kindness,strength, and courage be your beacons in your journey ahead.
With kindest regards and wishes
Jenny
Jenny. I love the concept of beacon. It speaks to hope! Munira
[…] via http://i-will-survive.org. […]
Mukhianimaa, I cannot think of another person who can fight as hard as you can. You have been my inspiration for a very long time. You have the energy, the strength and the faith to help you through this journey. I know for a fact that whose ever path you have touched, they will be praying for you because we need people like you in this world to lift us up. Please keep your hopes up. We are all here for you.
Tazim
Tazim I am so touched by your note. I feel your love and support. Munira
MukhianiMaa, we do not know each other. However, I want you to know that we’re setting up a prayer chain for you in Atlanta also.
love & prayers,
Gulshan
I am so touched and humbled and speechless. I know that it is the power of prayers that is carrying me through this. I am in zero pain and feel Gods grace every moment of every day. Munira
Yam Mukhyanima:
Allah is always with the believer, you have given dua on behalf of H.I. to the whole jamat and it will come back to you in million folds.InshsahAllah. with your kind of attitude you are definitly seeing a bright light at the end of the tunnel.And our prayers will light your tunnel also Ameen.zainub
Thanks zainab! Can’t wait to see the light at the end of the tunnel….Munira
YA ALI MADAD MUNIRA,
Althoygh we have not met, I pray for your recovery and Pray that Mawla blesses you with courage and strenght to fight the cancer.
I lost my wife Nasim in July of 2010 day with pancreatic cancer. she was 58 and survived only two months and ten days after she was was diaognized.
Kind regards,
Fatehali
Ya Ali Madad Munira,
Even though I do not know you, I pray for your recovery, and pray that Mawla gives you strenght and courage. Ameen.
I lost my wife in July of 2010. She had pancreatic cancer. IT was diaognized in May and was given two months. No treatment, just Oxycontone and other pain related druds in hospital. she was 58.
Fatehali
Ya ali Madad Munira,
I pray for your recovery and pray that Mawla gives you strenght and courage. I also lost my wife Nasim in July of 2010she was 58, diagnised with panceatic cancer. Doctor found out in May and within taht short period she was gone.
be brave and have faith.
kind regards
Fatehali
Sounds like you miss your wife very much. I feel like she is in a peaceful place. Amen to your prayers. Munira
Yam Mukhianimaa:
A year abd half ago I was in the same journey, different cancer, had difficult time during chemo, had lots of complications and routine chemo problems, but with the help and support from friends and family, I did well.
Now I am on the road of recovery and getting back to full time job and all other duties with some modifications, but with the grace of Allah and blessing from Mowla I am doing well, stay positive and ready for challange with courage weapon, You will fight the battle.
Get my # from Amir Khalfan if you need to talk to me
YAM
Parveen J
I pray that you stay on the road to recovery. I so Ppreciate stories of people like yourself who have been through this journey and have made it through successfully! Munira
Wish you well: Nimet Jinnah, Roshi Khakhi, Yasmin Motani – USA
Thank you so much for your good wishes. Munira
Hello Munira,
I admire you strength ,with hope & prayers you will definatly come through.
There are clinics in Tiyuana , Mexico they deal with people with all and every type of cancers with 85% success rates.
My brother and his wife are at present there being treated and they have witnessed and seen the results that these clinics are achieving . These clinics are offering the treatments that you mentioned and other natural treatments that are not allowed in Canada & USA.
You can read about these clinics in life magazine and also on Internet.
If you wish to get further information, you can contact me on my e mail and I can send you a contact and a telephone number of the clinic.
My prayers are with you.
YAM.
Nash
Thanks Nash for all this info. And I pray for your brother and his wife. Munira
Ya Ali Madad Mukhianimaa,
We haven’t met……but i heard about you through a good friend. I have read the your blog and all i can say is that ‘You will make it!’ With your faith and positive attitude, you are already a winner because you (your faith) are bigger than the cancer! My prayers are always with you for a complete and smooth treatment and recovery. Lots of luv, Shahinoor Visram (Kenya).
Thanks shahinoor. I am differentiating between I have cancer, but cancer does not have me! Munira
The saying is when things get tough, tough get going. You are the living example of that. Our prayers are with you.
Mary Hassanali
Calgary
Some days I feel tougher than others! Today has been such a great day with god’s grace. Munira
Mukhianimaa:
You are strong, courageous and full of spunk! I truly admire you and I know you can kick cancer’s butt…. in style.
My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Got to do it in style!
Munira mukhiani,
I wish you all the best in your journey of survival and hope. You are in my prayers.
Let me know if I can do anything for you.
Thank you naila. You must be so happy to have safiya back for a while. I know I treasure my days with Sabrina. Prayers for the health of all your family. Munira
Ya Aly Madat Mukhianima,
I heard your news about 10 days ago and have been thinking of you and praying to Mowla to give you and your family the strength, courage and faith to travel on this new and difficult journey. May He always keep you smiling and may His hand never leave your shoulder. Ameen
Take care.
Nadiya Makhani & Family
How nice to hear from you Nadiya Mukhianimaa! I hear you had a great reunion with Nawaaz. And I am so thrilled that Leila created her dream of going to med school. You must be so proud! This journey is certainly taking a lot of strength and courage. With everyone’s prayers, we hope to make it through successfully. Munira
Your inner strength vibrates through us all. I love reading your blog…I find strength, comfort and peace just by reading it. Thank you for taking us through your journey.
Nice to hear from you my friend. How have you been? I have been worried about you. I get a sense that things are going really well for you. I am glad you like the blog. Coming from a graphic designer it means a lot! Sabrina was the architect of creating it.
Ya Ali Madat Mukhiani Maa,
You have been an inspirational for all of us, Our prayers and wishes are with you. Your smile and the strength will keep you moving.
Shyrose Visram
Thanks Shyrose so much for your encouragement and prayers. Munira
Munira,
You rock!
I believe what Shirin has said…Yes, you will survive, stronger than ever.
PS I was on dextamethsone for 7 months after I had the AVM in my brain and your correct in saying it does play havoc with the body.
Caroline
And now I am on a 100mg of predisone. My body is feeling like a confused mass of protoplasm……Munira
Dear Mukhiani Maa,
Please be careful of too many toxic drugs, as you are right, they cause havoc in the body. Prednisone weakens the bones so have extra calcium and vitamins, especially vitamin D from the sun. Do try green juicing and coconut oil massages and water therapy, this means, bathing in water with epsom salt, water massages and drinking good water. Also, you are very strong spiritually and so you will make it through this journey successfully, Inshallah!
94.5 So, verily, with every difficulty, there is relief.
Fa-inna maa al-usri yusran
94:6 Verily, with every difficulty there is relief.
Inna maa al-usri yusran
Prayers and good thoughts for you,
Nina Jaffer
Hi Mukhiani Maa,
I have been holding you in my thoughts and prayers and had initially broadcasted I Will Survive when I found out about you. Thank you for your seva and now everyone’s rooting for you!
You may find this very interesting – please ask your awesome family to do more research on it as Iodine therapy reverses breast cancer. Inshallah!
http://www.breastcancerchoices.org/iprotocol.html
You can find more info on the above link. Wishing you well!
Nina Jaffer
http://www.amaana.org/ismanew.html
My Prayers and wishes are with you.. I am also one of those who is fighting cancer at the moment. With Mowla with us we will make it through this tough time …
I am holding you in a place of health and light, and with absolute certainty that you will recover completely shehnaz. Thanks for sharing. Munira
Mawla Bless You.
Amen to that! Munira
Special prayers go out to you and your family. I am from Moshi and went to school with your sister Naaz.
Everytime i meet you; you give me strenght to fight my demons off; My prayers are with you to be stronger than ever and Yes, you will survive. I have always believed that. Wishing you the very best of recovery.
Thanks so much for your encouraging note Shirin! Munira
Thank you for including us in your journey of strength, vulnerability, inspiration, love; and to see first-hand the power of prayer.
Shyrose
Shy – – You are so important to me. This is also a journey of friendship…..Muni
Dear Munni Mukhianima,
The going is hard, keep walking towards your goal. You can do it, believe in yourself, “COZ I BELIEVE IN YOU!”…..
Lots of love and prayers,
Shermin
Ya Ali Shermin – – Thank you for believing. I am going to hold on to that. Munira
Hello Munira,
My prayers are with you to be stronger than ever and Yes, you will survive. I have always admired your strength and determination to pursue things you wanted to do. So, my friend, I am going to join all your family and friends in prayers for your speedy recovery. Looking forward to seeing you well very soon.
Naseem Pirani
Thank you so much for being part of the journey with us! Munira
YAM Mukhiani-ma,
We haven’t met but I know someone who had the stem cell treatment. It is very severe but the results are excellent. At the stage when all the cancerous & good cells are destroyed with chemotheraphy, your immune system will be at its lowest so be very careful (only 1-2 people entering your room – a simple cold can be very dangerous). It will also be your lowest point during the treatment. However, from what I have read you already have the 2 strongest elements on your side, your faith and sheer determination – lethal weapons against any disease!! My uncle underwent this treatment in England in 1995 (still in its trial stage) and is now in remission and doing very well – Shukhar Mowla. He is in the medical profession so was well informed of the treatment and its severity. If you need any further information, please let me know and I will connect you to him.
With prayes & warmest regards
Azmina
Dearest Mukhianima: You are courageous, to say the least and thanks soo much for sharing this with us. IWe will be thinking of you and our prayers will be with you at all times.
Have faith in God.
Love
Parin
Thank you for your support and prayers. Munira
Ya Ali Madad,
I pray Imam that he gives whatever you want.
Sumeet Umani MBA (Finance)
Amen to your prayers. Munira