By Roshan Murugappan
Close your eyes and imagine this: what would you do if your life was about to end just as it was beginning? Your life was reaching a peak you had dreamed of for years, only for it to be taken away by a setback you never expected. For neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi, this question became a reality when he was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer at the age of thirty-six, just as he was rising as a prominent neurosurgeon.
Kalanithi’s memoir, When Breath Becomes Air, follows his journey from a young boy in Arizona to a dedicated neurosurgeon, and ultimately to a reflective patient and father facing terminal lung cancer at the age of thirty-six. As he confronts his illness, Kalanithi reflects on his journey into medicine and his relationships with both his loved ones and his patients, while continually asking the question: what truly makes life meaningful? He recounts many situations, each with its own lesson, and shows how these experiences shaped him to become a better person and doctor.
Beyond its powerful story, When Breath Becomes Air offers several meaningful lessons that resonate strongly with young readers navigating their own futures.
Value your time
Kalanithi’s sudden diagnosis illustrates how unpredictable life can be. Many assume they have decades to pursue their goals and achieve their dreams, planning years ahead and looking towards the future. However, Kalanithi’s memoir reminds readers that time is never guaranteed. For teenagers caught up in exams, commitments and everyday stress, the book offers a fresh perspective on life: appreciate the small moments and cherish your loved ones.
Life is more than just seeking out physical possessions
Throughout his memoir, Kalanithi reflects on how wealth, status, and awards hold little importance in the face of mortality. Instead, it is the relationships we form, the impact we have on those around us, and the lives we lead that truly define us. In a world where teenagers are often focused on material possessions rather than building character, Kalanithi’s book reminds us that fulfillment comes from our connections with others rather than what we own.
Stay strong in the face of uncertainty
Despite facing a terminal illness, Kalanithi showed great resilience in the face of death and uncertainty. He returned to work as a surgeon, taking on grueling surgeries despite his illness, continued writing his book in the final months of his life, and chose to have a child with his wife. For young readers navigating periods of uncertainty – whether that be choosing VCE subjects or deciding on a career pathway – Kalanithi reminds us to remain strong and resilient when faced with challenges.
When Breath Becomes Air is a reflection on life, death, purpose and what it means to truly live a good life. Although the memoir deals with serious themes, it is highly relevant for young people. At a stage in life when many teenagers are at a crossroads and must make important decisions about their future, Kalanithi reminds us to reflect on what truly matters. Throughout his honest reflections, he reminds us that life is not determined by its length, but by the meaning we create within it!
