I organized an event at an Art Gallery in Mumbai to celebrate WHPCD. The aim of the event was to celebrate life, and talk about life and its quality, and how we may make it dignified, free of suffering and filled with quality in the best way that our science and our humanity allows. To paraphrase Dame Cicely Saunders: our shared humanity demands that we deserve no less.
The poets of the day were our own Palliative care specialist colleague from PD Hinduja Hospital, Dr Smriti Khanna, and her husband, Dr Siddharth Warrier a neurologist and digital-health influencer. Both the poets captured the audience with their sensitive, brilliant poems and set the pace for the evening.
Punit Pania is one of the most prolific comedians in the country and he was happy to join us in the celebration with a half an hour stand up special. His stand-up comedy kept the audience in splits, and he navigated sensitive issues like death, dying and elderly care with great humor and sensitivity. This year, I wished to bring a small element of positivity, the grace that people with chronic illnesses and their families bring to us, the inspiration in the day-to-day activities, and above all, to the sheer dedication of all colleagues in this branch.
More strength to all, more smiles, more joy as we celebrate life. I hope to see more of you all at the next celebration!