Even after such advanced medical technologies today, the moment one hears the ‘C’ word, it brings fear, shock and distress to the entire family. In December 2013, I was diagnosed with an advanced stage laryngeal cancer, and doctors were of the opinion that I need to be operated on immediately. 

I took my reports and went to Param Gurudev, who was at Parasdham in Mumbai. I showed him my reports and shared the doctor’s diagnosis. He looked at me intently for a few seconds and then said, “I don’t think there is a need for surgery at the moment. The Jain Diksha Mahotsav is coming up in February. Why don’t you join in and offer seva? We shall see later…” Saying so, he smiled and placed his hand on my hand; a touch I can’t forget even today!

My doctor tried hard to convince me to have surgery, but there was no place for a second thought in my mind. Having been with Param Gurudev for many years, I knew his words never failed. And I was determined to follow his sanket (indication). For the next few months, I took a complete break from my business and joined in to offer full-time seva in the Mahotsav. During those days, I used to be on my toes for 18 hours, yet I wouldn’t feel even the slightest pain, discomfort or fatigue. The joy of seva is indeed like an energy tonic, a selfless effort where you only strive for HIS prasannata (happiness)! 

Two and a half months passed, and after the mahotsav, Param Gurudev’s eyes fell on me one day. He said, “Pradeepbhai, you may now undergo surgery if needed…” With his blessings, I visited my doctor, who was furious with me for delaying the operation. He was of the opinion that back in December, there was still a chance to save my larynx (voice box), but now, he didn’t see any possibility. Nevertheless, my biopsy was done. To his utter disbelief and my deep conviction, there was no trace of any cancerous cells in my body. I wasn’t surprised, but only deeply thankful. That day, even the doctor’s head bowed down in reverence towards the energy of mantra sadhana. 

When I expressed my utmost gratitude to Param Gurudev, without taking the slightest credit he said, “This is the strength of seva. Seva has the power to destroy our negative karmas. The one who surrenders himself selflessly in seva, his responsibility becomes Parmatma’s responsibility!”

– Shri Pradeep ji Doshi, Mumbai