Deepa Halaharvi, a breast surgeon with OhioHealth and a breast cancer survivor, has turned to writing as a means of processing personal grief. Her memoir, "Their Legacy, Their Light She Carries," serves as a tribute to her parents and the values they instilled in her. Dr. Halaharvi's mother passed away last year, following the death of her father ten years prior. This loss prompted her to document stories about her parents for her children, which evolved into a therapeutic memoir.
Dr. Halaharvi immigrated from India to the United States at age 16 with her family. Her parents' dedication to hard work and service significantly influenced her life and career. Her father's advice, "Whatever you do, do it well," remained with her through challenging times, including caring for him after he suffered a stroke.
The memoir is not only a personal narrative but also an homage to immigrant families and women who navigate new environments while shaping their children's futures. It offers insights for medical professionals, caregivers, and patients dealing with illness and healing.
In honor of her parents, Dr. Halaharvi established a nonprofit named Ish and Savi to provide educational scholarships for underserved communities. Additionally, she hosts "The Breast Cancer Podcast," which has been downloaded in over 130 countries. She is organizing an empowerment event titled "She Rise, We Rise Together" in November featuring a survivor-led fashion show.
Dr. Halaharvi emphasizes the importance of using one's experiences to help others: “to educate, to empower and to serve.” Despite the challenges of writing as a physician, she completed the book by dedicating early morning hours to the task.
"Their Legacy, Their Light She Carries: A Breast Surgeon’s Mission to Serve and Inspire Hope" is available on Amazon.com.