Shirley Goodwin, Ashish first caregiver.

I would say Ashish and I quickly became friends even though I was his caregiver. Ashish was such an admirable person that it is difficult to find the words to describe him, but I am going to try.

Yes, Ashish had his bad days during his battle with glioblastoma. He felt anger. Disappointment. Sadness. Fear. But what left me in awe and made it easier for me to be the caregiver he needed was his fighting spirit.   Ashish laughed. He had such an infectious laugh that if you were passing by, you would stop and ask what was so funny. He persevered, and his hope was not dashed. Time and time again, he would play Indian music and have fun with his parents. 

He taught me how to be daring in the face of adversity, how to enjoy life, and how to pay attention to the present no matter what.

Ashish looked forward to his physical therapy sessions with Margaret. He looked forward to spending time with Rhea. He looked forward to our sessions of playing Scrabble and doing his physical therapy exercises. And, oh, did Ashish love his coffee. It was something he always looked forward to.

Ashish was an incredible, smart, and vibrant human being. He was taken from us too soon. He will forever be my favorite patient that I took care of.