Shrenik Shah: 73 Years. 72 Lessons. And One Extraordinary Life

“I turned 73 today 
Survived cancer twice.”

Those were the words shared by Shrenik Shah, and honestly, they hit different. Not because of the number, or the emojis—but because of the weight behind them.

This isn’t just a birthday post. It’s a story of grit, grace, and purpose.

Who Is Shrenik Shah?

If you haven’t heard of Shrenik Shah yet—let me introduce you to a man who’s been through it all and still shows up every day with unwavering positivity and purpose.

A two-time cancer survivor, Shrenik lost his voice to laryngeal cancer in 1997 after a total laryngectomy. With no voice box, he re-learned how to speak using a handheld device called an electrolarynx. But instead of stepping back from life, he stepped up—and became a global motivational speaker. Not just in small rooms, but on TEDx stages, at international conferences, in schools, hospitals, and boardrooms.

In fact, he became the world’s first TEDx speaker with vocal cord cancer, delivering not just one, but five powerful speeches—his fifth TEDx talk was recognized among the top 10 on YouTube in February 2025, amassing over 100,000 views and 1,800+ likes.

Photo of Shrenik Shah from speakerhub 

In an inspiring episode of OncoDailyTV with host Foorquan Hashmi, Shrenik shares his remarkable journey—from silence to the stage. He’s now the first TEDx speaker with vocal cord cancer, with over 9,000 hours of talks behind him. And he’s still going strong—empowering thousands with every word he shares, one vibration at a time.

He Lost His Voice… But Found His Calling

Shrenik didn’t just survive cancer. He transformed through it.

He’s now spoken at over 1,000 events across India and beyond—sharing his story, educating people about cancer, and showing others that life after diagnosis can still be powerful and meaningful.

He often says:

“If I can speak without a voice box, what’s stopping you from using your voice for good?”

His voice may sound different, but trust me, it carries more strength and authenticity than most. He speaks straight from the heart.

72 Lessons for 73 Years

To mark his 72nd birthday, Shrenik shared something really special:
72 lessons he’s learned over 73 years of life, survival, growth, and gratitude.

Some are deep. Some are simple. All of them are real. Here are a few that stood out to me:

• Health is your real wealth.

• Vulnerability is strength.

• You are not your struggles.

• Take risks.

• You can always begin again.

• Say thank you more.

• It’s never too late.

And the full list? It’s like a mini manual on how to live with intention, courage, and kindness. Honestly, bookmark it. Frame it. Share it with someone who needs hope.

Beyond Inspiration—He’s a Guide for Others

Shrenik doesn’t just tell his story—he walks with others through theirs.

He spends time mentoring new cancer patients, especially those who are about to undergo laryngectomy. He helps them understand what life after surgery can look like—and more importantly, that it’s still a life worth living.

He’s also a huge advocate for tobacco cessation, early detection, and emotional healing. He works with NGOs, hospitals, and support groups, offering strength, hope, and practical advice to those navigating cancer.

His story has been featured on BBC, CNN, Brut India, and many more—because it’s not just powerful. It’s universal. It speaks to the human spirit.

73 Years Young and Still Going Strong

Shrenik Shah is living proof that even after you lose everything—your voice, your health, your sense of self—you can rise again.

And not just survive… but truly live.

So today, as we celebrate his 73rd birthday, we’re not just celebrating a number. We’re honoring a man who chose to make every year count. Who continues to show us that setbacks are just setups for comebacks.

Happy Birthday, Shrenik Shah

Thank you for teaching us that:

• You don’t need a perfect voice to make an impact.

• You don’t need to have all the answers to help others.

• And you’re never too old—or too broken—to live with purpose.

Here’s to your journey, your strength, and the thousands of lives you’ve touched along the way.

Keep shining, Shrenik. The world’s better with your voice in it.

And for more powerful stories from the world of cancer care, advocacy, and survivorship—follow OncoDaily. We highlight the voices that truly matter.

Stay inspired. Stay connected.

By: Md Foorquan Hashmi, MD, Sr. Editor, OncoDaily: India Bureau