My Activity Tracking
293
kms
My target 58kms
Walking With Purpose- 58km+ walk for Breast Cancer
Hi everyone! ❤️
For the past two years, I have taken on a walking challenge during October to support the Cancer Council and a cause that means so much to me.
In my first year, I set out to walk 57 km to support the 57 people diagnosed with breast cancer each day, and ended up walking an incredible 100 km. Last year, my goal was 58 km, and I walked over 200 km! 🚶♀️❤️
This year, though, I almost didn’t do it.
Life has been busy. Family, health, work and all the commitments that come with everyday life had left me feeling stretched, and for the first time, I found myself wondering if perhaps I should let this year go.
Something inside me was thinking about extinguishing that burning desire to fundraise for a cause so close to my heart.
Just as I reluctantly began to share at home that maybe I shouldn’t participate this year, Kabir stepped in and said:
“Hey Mum, this year, I am going to support you and support the 58 people who get diagnosed with breast cancer every day. I want to fundraise together.”
What a legend. ❤️
How could I say no to that?
I am so grateful he stepped up at exactly the right moment. His words gave me a surge of confidence and somehow crushed the negativity that had found its way into my head.
So this year, it’s not just my challenge.
It’s ours. ❤️
Together, as Cancer Krushers, Kabir and I are taking on our biggest challenge yet, walking more than 300 km throughout October to raise funds for Cancer Council.
Cancer has touched our family in many ways. In recent months, we have lost some real gems to this devastating disease — my dearest Susan Nani, Rakesh Uncle and Vikram Chacha.
And some of my greatest inspirations have been my Ammaji, Divya didi- my sister-in-law, Kanika jiji- a wonderful family friend. I continue to be inspired by their lives, their courage and the way they navigated their journeys while living with this devastating disease.
At the same time, I know and love many family members and friends who have fought cancer and come through the other side.
Their stories stay with me.
Throughout October, I’ll be sharing a little about some of the people who have inspired me, their courage, their resilience, their strength and the difference they have made in our lives. In doing so, I hope to honour those we have lost, celebrate those who have overcome cancer, and stand alongside those who are still fighting.
Because I’m sure cancer has touched each of us in some way, through our own experience, or through someone we love.
Cancer Council supports people and families affected by cancer, funds vital research, works to prevent cancer and helps people through every stage of their cancer journey. Through the funds we raise, we can play a small part in that much bigger effort.
And this year, we’re aiming for 300+ km. 👟💪
That is a BIG challenge for us; but knowing that we are doing it together makes it even more meaningful.
If you can, please support Kabir and me through our Cancer Krushers fundraising page. Every donation, big or small, will make a difference. And if donating isn't possible, sharing our page, following our journey or sending us some encouragement will mean just as much.
100 km → 200 km → 300+ km… here we go!
For the people we love.
For the ones we have lost.
For those who have fought and survived.
For those still fighting.
And for the 58 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
It’s all of us against cancer. ❤️
Are you with us?
Please donate to Cancer Krushers and help Kabir and me reach our 300+ km goal this October.
One step at a time, together. Thank you for your support! 🙏
My Updates
Day 15 to 20th October
Wednesday 21st Oct
Cancer Krushers fundraiser update between 15th and 20th October
Six days and no updates… 
We make time for the things that are important to us. And yet, I often wish there were more hours in a day! So much to do, so little time…so many thoughts, so much to share.
In the busyness of life, even the ever-positive me sometimes wonders: Did I do the right thing by taking on this challenge? Was it a good idea to agree to a catch-up? And why did I take on the additional task of baking and decorating cakes? 
But deep down, I know the answer. When I see these efforts and experiences come to fruition, and feel the love and support surrounding me, I experience the greatest joy. It gives me a renewed boost of confidence and energy to keep going, whether in this challenge or any other pursuit.
Life toh aur busy hoti hi jayegi… par mujhe cancer ke against yeh ladaai ladni hai! 
(Life will only get busier, but I want to keep fighting against this dreadful disease.)
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of decorating my nephews' birthday cakes. Although I had plenty of help with the baking and icing, I found immense joy in creating the decorations for R's and N's cake. Seeing both boys so happy with how their cakes turned out made every bit of effort worthwhile! 
Afterwards, I enjoyed a walk by myself and was delighted to find some pinecones along the way. And just like that, I was transported back in time…
While I reminisce about my grandparents quite often, I've been thinking a lot about my Ammaji (my paternal grandmother) lately.
Ammaji had survived breast cancer, but following her mastectomy and treatment, she lost a lot of her hair. She always wanted her granddaughters to have long hair, and I lived up to that expectation for as long as I can remember! But deep down, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful with all that hair.
Having witnessed the joy that wigs could bring to people experiencing hair loss due to cancer and alopecia, donating my hair became a birthday present to myself when I turned 40. It was my little way of giving back, in memory of Ammaji and Divya didi (my sister in law). I know it would have meant a great deal to Ammaji had she been alive to see it. And I hope to do it again whenever my hair reaches the appropriate length.
I admired Ammaji deeply. Despite being partially blind in one eye, she was a spectacular knitter. She was strict and disciplined, a stickler for neatness, deeply devoted to her family, wonderfully frank, articulate and incredibly generous. She had such a distinct personality, and I loved her dearly. I miss her a lot.
So...back to those pinecones and the connection with Ammaji…
As grandchildren, we had the special privilege of joining Dada on his annual summer holiday trips to the hill stations of Nainital and Mussoorie, where he would visit the LBS Academy. Sometimes Ammaji would accompany us, too.
Dada would drive us all, and on our way back, we would often stop along the road to collect pinecones and bring them home.
Ammaji would look at our little treasures and exclaim, “Kya kachra le aaye hain bachche ghar mein!” (What rubbish have the children brought home!)
(What rubbish have the children brought home!)But, of course, we had a dedicated spot in the foyer where we could decorate and display our precious pinecones. They sat alongside Dada and Ammaji's rather impressive, ever-growing seashell collection.
What seemed like ordinary little things back then have become precious memories today. And who would have thought that finding pinecones on my walks, decades later, would bring back so much of my childhood and make me feel so close to my grandparents again?
Another little walk down memory lane…Today, after an excursion with the children to our bush-tucker garden, I headed out for a lunchtime walk around Macquarie University campus. Walking in the opposite direction this time, I made my way towards one of my favourite spots, where I love the sculptures and the Aboriginal symbols carved in stone.
I spotted a cute duck family along the way, and that reminded me of excursions from a decade ago to the sports field area. So, I decided to walk a little further.
And there it was, the pine tree laden with pinecones!
I couldn't help myself. I gathered as many as my arms could carry… and stuffed a few into my pockets, too!
I always wonder why some early learning centres buy pinecones as natural resources when there are so many freely available around us. Nature really does offer us so much if we take the time to notice it.
And now, the numbers we have all been waiting for!
I am absolutely stoked to see all the love pouring in. Cancer Krushers have raised a whopping $4,440 towards our fight against cancer! How amazing is that? 
And our walking kilometres? Well, we have gone WAY beyond our original 300 km target!
As of tonight, our individual distances stand at:
Me: 150.9 km
Kabir: 101.02 km Aakriti: 84 km
Gayatri: 79 kmThat's a phenomenal 414.92 km walked together! Woo-hoo! Every kilometre, every donation, every kind message and every word of encouragement reminds me that we are not fighting this battle alone.
We are so grateful to everyone who has supported Cancer Krushers with their generosity, love, kind words, likes, hearts and cheers. Every little gesture means so much to us and keeps us going.
We have another 10 days to go, and we would love to keep the momentum going!
If you haven't donated yet and would like to support our cause, here's the link to our fundraiser:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/CancerKrushers
Come on, people, let's crush this disease together!
Day 11 to 14 update
Tuesday 20th OctCANCER KRUSHERS UPDATE, DAYS 11–14… 
HALFWAY THROUGH OCTOBER, AND LOOK AT US GO!
Today, the 15th of October, marks the halfway point of our walking challenge, and oh my God! As I sit down to look at our collective stats up to 14th Oct, I am absolutely overjoyed!
Together, the four of us have walked a whopping 278.8 km, getting so close to our 300+ km target!
Here's how we've done so far:
Aakriti: 64 km Gayatri: 52 km
Kabir: 55.27 km Bhavna: 107.3 kmAnd we've raised $3,842! 
How amazing is that? I am so happy to be doing this together, and so incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way. Your generous donations, kind words, likes, thumbs-ups, messages and blessings mean more than you know. I feel humbled by the love surrounding this little team of ours. We truly couldn't have come this far without you!
As I've walked these past few days, my thoughts have often turned to the brave women in my life who have fought cancer.
Dolly Mami, Vicky Mami and Ritu Aunty; you don't know how much you all are a source of inspiration to me.
There are moments during my walks when I experience a cramp, an ache or a feeling of heaviness. And in those moments, I find myself thinking about what someone going through cancer must endure.
The physical discomfort I experience during a walk is temporary (I hope), and I know it cannot compare to the physical pain, emotional turmoil, mental exhaustion and uncertainty that can come with a cancer diagnosis and its treatment. In all seriousness, I cannot begin to fathom the strength it takes to navigate all of this...
And it isn't just the person undergoing treatment; their loved ones, too, walk alongside them through the fear, worry and uncertainty.
It makes me admire your courage and resilience all the more. You have faced challenges that I can only begin to imagine, and I hope you know how deeply you are admired and how much you inspire me.
This challenge is my little way of turning that love, admiration and gratitude into action, by helping raise funds for research and treatment, and supporting those whose lives have been touched by cancer.
One of the photo's I'm sharing is from Gyatri's visit in August and it's Aakriti, Gayats and myself at a cafe. (Thank you chachi for the photo!) It was taken the day before Gayatri ran the Sydney Marathon.
I find so much inspiration in Gayatri. Her discipline, her ability to stay steadfast in pursuing her fitness goals, and the commitment she brings to her running are incredible. But what I admire just as much is her ability to enjoy the moment, soaking up time with friends and family while continuing to work towards those goals.
That balance is a beautiful reminder that we can be determined and disciplined in pursuing what matters to us, while still making space for the people and moments that make life special. And I admit to want just that but often struggle with the balance!
Gayatri, Aakriti and Kabir, thankyou for allt he inspiration you 3 bring to me, especially with this challenge
THE SECOND HALF… HERE WE COME! 
We're just 21.2 km away from smashing our 300 km target, and we have so much to be grateful for already. I'm sure we will crack that by today!
Every kilometre, every donation and every message of encouragement reminds me that we are stronger when we come together. Let's keep going, one step at a time, for everyone affected by this deadly horrid disease.
Thank you for walking alongside the Cancer Krushers, cheering us on and helping us make a difference. Here's a link again, to our fundraiser:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/CancerKrushers
Days 8-10 update
Tuesday 20th OctCancer Krushers update: Days 8–10…
I know I’ve been a little MIA with my updates, but I find that putting these reflections into words takes time. For me, this challenge has never been just about the kilometers we cover or the dollars we raise. Every walk is an opportunity to pause, be present, remember the people whose lives have been touched by cancer, and reflect on the connections I shared with them and their families.
For those we have sadly lost, it is also a chance to celebrate their lives, remember what made them special, and draw inspiration from the legacies they leave behind.
So, on the 8th, 9th and 10th of October, I dedicated my walks to three people who hold a special place in my memories: Kanika Jiji, Nalini Mausi and Vikram Chacha.
Here are a few little glimpses into the lives of these beautiful souls who left their mark on mine.
(Deep breath…)
Kanika Jiji…She was like a breath of fresh air, someone I admired immensely for her courage, deep-rooted cultural and family values, and the way she lived by example, putting love, peace and family first. She was the perfect balance of traditional and modern, had a wonderful sense of humour, and spoke eloquently and confidently.
Thanks to her gentle nudge, I had the wonderful opportunity to emcee one of my first Mathur family functions in Sydney. Although I was nervous at first and felt the pressure of being ‘new’ (and possibly being judged!), she made it all seem so easy. She encouraged me not only to compere but also to sing and participate in the program.
Her encouragement didn’t stop there. She always supported my passion for baking and cake decorating, taking a personal interest in the details and acknowledging the effort I put in. She made the efforts ‘seen’ and ‘admired’, and that meant so much to me.
One of my favourite memories is a phone conversation with her when she shared the news of Saurabh’s marriage to Aakriti. I was out shopping at Myer’s, and she was super excited, describing all the details that had been finalised, what was still to come, the wedding in India, and just how thrilled she was about becoming a sister-in-law! We talked non-stop. I kept walking around in circles, getting absolutely no shopping done, while shaking my head at the Myer’s sales ladies who kept wondering if I needed help. I suspect they really just wanted me to take the conversation outside!
Kanika Jiji always held her head high and remained positive, even through her cancer treatments. Her courage and the way she carried herself are memories I will always cherish.
My dearest Nalini Masi…As the relationship itself suggests, a 'mausi' or 'masi' is ‘ma jaisi’ that translates to ‘like mum’. Nalini Mausi and Mum had been best buddies since Class One! Mum has shared so many stories about their childhood shenanigans over the years.
I remember meeting Nalini Mausi only decades later, in the early 2000s. We were visiting Boston, and she picked us up and drove us to her home. From the moment we connected, there was such warmth and comfort in her presence. I then learnt about her work, Nalini’s Creations, wedding planning, shopping and travelling for it all. It sounded like a dream job! Of course, I can only imagine the enormous amount of hard work that went on behind the scenes.
Over the years, I also learnt about her commitment to causes close to her heart. I would see her posts about donation drives, fundraisers and articles she shared to raise awareness. She truly lived the idea of giving back to society, living a life of purpose, and being and helping others be the change.
Vikram Chacha…I will always remember him as the fun-loving, jovial, amicable, party-loving uncle!
Growing up, I always looked forward to visiting Vikram Chacha and the family at Mathura Road. They hosted the best parties, not just because of the delicious food or the grandeur of that home, but because of the warmth, rich conversations, family catch-ups and time spent with the cousin crew.
Vikram Chacha would always come looking for the ‘bachcha party’, making sure everyone was having a good time and was well looked after. He took a genuine interest in our lives, asking about our studies, work, aspirations and more.
I remember visiting their home with Paavan sometime after our wedding. While Paavan was amused by their commercial-sized kitchen, Vikram Chacha was equally amused by my rather ‘satte-pe-satta’ account of life in Sydney with the three men in the house, who had led a very bachelor-like existence before my ‘invasion’!
Even when I was working for a not-for-profit organisation in Mumbai, I remember a conversation with him about work during one of my visits to Delhi. We were discussing daycare centres supporting undernourished children, and I was ranting about rising prices, food costs and the headache of justifying every expense to funders. In his typically casual manner, Vikram Chacha simply said, “paise mein de deta hu! (I’ll give the money)”. While that wasn’t really the point of the conversation, his spontaneous response said so much about his generous spirit and his instinct to help. Vikram Chacha had a wonderful way of cheering people on and supporting them in their endeavours, reminding us how much kindness and encouragement can mean along the way.
---
I’ve shared just a tiny fraction of the stories of these wonderful people who touched my life in meaningful ways, but whose lives were cut short by cancer.
I feel incredibly blessed to have known them, to have been inspired by them, and to have learnt from the ways they loved, cared for others and lived their lives. Their stories are a reminder that the impact of a person’s life extends far beyond the years they are given.
It is remembering them, celebrating their strengths and recognizing the legacies they leave behind that motivates me to keep fundraising and fighting for a better future, one where cancer no longer takes so much from so many.
And now, a little update from our Cancer Krushers team! 
Kabir has taken this challenge so seriously! Yesterday, he covered nearly 10 km, most of it at his cricket game, where he bowled two maiden overs and got two wickets. Seeing his stats motivates me even more and gets me pumped to keep going!
Together, we covered another 41 km in just three days.
Here are our October stats so far:
Bhavna: 77.82 km Kabir: 36.91 km Aakriti: 46 kmTogether, we’ve walked 160.73 km towards a cancer-free future! Yay! 
And our fundraising efforts have reached $3,642! We feel so fortunate and blessed to have so much love and support behind Cancer Krushers.
Thank you for every donation, every encouraging message, every share and every little gesture of support. It all means so much to us.
Cancer has touched so many lives, and no one should have to face this fight alone. We walk for those we have lost, for those still fighting, for their families, and for the generations to come. We keep fundraising because research, better treatments and early detection matter. We keep showing up because every contribution, however small, can help make a difference.
This is bigger than any one of us. It’s all of us against cancer.
Please keep pouring in your love and support for Cancer Krushers. If you haven’t already, here’s the link to our fundraiser:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/CancerKrushers
Wishing everyone a wonderful and blessed week ahead.
Day 6 and 7 update
Tuesday 20th OctCancer Krusher Updates Day 6 and 7:
It’s always hard to sit down and write an update when life feels stretched in every direction. But I’m especially grateful this year to have a team, and with all of you supporting team Cancer Krushers, motivates me to keep challenging myself and, more importantly, to stay rooted in why we are doing this: to support the fight against cancer.
As I’ve shared before, I think of the many family members, friends and acquaintances whose lives have been changed or cut short by cancer, those we have lost, those who have endured its wrath, and those who continue to fight. Today, I want to share a little about two beautiful souls from Paavan’s family, his cousin Vipul and his mum, my aunt-in-law, Nisha Chachi.
I never had the chance to meet Vipul. Cancer took him at just 17. But I’ve heard so many stories from Dad about this fun-loving, jovial, sharp and intelligent boy. He practically idolized Paavan and Raghav, his older Aussie cousins, and loved every moment they spent together when they visited India. It was during one of those playful times that a sharp pain in his knee eventually led to a cancer diagnosis. Vipul was only 15 then. Despite surgeries and the best care possible, the cancer returned, and he eventually lost his battle. Everyone in the family was so certain this bright young boy would go on to achieve wonderful things in life. He had so much life ahead of him. Gone far too soon.
I remember Nisha Chachi as a simple, beautiful, gentle, quiet and deeply family-oriented person, incredibly affectionate and giving. She was perhaps the quietest person I knew, and I never heard her complain or grumble. Around nine years ago, she was diagnosed with cancer. By the time it was found, it was already Stage 4. I’ve heard from Dad and the family about the immense pain she endured, to the point where even the gentlest touch could become unbearable. I cannot begin to imagine what she went through- physically, emotionally or mentally. Eventually, the cancer took her too.
A mother and her son. Two beautiful souls, gone far too soon to the same cruel disease.
Cancer truly doesn’t play favourites. It doesn’t care about age, personality, dreams, family or how much someone is loved. And despite the extraordinary progress made in research, treatment and care, there is still so much we don’t understand and so much more we need to do.
That is why we keep walking. We keep fundraising. We keep talking about it. And we keep showing up. Every kilometer we walk and every dollar we raise is a small part of a much bigger fight, one that needs all of us.
I am so incredibly grateful that I’m not walking this journey alone. Thank you to everyone supporting Cancer Krushers; for your generous donations, encouraging words, love and reminding us this fight belongs to all of us.
Your support is already making this journey so meaningful.
$3,533 raised towards our fundraising goal Kabir: 20.13 km walked between 3rd & 7th October Aakriti: 29 km walked in just four days Bhavna: 53 km walked in the first week of OctoberTogether, we’ve already crossed 100 km of walking, and we’re only one week in!
Every step carries a little bit of hope, determination and love. And with all of you walking alongside us in your own way, we’ll keep pushing forward.
Here’s a link to our CancerKrushers fundraising page:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/CancerKrushers
Day 4 and 5 update
Tuesday 20th OctDay 4 and 5 update from Cancer Krushers: this is a very long read!
First of all, so happy to now have a team of 4: Bhavna, Kabir, Gayatri and now Aakriti by our side! Super stoked to have her support. The fight against cancer is close to Aakriti's heart, and it's awesome to have our team getting bigger and supporting each other in our Cancer Council fundraising efforts for breast cancer research and treatment.
Go Cancer Krushers team!
So, on the morning of 4th October... while sorting snacks and treats (yes, school holiday dilemma!), I found a fortune cookie I'd brought home from our visit to a Chinese restaurant nearby. I thought I might find some inspiration for the day from here.
The message read: “You need to relax, watch a movie!”
It's like the universe was in agreement: just chill, Bhavna.
So I did.
I got most of my steps through house cleaning and chores in the morning, followed by a big 2–3 week grocery run, and the rest on a late-night walk. (Reminder to self: avoid very late-night walks, as I realised from last year's fundraiser that they are detrimental to my wellbeing the following day, with an exponential increase in my caffeine intake!)
Kabir's intermittent jogs helped him clock in 3.46 km.
Today, 5th October, I walked mostly in the afternoon amidst a light drizzle at a park, while Kabir built up his steps practising his bowling. By evening, I was determined to go past 10K steps and was delighted to finish the day at nearly 13,500 steps, that equals 9.2 km. Kabir's steps were over 8,300, nearly 4.5 km.
Aakriti has clocked in 14 km over these 2 days.
Together, we have 38.61 km in 2 days. WOWZA!!!
And while all of this walking is about supporting Cancer Council, these last couple of days have also carried another very personal meaning for me.
As some of you know, we lost my dearest Susan Nani to a very aggressive lymphoma on the 21st of September. This has been a colossal loss and hurt for my family, because of just how wonderful an individual she was.
And it's no wonder, then, that my thoughts have turned so often to my beloved Susan Nani.
I shared in my tribute to her, a few days back: I was always in awe of my American Nani, her beautiful dresses and coats, her love of blue and green, her elegance, and all the little details that made her so wonderfully her. I think my love for Rajasthani prints, bandhej and blue pottery grew even stronger because of her.
There was always so much excitement whenever Susan Nani and Pattoo Nana came to India. Everything was a big deal, with the best of arrangements made for their trip. Susan Nani had her own special way of ensuring things were done just right, consulting my father for all itineraries!
I have witnessed the love and regard Susan Nani and Pattoo Nana always had for all the family. They have both been incredibly generous, caring and loving, always giving so much of themselves to others. Their kindness has touched the lives of the entire Rai family and so many others; it is little wonder they are so deeply loved, respected and cherished. Even last year, as they supported my fundraiser, their generosity and encouragement meant so much to me personally.
I loved, and still love their home in NY. I always remember it as a sprawling but very warm and welcoming home, organised beautifully by Susan Nani. The gorgeous wallpapers, a colour for each room, the little notes in Nani's impeccable writing, the endless framed photographs, and of course, the wedding cake she kept in the freezer for years!
Nani had her rules too, like never dragging a suitcase across the wooden floors, and no hugs or handshakes if you had a sniffle!
Her little quirks, like her love of numerical coincidences, the time 11:11, or a fun date or number combination; still make me just as excited and if I can, I take pictures or screenshots of these. Even Kabir and Ananya have picked up this habit and will shout out in excitement, “It’s Susan Nani time!” or “Susan Nani would love that!”
We all have those special people whose opinions matter just a little more; people we admire, who we hold in the highest regard, and whose words stay with us long after they are spoken.
Susan Nani was one of those people for me.
As I think of Susan Nani- as I reflect on the eulogies at her funeral service- as I relive memories- I feel grateful and honoured for all of the moments spent together with her, for all her love towards me and the family, her advice and opinions, the video chats on occasions… and all the little things that made her so wonderfully her.
And then yesterday, something happened that made me stop for a moment. I was driving to the shops and turned on Smooth FM. I heard the last bit of the chorus of Savage Garden's Affirmation:
“I believe you don't know what you've got until you say goodbye...” Immediate thoughts wow. A song from 1999 Our first visit to Susan Nani and Pattoo Nana's was in 1998. The last was in 2012.
On that last visit, I remember complimenting her perfume. It was Christian Dior's Poison. She let me keep the bottle. And in that same visit, I don't remember how our conversations led to her gifting us her very old cheese grater. Her mother had given it to her many decades ago.
And in that same visit, I don't remember how our conversations led to her gifting us her very old cheese grater. Her mother had given it to her many decades ago.And just then I thought, okay, I'll make risotto this week and buy a block of Parmesan so I can use the grater. Because, in the literal sense, I had forgotten I had this grater. And well...you don't know what you've got until you say goodbye.
*sigh*
Okay....there was the butterfly...read on...
The other day, I stepped out into our backyard area with Paavan to check on the progress of our construction work. Even while talking to Paavan in the context of the build, my thoughts were going back to Susan Nani. Then suddenly, we spotted this beautiful blue-green-turquoise-ish butterfly just fluttering around, before resting on the rubble. Now, it didn't have to mean ANYthing. Or it could mean everything.
Like a sign from the universe? I don't know. A quick Google search revealed it was a common bluebottle butterfly. But I have never spotted one in our backyard before. Ever.
But in that moment, I just felt happy, and a sense of peace overcame me. It was simply beautiful.
As I walk this October, I’m carrying all of these memories and that love with me.
These walks aren’t just about the step counts and kilometers, but a way of carrying the people I love with me, honouring their lives, and turning that love into something that can help others.
I hope to honour my dear Susan Nani's legacy of love, of putting family first, of being generous, caring and proud.
Susan Nani, this walk is also in your loving memory.
Please keep the love coming for Cancer Krushers and support our fundraiser. It's all of us against this horrible disease. Thank you for your continued support, love and blessings.
Here's the link to our fundraiser:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/CancerKrushers
Day 3 update
Thursday 15th Oct3rd October2026, Day 3 Update from CANCER KRUSHERS...
Feeling SO pumped writing today’s update!
For starters, I’m thrilled that Kabir now has a pedometer watch! Which means we can finally track his steps properly and add them to our overall distance. Because, let’s be honest… 300 km is no easy task! 
Which means we can finally track his steps properly and add them to our overall distance. Because, let’s be honest… 300 km is no easy task! And then came the BEST news… (drumroll!) The newest member of the Cancer Krushers is NONE OTHER THAN GAYATRI! My dearest cousin sister, marathon runner extraordinaire, is joining us all the way from India! 
My dearest cousin sister, marathon runner extraordinaire, is joining us all the way from India! Gayatri was here for the Sydney Marathon at the end of August. And what a legend! She was the 2nd Indian female finishing in an incredible 3 hours 27 minutes! 
What a lenged! What an inspiration!
What a lenged! What an inspiration!I loved every moment of having her here with us, and there's much to learn and be inspired by, from watching her discipline around the marathon, to the bib collection, pre- and post-race routines, nutrition, recovery… and of course, all her encouragement for me!
Whether it was showing me how to use my roller correctly or nudging me along on my nutrition journey, Gayats was always there cheering me on. Gayats, love you heaps! And now she’s going to be running and helping us smash our targets from India! How amazing is that?
or nudging me along on my nutrition journey, Gayats was always there cheering me on. Gayats, love you heaps! And now she’s going to be running and helping us smash our targets from India! How amazing is that? So people… keep up the support! 
Your likes, 
thumbs-ups, 
kind words, 
generous donations and, above all, your blessings-theyall add up!
Your likes, thumbs-ups, kind words, generous donations and, above all, your blessings-theyall add up!YESTERDAY'S WALK....As promised to the children, we went to the pool. I took the opportunity to get some steps in the water while exercising too. Walking/ cycling in water was hard! But it felt so good. And if that wasn't enough, once we got home, with the cousin crew visiting, they ALL wanted to join me for a walk before dinner. How sweet and encouraging is that?
But it felt so good. And if that wasn't enough, once we got home, with the cousin crew visiting, they ALL wanted to join me for a walk before dinner. How sweet and encouraging is that? Kabir was especially excited because his new watch was charged and ready to go! He ran a few rounds of the street, while I enjoyed a lovely walk with him soon afetr, just the two of us. (I completely forgot to take a photo together!)
WALKING FOR THOSE WE MISS...
While walking, I’ve been thinking about so many wonderful people we have lost to cancer...
My thoughts have been particularly with our dearest Madhuben.
Madhuben was technically the domestic help who cared for my darling Mini Bhua and Ratan phuphaji and family in Gujarat, India, but she was much more than that. She was a carer, a protector, a dependable presence and family. She was petite in size, but with a VERY loud voice! She was determined, strong and had a tough exterior, but underneath was warmth and a mushy heart. And she was always smiling.
She was determined, strong and had a tough exterior, but underneath was warmth and a mushy heart. And she was always smiling. When I was studying at university in Gujarat, I spent many years frequently visiting Mini Bhua and Ratan Phuphaji’s home, as my local guardians. Madhuben looked after me too as she did for Pri ji and Mayank dada and her own girls.
She was incredibly proud, fiercely capable and super efficient. I mean… she could speed-clean the entire home in 30 minutes! And she had a solution for nearly everything, including rescuing us from those dreaded lice episodes brought home from hostel! (Yuck! TMI)
I have such fond memories of the conversations we shared over those five years. So it was heartbreaking to hear about her cancer diagnosis, and even more heartbreaking to lose her to it.
I often wish we could have cared for her and somehow 'fixed' things for her, just as she had always found a way to fix things for everyone else. We loved you, Madhuben.
This walk is also in your loving memory.
Look at us now…
23.4 km already walked! $2,500+ raised! 3 Cancer Krushers!
300 km target!We’re already halfway to our fundraising goal!
So please keep the love coming, we are so grateful!
And Gayats…thank you for joining us and making this team stronger!
Cancer Krushers, now a trio!
Here’s our fundraiser page:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/cancerkrushers
Day 2 update
Thursday 15th Oct2nd October- Day 2 update:
My evening walk didn’t quite go as planned, I completely forgot that Kabir had cricket coaching!
Ananya joined me for part of the walk, and we enjoyed the lovely cool breeze, until the rain arrived! She promptly scuttled off inside, while I managed a few more rounds and get myself past the 10,000-step mark for the day. (Yay!)
My lunchtime walk was a little more adventurous.
Firstly, I was feeling rather fabulous in my new lemon earrings 
, gifted to me that very morning by my dear colleague, Dominique. It was actually her farewell, yet somehow she was the one giving me presents, along with a beautiful bouquet of native blooms. Thank you Dominique!
, gifted to me that very morning by my dear colleague, Dominique. It was actually her farewell, yet somehow she was the one giving me presents, along with a beautiful bouquet of native blooms. Thank you Dominique!Secondly, I was excited to explore the route to the Bush Tucker Garden on campus, as we’ll be visiting it soon with my daycare children. This garden features a range of native plants, including some traditionally used for food and medicine by the Darug and other Indigenous peoples. I was particularly awestruck by the native ginger plant; the one growing in our backyard is comparitively rather malnourished!
I also found myself standing underneath the shade of a beautiful macadamia tree… sadly, without a single macadamia in sight!
The garden didn’t quite blow my mind, perhaps because I had seen some photos earlier, and built up a perfect picture in my head. But it did give me a lovely little reminder:
Everything grows in its own time and in its own season. 
Walking back to work, I noticed all the relatively new construction around campus and cut across through a smaller park. This took me back to 2019, when we had brought our then, cohort of children there on a picnic excursion. I vividly remember the children hanging from the almost parallel branches of a tree. Such fun! Now 7 years later, I stood beneath that same tree, and my arms could barely reach the branches! 
Ironically, compared with the Bush Tucker Garden, the growth here seemed to have happened at a much faster rate!
But then came the slightly sadder thought…
I couldn’t help thinking about how tumours, too, can grow and spread at very different rates. It made me wonder, once again: How do we stop this? How do we control this monster of a disease?
And that brought me back to why we are doing this.
I feel incredibly grateful for all the people who worked and continue to work relentlessly to fight cancer through research, medicine, prevention, treatment, support etc.
And I am doubly grateful for all of YOU who are supporting our Cancer Krushers fundraiser for Cancer Council, supporting Breast Cancer research. Your generosity, encouragement and kind words for Kabir and me mean more than you know.
As of yesterday, I had walked 7.7 km more towards our 300+ km challenge.
Funds raised: $1889 Woo-hoo!
We have received two anonymous donations. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for the generosity, kind words and blessings
Thank you for believing in what we are doing, for supporting this cause and for cheering us on.
Here's the link to our fund raiser. Please keep cheering us on!
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/cancerkrushers
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Day 1 of the challenge
Thursday 15th OctDAY 1 of Cancer Krushing...
$1,153 raised!!
Thank you to all friends, family and colleagues for the overwhelming warmth and support for the fundraiser and all the love for Kabir! I was so pumped for my first lunch time walk. Covered 5.7km yesterday, not too bad for a start. The campus was quiet and I thoroughly enjoyed the spring blooms. Will take photos in future walks (reminder to self: free up storage on the phone!)
Will walk with Kabir this evening after work for our first Cancer Krusher walk together. 
Keep cheering us on! Have a lovely blessed day everyone!
Here's the link for our fundraiser:
https://www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/cancerkrushers
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Thank you to my supporters
$269.13
Sandeep Mathur
$263.13
Bhavna Mathur
$114.79
Lenore O'connor
$61.36
Rae
You are an inspiration and motivator. Your persistence and commitment to this cause and your walk is beyond admirable especially considering your busy life. Congratulations to you and Kabir and your Team.
$61.36
Adi
Good luck Bhavna. What a worthy cause.
$61.36
Sanjay
Well done Bhavna
$55.95
Shagufta
Well done Bhavna
$23.81
William & Arthur
Best of luck xx
$11.92
Lois Tang
Hi Bhavna, Just a small amount of donation adding to the fundraise. I see how amazing this journey has been for you and especially with Kabir’s motivation and walked along with you this year. It is very meaningful and I don’t think many people can continue to make that commitment with what is happening around you and your family, work, kids and everything else, and without finding excuses and give up. Well done and proud of you! Hope you will achieve your targeted goal this year! Lois
Cancer Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We pay our respects to the elders past and present and extend that respect to all other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Cancer Council NSW is registered with the Australian Taxation Office as an Income tax Exempt Charity. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
Go Bhavna and Kabir! You can do it!💕