This cancer survivor lives life king size

(##include msid=43376741,type=11##)CHANDIGARH: Her spunk would put many a young women to shame. At 68, DrBirinder Kaur Pannu''s life is a kaleidoscope of varied hues, all equallybeautiful. This retired physiologist, who underwent 12 surgeries in her battleagainst cancer, is now looking after four physiotherapy centres in the city. Sheis also a fulltime grandm o t h e r , mother a n d w i f e , b u t i n d s thetime to pursue her p a s -sions."I love writing poetry. Threeanthologies of Urdu poems have already been published and one in Punjabi is onits way," she says with a child-like glint in the eye. "I write poetry tocommunicate with myself. But its very fulfilling to write and be appreciated forit," she shares. Birinder''s penchant for Urdu poetry found more meaningafter she got a postgraduation degree in Urdu just before retirement. "Poetry inoil paints is another passion but I have not been able to give it much time oflate. But I soon will," she tells.It is Birinder''s never-saydieattitude that has helped her s a i l through life. "I h a v e had my share ofups and d owns but my faith in God and positivism helped me through. I sufferedfrom cancer but did not let it bog me down. Today, I am back on my feet with thegrace of God, my will power and positivism," she smiles. My positivism helps meenjoy life to the hilt, adds the charming Birinder."I am passionateabout reciting poems in mushairas but literature also interests me. I havewritten short stories as well. Short stories deal with life''s conflicts in awonderful way," she says.That''s not all. Birinder is alsoenthusiastic about singing and playing the sitar. The feisty sexagenarian alsohas a green thumb. "My plants are my babies," she gushes. Stitching andembroidery are Birinder''s other interests. "I usually design and embroider myoutfits. My friends can''t help rave over them," she says. So where does herfamily stand? "My family is my priority. After that come my work and interests,but these are the moments which make life worth living," she says.