Purgatory to Paradise

Discover Purgatory to Paradise, Mahwish Syed's bestselling memoir about cancer, beauty, resilience, and the personal journey that inspired her Design Is Medicine™ philosophy and work exploring how our environments shape well-being.

PURGATORY TO PARADISE: How Cancer Helped Me Design An Authentic Life

"A wonderful, moving book, with insightful comments on everything from medicine to mythology. It is beautifully written about a fascinating life by a courageous and creative woman." -Milton Esterow, former writer for The New York Times and publisher of ArtNews

 

#1 New Release on Amazon in:

Neuropsychology

Health & Spirituality

Paint & Wallcovering

Sacred Sexuality

Women in Islam

Pakistan History

 

What Readers Are Saying

This is something that could only be written by a designer of words, thoughts, and life.
— Candace van Dell
I felt transformed by this book.
— Jessica Aebi
It felt like a journal, a love letter, and a deeply insightful guide to seeing life through fresh eyes.
— Amy Postle
Mahwish’s experience with cancer informs and inspires her vision for environments that support mental and physical well-being.
— Eve Pomerantz
She shows us how anyone can overcome limiting beliefs and societal expectations to create a life full of joy, meaning, and freedom.
— Bob Nickman, Host, The Exploding Human Podcast

The story continues.

Purgatory to Paradise chronicles the journey that transformed my life. Field Notes explores the ideas that continue to emerge from it—where design, beauty, science, and spirit intersect.