As I bid farewell to 2024, I find myself reflecting on a year that was as challenging as it was transformative. I’ve been waiting for the close of this chapter, hoping for relief and renewal. Yet, in the face of trials, I’ve discovered powerful tools to navigate the storm—walking meditation, inspiring podcasts, the unwavering support of family, staying engaged in meaningful work, and savoring life’s smaller joys.
If you haven’t yet explored The Ranveer Show, I encourage you to watch at least one episode. A particularly impactful conversation features Gaur Gopal Das, who beautifully interprets the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings on loss and impermanence. He explains how this timeless text encourages us to focus on our duties without attachment to outcomes, even in moments of grief. This perspective resonated deeply with me, reminding me that life isn’t just happy or sad—it’s a tapestry woven with moments that shape us.
Some days are bright and easy, filling us with joy. 🌞
Other days are cloudy and tough, testing our resolve. 🌧️
But every moment—whether joyful or challenging—offers growth and lessons.
For me, 2024 began with immense loss. Saying goodbye to my dear father was one of the hardest experiences of my life. Yet, I am profoundly grateful that I could be by his side in his final days. This journey taught me courage, the strength to support my family, and the profound wisdom of letting go.
Through my grief, I found solace in a truth that transcends the physical: my father’s soul, eternal and unchanging, lives on. He wasn’t just a father, husband, and grandfather—he was a remarkable spirit, a guiding light whose essence cannot be confined by time or space. I carry immense gratitude for having known him, and I trust that our souls will meet again when the time is right.
In his honor, we continue to carry forward his legacy with unwavering determination, deeply rooted in the values of compassion and service instilled in us by our parents. My mother began her remarkable journey here in the USA with the World Health Organization, conducting research on Alzheimer’s and dementia. Her work revealed the critical impact of these illnesses on language skills—often one of the first abilities to decline. Recognizing this gap, she took the initiative to train numerous South Asian aides, providing culturally sensitive care and support to hundreds of families since 1985. We now have made this a more thriving business and poured our hearts into creating a home health care company—a venture dedicated to helping the elderly receive personalized care tailored to their unique needs. This mission goes beyond just providing services; it’s about preserving dignity, fostering independence, and ensuring a better quality of life for our aging community.
Our journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been deeply rewarding. Together, we have worked tirelessly to secure the necessary licensing and achieve Medicaid approvals in several states. Additionally, we’ve developed the capacity to handle a wide range of billing codes required for long-term care insurance. Currently, we are in the final stages of obtaining ODP (Office of Developmental Programs) approval in Pennsylvania, which will allow us to expand our reach and services further.
We’re excited about the potential for growth and the positive impact we can have. However, we can’t do it alone—we need your support. If you know anyone in need of home health care services, please consider referring them to us. Every recommendation helps us connect with families who could benefit from compassionate, professional care.
Feel free to share my email, manisha@helpwithmomdad.com, and direct them to our website, www.helpwithmomdad.com. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of our journey!
My venture, WhoozCooking, continues to hold a special place in my heart. While it’s currently adapting, we’ve launched www.whoozcookingmeals.com for international students at major universities and are exploring catering and home cook services. Interestingly, our experience in the food industry has proven helpful in the health care space as well. ’ve always been drawn to the nourishing essence of food, and this connection aligns seamlessly with our home health care mission—offering comforting meals that bring warmth and care to the elderly and the youth. After all, food often serves as the path to both the heart and a sense of comfort.
Our kids have also had a remarkable year:
- Milan, a senior at The Haverford School, has excelled in robotics, mock trial, and his non-profit food4philly. He’s traveled to Morocco and continues to make us proud as we eagerly await news about his university placement.
- Ayush, in 10th grade at The Haverford School, balances soccer for both his school and a private league with writing for the school newspaper and participating in various clubs.
- Avnie, in 6th grade at Agnes Irwin School, plays soccer for the JV team, loves singing (though we’re still nudging her toward lessons), and is a devoted Taylor Swift fan who adores all things Sephora.
- This year, we welcomed the newest member of our family, our adorable Golden Doodle puppy, Burnett (named after the street we loved most in Wellesley, our home town) —lovingly nicknamed “Bernie.” She has brought boundless joy into our lives, and we can’t get enough of her playful energy and sweet nature. Whether we’re playing with her or showering her with affection, Bernie has quickly become the heart of our home. 🐾❤️
Atul and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary this November by renewing our vows in a beautiful ceremony officiated by an Acharya from New York. Surrounded by our cherished family and friends, we felt deeply blessed. The photos from the day, which you can see below, capture the magic of the occasion perfectly. Atul went the extra mile by arranging fresh flower garlands for both of us, and to my amazement, I was able to fit into my original wedding lengha!
To end the year, we enjoyed a family weekend in New York, catching Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway—a magical experience we highly recommend!
As 2025 begins, I embrace it with hope, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to live fully, love deeply, and find purpose in every moment. Here’s to a year of healing, growth, and endless possibilities. 🌟
Varma Family Chronicles 