When Priyanka Pandya was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, her world shifted overnight.
A devoted teacher, children’s life coach, and mother of two young daughters, Priyanka faced an unimaginable challenge—navigating her illness while raising her girls, who were just 4 and 2 at the time. But instead of shielding them from the harsh reality, she chose to open up through gentle, honest conversations. She answered their questions, addressed their fears, and created a space where they could express their emotions freely.
This experience inspired Priyanka to write ‘When Mummy Had Cancer’, a heartfelt picture book that helps families talk about illness in an age-appropriate way. Told through the innocent eyes of a young girl, the book captures the emotional rollercoaster that children experience when a parent is unwell. It’s more than just a story—it’s a tool that empowers families to have honest, supportive conversations about difficult topics.
Priyanka’s mission to help families navigate emotional challenges has gained national attention. Her book was recently featured by the BBC, where her story resonated with countless families facing similar journeys. She was also honoured with an invitation to 10 Downing Street to celebrate International Women’s Day with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer —a recognition of her unwavering commitment to creating safe spaces for children to process complex emotions.
But Priyanka’s work goes beyond her book.
As a certified children’s life coach, she now dedicates her time to supporting families through 1:1 coaching sessions and school workshops. Through her practice, Priyanka Pandya Life Coach (priyankapandyalifecoach.com), she helps children develop emotional resilience, manage anxiety, and build confidence to express themselves. Her approach equips both children and parents with the tools they need to navigate life’s toughest moments together.
For Priyanka, this journey is deeply personal. She believes that cancer is not a taboo subject, and her work aims to break the silence surrounding illness, encouraging families to have open, honest conversations that strengthen emotional bonds.
Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, meaningful change begins with a conversation—and sometimes, that conversation starts with a story.
To learn more about Priyanka’s work or to explore ways to collaborate, visit priyankapandyalifecoach.com.
Follow Priyanka’s journey on Instagram: @priyankapandya.lifecoach