This is a very special episode. Today I welcome general dentist and practice owner Dr. Parul Dua Makkar, the sister of Manu Dua, a dentist who passed away earlier this year from oral cancer at the early age of 34. Manu was her younger and only brother, and now Dr. Makkar is shining a light on his life and his writings. She has compiled and published his series of blogs that he wrote during his fight with cancer. This episode focuses on her story of her experiences and lessons learned through the process of escorting her brother through the end of his life as well as the goals of his book of finding your inner peace.

Compiling, publishing and promoting his book is part of Dr. Makkar’s current healing process. “This was his message. He was very vocal about his journey. It is to share his wisdom that he felt as he faced mortality… One of the things he talks about is hope.” We are often bound by our own fears and fears of failing. But we can all continue to learn from the opportunities we have. So one of his goals was to help others see that it is okay to try new things and fail. Just give it a try, and focus on the good things in your life. She also stresses his other point of not fearing your death, but rather working to leave something behind that is good for humankind. Are there some things now that will cause others to remember you? If not, what can you change in your life? This book is a poignant read that is written from the point of view of someone who is facing his own mortality. The value of his words is beyond inspirational. “I hope this book becomes a wakeup call,” says Dr. Makkar “that life is short.” So, what makes you happy? Maybe now is the time for a change. Listen now to this episode for encouragement to take the necessary time to reflect on your life and your happiness to find the peace you deserve. 

Highlights from this episode:

• The importance of stepping back and reflecting on your work as a dentist
• Don’t delay in questioning potential health problems you feel you may have; early detection is critical
• Looking at that feeling of invincibility that people often have
• Dealing with the “isolation” and other complications of going through treatment during COVID-19
• How inspiring it is to hold on to hope
• The value of this book in finding peace within yourself

Resources and links mentioned: 

• Manu Dua’s book: “Life Interrupted: Dr. Dua’s Survival Guide”
• Dr. Makkar’s email: [email protected]
• Watch Laura's podcasts on YouTube:  Love Your Practice!
• Laura’s email: [email protected]
• Laura’s website: LoveYourPractice.net
• Laura’s podcast: Love Your Practice!

Laura’s Facebook pages:

•    Leadership Coach for Busy Dentists
•    Love Your Practice 
•    Laura’s personal page

Thank you so much for tuning in to this podcast! I would love it if you would share it with others and leave a review for others to see!

~ Laura