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“Over the last six years, I’d examined scores of such scans, on the off chance that some
procedure might benefit the patient. But this scan was different: it was my own. “ While “When
Breath Becomes Air” has been on my reading list for a while, I've been contemplating on
whether I should read the book or not because I wasn’t sure if I was prepared for the impact the
memoir might have on me because I knew from the blurb that there would be a sad ending. Now
that I’ve finished it, I regret not reading it sooner.

In the first half of the book, Paul reflects on his childhood, education, and the pivotal moments in
his life that directed him into becoming a doctor. He details how he has spent most of his life
driven by a persistent quest for knowledge on a variety of subjects from philosophy and ethics to
science and literature. Upon finally deciding to pursue a career in neurology, he aimed to not just
treat patients but to deeply connect with them, providing guidance to both them and their loved
ones as they navigate any changes in their lives after a diagnosis, injury or operation.
In the second half of the book, Paul is at the peak of his career when he is diagnosed with Stage
IV metabolic lung cancer at 36. His life underwent a sudden change as he went from a physician
to a patient, a difficult transistion especially for someone who had been so involved in patient
care.
As he grapples with thoughts of his unsteady future, he reflects on how to meaningfully make the
most of his time. Is it okay for him to have a child as his own life fades? What gives life
meaning, and how can that meaning be measured? Does he owe any obligations to the people
around him? Should he continue working in a field that has given him the opportunity to touch
the lives of so many?
One thing I loved about this memoir was how his passion for literature and language was evident
in his writing. I particularly loved his lyricism and his quotes left such a deep impression on me.
An aspect of the book that is worth mentioning is his perspective on the healthcare system and
medicine. I loved how he wrote about the importance of compassion in medicine and the lasting
impact it has. However, one critique I have is that I felt like he glorified overworking in the
medical field, which was concerning given the alarmingingly high rates of mental health issues
and suicides among those in the field..

Overall, the memoir was a short and memorable read that will stay with readers long after
they’ve finished it. I would highly recommend it for everyone, as its well-crafted writing and
poignant subject matter make it a universal and enjoyable read, with valuable lessons to be
learned by all.

Check out When Breath Becomes Air from NBPL!