In a recent initiative that merged health care with spiritual support, Bhaktivedanta Manor’s Devotee Care Office hosted a groundbreaking Cancer Workshop. The event, which Mahimarnava Dasa orchestrated in collaboration with One Vision NPO and Macmillan Cancer Support, sought to address a growing need within the devotee community: comprehensive cancer care. Inspired by the increasing number of devotees affected by cancer, Mahimarnava led the charge in bridging the gap between spiritual guidance and practical health care, ensuring that those dealing with this life-altering disease received both emotional and medical support.

“This wasn’t just about providing information—it was about creating a space for devotees to feel supported in important aspects of their struggle, from the physical to the emotional and spiritual,” explained Mahimarnava. He emphasized that the idea for the workshop had been brewing for some time, as he witnessed many members of the community dealing with cancer in isolation, unsure of how to navigate the challenges they faced. “I realized there was a need for more structured, accessible support and workshops,” he said, “and that’s when I thought, ‘Why not bring in professionals who specialize in this?'”

The workshop, the first of its kind at Bhaktivedanta Manor, drew on the expertise of Macmillan Cancer Support Champions, a leading UK charity known for its compassionate care of cancer patients and their families. Together with One Vision NPO, a charity focused on community well-being, the workshop provided attendees with vital information about cancer care, early detection, and lifestyle adjustments that can be made. It also offered practical resources for caregivers and patients alike.

“This collaboration with One Vision NPO and Macmillan Cancer Support was key,” Mahimarnava noted. “They brought a wealth of knowledge and experience that many individuals from the spiritual community didn’t have access to before. At the same time, One Vision helped to connect the dots between spiritual care and emotional support. The goal was to create a holistic approach.”

Left to Right: Priyanka Gandhi, Champion of Macmillan Cancer Support and member of One Vision with Hemangi Radha Devi Dasi, Devotee Care Leader.

One key objective of the workshop was to break down barriers that often prevent devotees from seeking help. Mahimarnava recognized that many devotees may feel unsure about approaching external health organizations or discussing their struggles openly. “There’s sometimes a reluctance to talk about illness within spiritual communities,” he said. But addressing these health concerns doesn’t diminish one’s faith—it enhances it. By caring for the body, we allow ourselves to continue serving Krishna with a stronger mind and heart.”

The workshop’s format was designed to encourage open discussions and build a sense of community. “We had sessions where devotees could ask questions directly to the Macmillan champions,” Mahimarnava shared. “People asked about everything from early signs of cancer to how to support family members going through treatment. It was a space where devotees could voice their concerns without feeling judged.”

One attendee expressed relief after the workshop, stating, “To know there are resources out there, and to hear from others going through similar challenges, was incredibly reassuring.”

For many, this reassurance was one of the workshop’s most important outcomes. It wasn’t just about the technical details of cancer care—it was about creating a support network within the devotee community. “The emotional side of caregiving can be overwhelming,” Mahimarnava acknowledged. “We wanted people to leave the workshop knowing they’re not alone in this. There are resources, and there’s a community of people who care.”

Despite its success, the road to organizing the event wasn’t without its challenges. “Coordinating between different organizations with different approaches was a learning experience,” Mahimarnava admitted. “But the outcome made all the hard work worthwhile.” He noted that one of the key factors in the workshop’s success was the shared commitment from all parties involved—Macmillan, One Vision, and Bhaktivedanta Manor’s Devotee Care Office who worked together to create a truly comprehensive event.

The success of the Cancer Workshop has already sparked discussions about future events. The VCC is keen on expanding these health-focused workshops to include other areas of care. “Cancer is just one part of the picture. There are so many other health issues that devotees face, and we want to address them in a similar way bringing in experts, opening up dialogue, and offering resources that make a real difference.”

Looking to the future, Mahimarnava envisions a series of workshops that cover everything from mental health to chronic illnesses, always with the same holistic approach that blends spiritual wisdom with practical care. “Krishna consciousness is about caring for the soul, but we also need to care for the body and mind, especially when dealing with something as serious as cancer,” he said. “This workshop was a step in that direction—combining the best of both worlds to support devotees in a meaningful way.”

As the devotee community at Bhaktivedanta Manor continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like the Cancer Workshop remind the community of the importance of comprehensive care—care that nurtures not just the spiritual heart but the whole person. The community can look forward to more such initiatives, where compassion and wisdom come together to offer healing and hope.

“This is only the beginning,” Mahimarnava concluded, “There’s so much more we can do to support our community, and I’m excited to see where this journey goes.” Bhaktivedanta Manor is setting a new standard for how spiritual communities can respond to the complex health challenges faced by their members, ensuring that no one has to face them alone. Check out a brief video with Mahimarnava Das on ISKCON News’ Instagram. 

If you’re interested in upcoming workshops, programs, and initiatives, you can reach out to the Devotee Care Office at Bhaktivedanta Manor via email. Please also visit the Devotee Care webpage, and Facebook. You can also follow Mahimarnava Das’s Instagram.